'This Life' star Steve John Shepherd is joining 'EastEnders' as a relative of an Albert Square resident.
Warning: spoiler alert!
Shepherd will play Michael Moon, the cousin of Alfie Moon (Shane Richie).
Announcing his arrival, the BBC said: "Michael Moon is a cheeky chap with a silver tongue who loves a lot of female attention - much like his older cousin Alfie.
"However, Michael has a slightly more manipulative streak and a competitive nature which means he doesn’t think twice about screwing people over - even those he loves.
"Michael loves to live life dangerously, taking risks, and can be as ruthless as he is charming."
Actor Shepherd, who played Jo in 'This Life', said: "I can vividly remember watching the first ever episode of 'EastEnders' and I'm very excited to be joining such a fantastic and iconic programme.
"Michael Moon will be an exciting character to play - on the surface he's a loveable, cheeky chappy but underneath he has hidden depths which will be exciting to explore."
The soap's executive producer, Bryan Kirkwood, said: "I've been a fan of Steve John Shepherd's work for years. He's a fantastic signing for 'EastEnders', an exciting addition to the Moon family, and is set to cause a big splash in Albert Square from the moment he arrives."
Alfie and wife Kat (Jessie Wallace) return to Albert Square in September.
