'Casualty' has confirmed Nigel Harman is joining as new clinical lead Max Cristie.
Nigel Harman is officially joining Casualty
The former 'EastEnders' star - who is known to soap fans from his role as Sharon Watts' lover Dennis Rickman in the early 2000s - has already started filming on the BBC One continuing drama and his first appearance will air later this month.
He said: "I'm honoured and grateful to be joining the cast of 'Casualty'.
"Many pals have donned the famous scrubs over the years and had a ball, so for me it was an easy decision.
"With Max the viewers can expect a character who leads with his heart and not always his head.
"Never afraid to get in a scrape or two, yet loyal to the end even if it means putting himself in danger."
His new character is said to be full of confidence when he arrives, but he is put on the back foot straight away when he comes face to face with Dylan Keogh.
It will emerge that the pair have a long history going back to medical school, but the newcomer doens't have time to process their unexepcted reunion when he finds himself in a life or death case.
In a statement, Jon Sen - Executive Producer for BBC Studios - added: "We are thrilled to be welcoming Nigel to the cast of 'Casualty'. "When we conceived the character of Max we knew we needed an actor with craft, charm and charisma and we approached Nigel knowing he'd be the perfect choice.
"We were over the moon when he agreed to play the role and from what we've seen so far, Nigel's creating an iconic character who is set to stir things up within the Emergency Department. We can't wait for the audience to meet Max."
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