EastEnders: Danny Dyer to play new Queen Vic landlord

EastEnders bosses have revealed Danny Dyer has been cast as the new landlord of the Queen Vic.

Dyer has landed the role of Shirley Carter’s brother Mick, who will move to Walford with his family at the end of the year and immediately take over at The Vic after it goes up for sale.

Mick is the youngest of the Carter siblings but although he has always adored his sister Shirley, they have been estranged for years due to animosity between her and Linda.

Billed as a “bloke’s bloke”, Mick loves his wife, children and dog – and viewers will soon learn that he is a “big softie” at heart.

“I’m so excited about starting a new chapter in my career and I cannot wait to become part of the East End family,” said Dyer said.

Linda, meanwhile, has been with Mick since they were teenagers and she has been a barmaid for most of her life.

Kellie Bright, who plays Mick’s wife, added: “I’m very excited about joining the show. Not only am I looking forward to working with Danny, but becoming landlady of The Vic is a real honour.”

“I’m so excited to have actors of Danny and Kellie’s calibre joining what is an already strong and talented company of actors,” said EastEnders’ executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins.

Having been together over 20 years, Mick and Linda have a good marriage and an easy shorthand with each other – but can also still fight like teenagers.

“They will laugh, cry, argue and make up – much to the embarrassment of their children and the delight of Albert Square’s residents. Mick and Linda still love each other, no matter what life throws at them. And moving from Watford to Walford, life’s about to throw them a few curve balls…”