David Essex as Eddie Moon

[alan45]

SEVENTIES star David Essex is joining EastEnders as Shane Richie's estranged uncle.
The singer and actor, 63, will play cheeky charmer Eddie Moon - who is Alfie Moon's (Richie) uncle and Michael Moon's (Steve John Shepherd) father.

Single dad Eddie walks into Albert Square later this year with his kids - who are yet to be cast - in tow. David, who was born in Plaistow, East London, was due to join the BBC1 soap in 2005 as Honey Mitchell's dad - but had to pull out due to touring commitments.

But after landing this new role, the Hold Me Close star said: "Being an EastEnder myself, I'm really excited to be joining the Square.

"Eddie's a great character and I can't wait to get to grips with the role and work with such a fantastic cast.

"I'm really pleased that I've been able to make filming work around my tour dates this time."

Eddie is set to be a hit with Walford's residents - but he is hiding a past he wants to forget as he tries to reunite with son Michael.

A source revealed: "Eddie's arrival will shake things up for Michael and Alfie.

"One big bombshell waiting to explode is the revelation Michael is Tommy's (Alfie's wife Kat's son) dad." EastEnders' bosses believe housewives' favourite David - who has had 23 top 30 singles in the UK - is a "brilliant signing".

Executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "He is a unique talent with a legion of fans and he will bring warmth and charisma.

"His arrival brings a new generation of the Moon family to Walford."
(c) The Sun

[moonstorm]

I had such a crush on him when I was young! He is a good actor so hopefully they will make good use of him.

[Siobhan]

Was he not suppose to join before as Honey's dad?? and backed out due to work or something??

Moonie.. I had a major crush on him too in my younger days

[Perdita]

Yes, Siobhan, you are right, he was supposed to play Honey's dad but was on tour at the time. Having lost interest in EE recently, I shall start to take more interest again once he arrives

[tammyy2j]

I could see him as a Moon

[Siobhan]

I could see him as a Moon

So would he be playing Michael's dad??? Tommy's grandfather?? maybe a new love interest for Mo!! mmmm

[Perdita]

So would he be playing Michael's dad??? Tommy's grandfather?? maybe a new love interest for Mo!! mmmm

Yes, he is meant to be Michael's dad and therefore Tommy's grandad

[moonstorm]

Was he not suppose to join before as Honey's dad?? and backed out due to work or something??

Moonie.. I had a major crush on him too in my younger days

Hey we have good taste - what can I say lol.

I had forgotten he was meant to play Honey's Dad but I think he is going to be better as a Moon. Don't see him and Mo together but with EE you never know.......

[Siobhan]

Well Peggy is gone and you know if she was still there they would have hooked the two of them up.. it is always her getting the old guys...maybe Mo can be lucky this time and we finally get to see Fat Elvis fighting for her

[Chloe O'brien]

Now how long do you think the Spencer returning rumour will start up again. This could be an excuse to bring him back.