Danny Dyers signed up to 'EastEnders' for the money.
The 36-year-old actor admitted his money problems - his film company went bust following a £25,000 tax bill - helped make up his mind about appearing in the soap, along with his recent disappointing roles on the big screen.
He told The Sun newspaper: "I felt it was the right time for me. I know I've made a few rubbish films and had a bit of bad luck. So I really needed a regular wage coming in."
It was recently announced he will star as the new landlord of the Queen Vic after landing the role of "blokes' bloke" Mick Carter, the brother of Shirley Carter (Linda Henry), in the BBC One soap.
Despite joining at a time when ratings need to improve, Danny has insisted he isn't "nervous" ahead of his Albert Square debut.
He said: "I'm not nervous about it at all. I'm excited. I can't wait for everyone to see me in the Vic."
The show's executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins was placed in charge of saving the programme after a fall in viewers, and he previously opened up about being "excited" for Danny and Kellie Bright - who will play his way Linda - to be joining the team.
He had commented: "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 twenty years, Mick and Linda have a good marriage and an easy shorthand with each other - but can also still fight like teenagers."
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