EastEnders fans have been introduced to Albert Square's newest family, the Ahmeds, with actors Indira Joshi and Madhav Sharma set to make their Walford debuts as Masood's "feisty relatives" Auntie Mariam and Uncle Arshad in the New Year.
Following the news that actor Nitin Ganatra would be reprising his role as Masood, the BBC has now revealed the storyline which will see Auntie Mariam and Uncle Arshad join him in E20.
The couple, who have lived in London most of their lives, need a bigger home so they can continue fostering and decide to rent Masood's house.
"Little do they know what awaits them when they set foot in Albert Square," says the BBC, adding that the new arrivals "immediately find themselves caught up in the middle of other people's drama".
Actress Joshi is best known for her role in The Kumars at No 42, while Sharma's credits include Casualty and Coronation Street. They have already begun filming as Auntie Mariam and Uncle Arshad on EastEnders.
"We've always known that Masood came from a big family, and the time has now come to reveal a few more of them, of which Mariam and Arshad are just the first," said EastEnders Executive Consultant John Yorke.
"Nitin has been invaluable to the show since he and the Masoods first rolled up in Albert Square. We're really excited to bring in the next generation of the family, for some incredibly challenging, fun and exciting stories ahead."
EastEnders airs on RTÉ One and BBC One on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and is available to watch on the RTÉ Player.
