EastEnders have announced that Ross Boatman will be joining the BBC soap playing the role of Dana's dad Harvey Monroe.
Dana (Barbara Smith) already has a connection to Walford with Bobby Beale (Clay Milner Russell) and the London’s Burning star will arrive in Walford this summer.
Harvey has cared for Dana on his own and is a real family man who’s proud to have been raised in Bow and even prouder to be a dad.
Harvey is traditional, fiercely protective and will do anything to keep Dana safe, but what will they mean for Bobby?
EastEnders viewers have seen Bobby embellishing the truth on his dates with Dana and as things get more serious between the new couple, will Harvey find the new Bobby as impressive?
Ross, 57, is RADA trained and well-known for his role in London’s Burning as firefighter Kevin Medhurst.
His other roles include parts in The Bill, Holby City, Casualty, Mum and most recently Grantchester.
Speaking about his arrival in Albert Square, Ross said: "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.
"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' Executive 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."
EastEnders airs Mondays and Fridays at 8pm, and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One.
