Rose Ayling-Ellis is set for a starring role in a new BBC drama.
Rose Ayling-Ellis to star in new BBC drama
The 'EastEnders' actress - who is currently competing on 'Strictly Come Dancing' - has reportedly been approached by BBC bosses to be their first ever deaf lead in a drama.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Rose has already shattered so many stereotypes during her time on 'Strictly' and execs will be keen to see that continue once the show has ended.
“Although she is committed for the foreseeable future to 'EastEnders', that doesn’t mean that she won’t be looking at her longer term prospects.
“Especially as she’s seen her profile soar as a result of sailing into the final.
“And the BBC will be keen to ensure that she takes her next step with the corporation, rather than with another broadcaster who could be keen to sign her up.”
Rose, 27, is set to return to her role playing Frankie Lewis, a friend of Ben Mitchell, in 'EastEnders' but show bosses are keen to capitalise on her popularity after she wowed viewers and the judges on 'Strictly'.
Meanwhile, Rose and her professional partner Giovanni Pernice will dance their Couple's Choice again in the Strictly Come Dancing final this weekend.
The couple will repeat their week eight routine to 'Symphony' by Clean Bandit ft. Zara Larsson - which featured a silent sequence in recognition of the fact the 'EastEnders' actress is deaf - when they bid for the Glitterball Trophy on Saturday (17.12.21) and admitted there was never any doubt in which of their favourites they would perform again.
Giovanni said: "I think for us it was such a big moment, so it’d be weird for us not to do it again.
“Obviously the silent moment was so powerful and because this got so much attention, Rose kept saying that the dance changed her life and lots of people’s lives so it’s just fair to do it again.”
And the professional hopes their Showdance will be a "celebration" of his and Rose's bond.
He told reporters: “It’s a celebration of me and Rose and our relationship together. In a sense of we found this beautiful friendship and that’s what we want to celebrate on Saturday night!”