Charlie Suff is taking over the role of Johnny Carter as the character returns to EastEnders, it has been confirmed.
The son of Linda (Kellie Bright) and the presumed-dead Mick (Danny Dyer) was initially played by Sam Strike from 2013 to 2014 before being recast with Ted Reilly in 2016.
Reilly left the show in January 2018 as part of a storyline that saw Johnny move to Manchester to work as a lawyer, but the character will now be moving back to Walford in the new year.
"I'm so delighted to be joining such an iconic programme," said Suff, who has previously starred in Grantchester. "EastEnders was always on at my house when I was growing up.
"Johnny is a complex character who has been through so much, which I can't wait to explore. I've found EastEnders to be the most kind and loving space to work in, and I already feel like one of the family."
Exec producer Chris Clenshaw added: "I'm delighted to welcome Charlie Suff to the role of Johnny Carter. Although we haven't seen Johnny on the Square in almost five years, his character remains linked to the show and its most iconic venue, The Queen Vic.
"Since his short time away, the Carter family dynamics have changed significantly, and it's safe to say that Johnny will be returning to a very different Walford than the one he left."
EastEnders continues Mondays to Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One and from 6am on iPlayer.
Neil Wilkes
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