Chris Simmons will make his ‘Hollyoaks’ debut on Tuesday (20.02.19).
The 44-year-old star – who has starred in the likes of ‘The Bill’ and ‘Casualty’ – will play brand new character Stuart Sumner, and his first appearance will be broadcast toight on E4.
The soap’s official Twitter account confirmed the news, and said: "New cast member alert! We’re pleased to announce that @chrissimmons38 will be joining the #Hollyoaks family as Stuart!
"Make sure you give Chris a warm welcome, and tune in this week to watch his first scenes!"
It’s said Stuart will be connected to The Teahouse – which used to be known as Esther’s Magic Bean – and he could cross paths with the likes of Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson).
Chris said: "I’m delighted to join the cast of ‘Hollyoaks’. For me to play Stuart is a real challenge that I relish.
"As an actor you are always looking for something to challenge and stretch you; this character certainly does that…"
The actor – who has appeared in shows such as ‘Holby City’ and ‘Doctors’ is still best remembered for playing the role of DC Mickey Webb in ‘The Bill’ from 1998 until the show’s finale in 2010.
His new role could also see him reunited with former co-star Moya Brady, who appeared as F.D.O. Roberta Cryer in the police drama and can now be seen as Breda McQueen in ‘Hollyoaks’ after joining the cast last year.
He may also be familiar to soap fans, having made guest appearances in ‘EastEnders’ eight years ago as Kat Moon’s (Jessie Wallace) love interest Mark Garland.
Hollyoaks confirms Chris Simmons has joined cast as Stuart Sumner
