Danny Dyer and Kellie Bright to join EastEnders

The Queen Vic is under new management this Christmas as Shirley Carter's brother Mick and his family move to Albert Square, becoming the first family to arrive and immediately take over The Queen Victoria since EastEnders began.

Mick (Danny Dyer) is the baby of the Carter siblings. He has always adored older sister Shirley (Linda Henry) who brought him and sister Tina (Luisa Bradshaw-White) up when their mother walked out on them as children. But Mick and Shirley have been estranged for years due to animosity between Shirley and Mick's wife, Linda.

Mick loves his missus, his kids, his dog, the monarchy, a bit of Land of Hope and Glory. He's a bloke's bloke who, having spent most of his life surrounded by women, is actually a big softie. He thinks nothing of throwing on Linda's pink dressing gown and cooking breakfast for the family in the morning before getting the beer barrels ready downstairs.

Linda (Kellie Bright) is the love of Mick’s life and they have been together since they were teenagers. Linda has been a barmaid for most of her life – but above everything, sees herself as a mum. She’s the first to admit she wasn't blessed with brains but her fluffy candyfloss exterior belies an inner steel. A lioness who will fight tooth and nail for her brood, Linda can take this to extremes - and she can be more 'smother' than 'mother'.

Executive Producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins said: “I’m so excited to have actors of Danny and Kellie’s calibre joining what is an already strong and talented company of actors. 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…”

Speaking of joining EastEnders, Danny said: “I'm so excited about starting a new chapter in my career and I cannot wait to become part of the East End family.”

Kellie 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.”

Danny Dyer began his career at the age of 16 when he appeared in Prime Suspect 3, alongside Helen Mirren. Since then Danny has appeared in numerous films, television programmes and theatre roles.

Kellie Bright is best known for her roles in The Upper Hand, Ali G Indahouse and Rock And Chips.