Office star becomes an EastEnder
The actor who played Lee in The Office is joining EastEnders, it was announced today.
Joel Beckett - best known to viewers as Dawn's domineering boyfriend in the comedy series - will play Alfie Moon's cousin Jake.
Soap bosses reckon he will become Albert Square's newest heart-throb.
Jake will arrive in Walford on New Year's Eve accompanied by his brother, who has yet to be cast.
An EastEnders spokesman said: "The gorgeous brothers are set to ruffle feathers all around Albert Square and challenge the alpha males of Walford.
"Den and Dennis need to watch out - there's a new dynamic duo coming to town."
Beckett found fame as warehouse worker Lee in The Office and has had bit parts in Holby City and Band of Brothers.
He starts filming next week and said of his new role: "I've watched the programme since the beginning and I'm very excited to be joining such a successful television institution.
"I found out that I got the part while I was on holiday in Turkey. It took a while to sink in but I had a few beers to celebrate that night. I can't wait to start work."
The actor has signed an initial one-year contract but it could be extended if he proves a hit with viewers.
Beckett is the first signing by new EastEnders boss Kathleen Hutchinson.
Last week she axed the boring Ferreira family in a bid to end the BBC soap's ratings slump.
