Danny Dyer will be offered a contract extension by new ‘EastEnders’ boss John Yorke.
The producer – who was previously in charge of the show from 1999 to 2002 – has stepped in as creative director to replace departing showrunner Sean O’Connor, who is leaving after just a year at the helm of the soap, and has met with BBC chiefs to outline his plans to shake up the programme.
As well as wanting to keep Danny, who plays Queen Vic landlord Mick Carter, John is also keen to give Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell) more big storylines and is hoping to bring back Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie as Kat and Alfie Moon.
John was responsible for introducing Kat and the rest of the Slater family to Walford and so will be keen for them to take centre stage if possible.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "He has a soft spot for the Slater family, so don’t be surprised if they figure prominently in his plans.
"His skill is getting an episode to build to a brilliant cliff-hanger which has been lost recently. He will be looking for real high-impact stories."
Meanwhile, stage star George Maguire – who is best known for his portrayal of The Kinks’ guitarist Dave Davies in musical ‘Sunny Afternoon’ – has joined the soap for a guest stint and has already begun filming his scenes.
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "George will join the soap for a few episodes early in July."
Another source said: "Everyone at ‘EastEnders’ is very excited about George joining the cast. He is hugely talented and well-respected in the West End so it’s a real coup to have signed him.
"They are hoping that his character is a real hit with fans."
Danny Dyer to get new EastEnders deal
