‘EastEnders’ has cast its first transgender character.
Riley Carter Millington, 21, will join the BBC One soap as Kyle this month after his character wanders into Walford and becomes embroiled in one of the show’s biggest storylines.
Speaking of his forthcoming role, Riley said: "I am extremely excited to be joining ‘EastEnders.’
His appearance will be the first time a transgender actor has portrayed a transgender character in UK soap history.
He added: "I can honestly say that I have now fulfilled my two biggest dreams – to be living my life as a man and to be an actor. I cannot wait to really get stuck in with filming and I look forward to seeing what is in store for my character."
Kyle, who is set to bound onto the scene with his own stock of secrets, will make a brief appearance on Albert Square before permanently returning at the end of the year.
Meanwhile, executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins announced earlier this year he was planning to weave a transgender character into the programme as he likes to keep the storylines relevant to ever-changing society.
He explained: "’EastEnders’ has always led the way in changing audience’s perceptions. This isn’t about tokenism."
He added: "The story team have worked with Riley to create a character who is fresh and relatable."
EastEnders cast its first transgender character
