London's Burning actor Ross Boatman has joined EastEnders as part of a storyline involving Bobby Beale (Clay Milner Russell).
The 57-year-old will play new character Harvey Monroe, the "traditional, fiercely protective" father of Dana (Barbara Smith), who has recently begun dating Bobby.
"Some actors long for all the glamour of the Hollywood hills. Others dream about the bright lights of London's West End. All I ever wanted was jellied eels, Albert Square and cheeky pint at The Queen Vic," said Boatman.
"Words can hardly express how happy and excited I am to be here at last. I absolutely love the show and can't wait to get started. I feel truly blessed."
EastEnders exec producer Jon Sen added: "We can't wait for Ross to join us in Albert Square as Harvey.
"He's perfect to play the affable father to Dana who's over the moon his daughter's found a match in Bobby but secrets aren't likely to stay hidden on the Square so Bobby's attempts at re-invention may well be futile.
"We're looking forward to Harvey's arrival, he'll certainly shake up the Beale family dynamics."
Boatman's first scenes will air later this summer.
Neil Wilkes
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