EastEnders star Nigel Harman joins cast of Casualty

Nigel Harman has joined the cast of ‘Casualty’ for a new storyline.

The 49-year-old actor - who is known for having starred as Dennis Rickman on BBC soap opera 'EastEnders' between 2003 and 2005 - has reportedly signed a one-year contract and will take on the role of “lovable rogue” Max on the BBC medical drama.

A TV insider told the Daily Star: “Nigel has signed a one-year contract with the show. It’s really exciting. Producers are thrilled to have such a big name joining the cast.

“Max is really going to ruffle feathers. He is a loveable rogue who isn’t afraid to say what he thinks. The writers have got some really big storylines planned for this character. He’s going to be at the centre of the action.”

‘Casualty’ bosses are said to be hoping the addition of Nigel will boost shows ratings.

Nigel will be joining a cast of fellow ‘EastEnders’ alums including Charles Venn and Shaheen Jafaregholi but his other notable roles include ‘Downton Abbey’, ‘Hotel Babylon’ and ‘Mount Pleasant’.

In a previous interview on ITV’s ‘Loose Women’ Nigel discussed his time on ‘EastEnders’, after his character was embroiled an affair with adopted sister Sharon Watts - played by Letitia Dean.

Host Ruth Langsford said: “The storyline was quite shocking at the time, wasn’t it? You and Sharon…”

Nigel replied: “I think so, I think they worked it out that… I can’t really remember, but yes she was my adopted sister so I think legally it’s OK but we got married and all of that but – were we having a baby? Was she pregnant then?”