EastEnders has cast a former Coronation Street star, with the actor admitting it's “an absolute doof doof moment”. Later this summer, Christopher Colquhoun makes his Walford debut as Darnell Larson Jr, Denise Fox’s (Diane Parish) half-brother - who she never knew existed.
Fox-Trueman family reunion
As the Fox-Trueman family reach out and come face-to-face with Darnell, they are also introduced to his daughter, Grace, played by Krysstina Frempong (Too Much, Essex Girls). Their introduction is far from straightforward, and for Darnell, what begins as an unexpected family reunion soon takes on a different significance when he learns of Denise's cancer diagnosis and her ongoing treatment.
Talking about joining the soap, Christopher said: “I am thrilled to be finally moving to Walford after all these years, and the welcome I’ve received has been phenomenal. Hearing I’d got the role was an absolute doof doof moment for me… hopefully there’ll be plenty more of those to come!”
From Casualty to Walford
Viewers will recognise Christopher Colquhoun as Simon Kaminski in the BBC drama series Casualty, from 2002 to 2004. He also appeared in Holby City in this role. His other TV credits include The Bill, award-winning comedy drama series Fleabag and from 2017 to 2020, he played Special Agent Derek Crown in the Amazon Prime TV series Absentia.
Christopher also starred in rival soap Coronation Street from 2009 to 2010, playing Matt Davis who was engaged to Sunita Alahan (Shobna Gulati) following her divorce from ex-husband Dev (Jimmi Harkishin).
New faces in Albert Square
Meanwhile, Krysstina added: “I am extremely excited to be joining EastEnders! I have watched the show for as long as I can remember and have such vivid memories of gathering around the TV with my family, especially at Christmas, to watch all the drama unfolding on the Square, so it feels pretty surreal to now be a part of the action!
“I’m really looking forward to working with, and learning from my new colleagues, whom I’ve long admired, and hope audiences enjoy getting to know Grace and all the complexities she’ll bring to their screens!”
Executive Producer Ben Wadey also said: “Kim’s discovery uncovers a new branch of the Fox-Trueman family, and we're excited to introduce viewers to new members of their extended family. It's been great to delve into this wider family network, and we're delighted to welcome Christopher and Krysstina to the cast as we bring two new faces to Walford.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.
