'EastEnders' expands Baker family with three new characters

EastEnders is set to welcome three new members of the Baker clan to Albert Square this summer - with show bosses teasing they are just the start of an influx of new stars.

The BBC One soap has announced that three characters are joining the series - an estranged brother and two nephews for Mitch Baker, played by Roger Griffiths.

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Starring as Mitch's older brother Avery will be musician and actor Omar Lye-Fook MBE, best known for the soul hit 'There's Nothing Like This'.

Executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: "The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year - so watch this space…”

Avery's sons Felix and Finlay will be played by Matthew Morrison and Ashley Byam, and although Mitch loves his nephews, he hasn't spoken to his brother in years - so he will be determined to find out what secret Avery is hiding that has brought him to Walford.

Lye-Fook said: “I’ve been watching EastEnders since I was at school so it’s such a surreal experience to now be part of the show. I’m having so much fun and it’s an honour to be working alongside this incredible cast.”

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Avery is described as always being at the centre of trouble, while Felix throws himself into life in his new home - but ruffles a few feathers with his unflinching honesty.

Meanwhile, eldest son Finlay is not actually Avery's biological son but has been brought up by him since birth, and has so far sailed through life with his cheeky charm which he's shocked to find doesn't work quite so well in Albert Square.

Morrison, who plays Felix, said: “It's an honour to be a part of such a legendary show that I grew up watching. It hasn't quite sunk in yet, and I don't think it ever will. I'm having a ball getting to grips with Felix and cannot wait for you all to meet him!”

Byam, who plays Finlay, added: "I'm very excited to be joining the Square. Like many people I grew up with EastEnders; it was almost like an unspoken family tradition. My mum and I sat there together watching so many incredible and iconic storylines.

"So to now be joining this classic British TV drama is an honour, and I'm truly grateful. I can't wait for everyone to meet Finlay and see what lies ahead for him."

The trio have already begun filming and will first be seen on screen later this summer.

Clenshaw continued: “The Baker family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square. Felix and Finlay are two very different firecrackers and, yes, these brothers fall out, take the mick and challenge each other, but none of that compares to their unswerving love and loyalty they have for one another.

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"They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving.

"Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we’re excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life."

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