Patrick Bergin joins EastEnders

Patrick Bergin has joined the cast of \'EastEnders\'.

The 66-year-old actor - known for his role in the 1991 film \'Sleeping with the Enemy\' - is "delighted" to be joining the long-running soap as "charismatic old-school villain" Aidan Maguire, a prison friend of Phil Mitchell\'s (Steve McFadden), and he can\'t wait to get stuck into filming this month - with his scenes set to air towards the end of the year.

He said: "It is an iconic show that has the ability to shape the way people think, whilst also telling big explosive stories that keep the audience gripped. I am really looking forward to seeing what they have in store for Aidan as it\'s bound to be dramatic."

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Although not much is known about Patrick\'s stint in the show, his character will send shock waves through Walford around Christmas when he rocks up at Phil\'s doorstep and the pair embark on a series of shady ventures involving Mick Carter (Danny Dyer).

The show\'s executive producer John Yorke said: "\'EastEnders\' deserves the very best and in Patrick we are absolutely privileged to have a truly great actor join the show.

"It\'s a huge honour to have him on board, where he\'ll be working hand in hand with Phil Mitchell and Mick Carter to carry a truly explosive storyline for Christmas and New Year. We can\'t wait to get started."

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But as one famous face joins the programme, two fan favourites are set to leave as Lorna Fitzgerald and Jacqueline Jossa - who play sisters Abi and Lauren Branning - are set to receive explosive exits as part of the show\'s festive plots.

A source said recently: "He [John] has form for creating huge plots, so they\'re in safe hands over their departure. It will be one of the biggest on-screen moments of the year.

"Sometimes a great storyline comes at the cost of losing some characters. The cast will be sorry to see them go."