Phil Mitchell will be getting a new chum (let's face it, he could do with one!) when Hollywood actor, Patrick Bergin, joins the cast of EastEnders as ex-con, Aidan Maguire for an explosive Christmas storyline
If anyone could do with a mate, it's Phil. With his brother Grant long-gone the resident Mitchell is in need of a pal to help him prop up the bar of the Queen Vic and have a good old moan over..er, a nice glass of orange juice.
Well he's in luck because the BBC have announced that Hollywood star, Patrick Bergin, is to join the cast playing an old mucker of Phil's called Aidan Joesph Patrick Maguire. (Get him and his two middle names!) And even better news, Aidan's arrival will kickstart a huge storyline involving Mick and Phil that will explode this Christmas!
Patrick, most famous for starring in blockbuster Sleeping with the Enemy as well as Dracula and Robin Hood, will begin filming later this month as Aidan, who was in prison with Phil in 2005.
The two men formed a strong friendship while residing at Her Maj's pleasure and although they haven't been in touch for years it's just like the old times when Aidan rocks up on Phil's doorstep. Our insider said, "The old bond is instantly reignited as well as Phil's passion for dabbling in things that aren't strictly legit." Uh oh. Sharon is going to be over the moon about this latest arrival!
Described as,"High status, enigmatic and full of charm", Aidan makes an immediate impression in Walford which is good news, we already like the sound of him! He can stay.
Speaking about his new role, Patrick, who will be on screen later in the year, said, "I am delighted to be joining EastEnders as I have watched and admired it since the days of Dirty Den. It's an iconic show...I'm really looking forward to seeing what they have in store for Aidan as it's bound to be dramatic."
New Enders boss, John Yorke, who has recently taken over the helm said, “EastEnders deserves the very best and in Patrick we are absolutely privileged to have a truly great actor join the show. It’s a huge honour to have him on board, where he’ll be working hand in hand with Phil Mitchell and Mick Carter to carry a truly explosive storyline for Christmas and New Year. We can’t wait to get started.”
Ooh, we're intrigued, with Mick and Phil involved there's bound to be some juicy fallout. Could Aidan's arrival have anything to do with the departure of Lauren and Abi who will be bowing out of Walford in dramatic fashion at the end of this year? We'll have to wait and see...
What capers do you think Phil will get up to with his old prison buddy? Which other old friends of Phil's would you like to see back in Albert Square? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter
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