After a five-year absence from the soap, television newcomer Dayle Hudson becomes the seventh actor to take on the role, following Ben Hardy's exit in 2015.
After five years away from Albert Square, there's a surprise heading for the Beale's in 2020 as Peter Beale returns to Walford.
During his previous time in Walford, Peter was at the centre of numerous storylines; from his turbulent love life on the Square and his fractious relationship with his dad, Ian, to the death of his twin sister, Lucy.
In 2014, he was at the heart of the ‘Who Killed Lucy?’ storyline, determined to uncover the events that led to his sister’s demise. Following a nearly year-long investigation and in a special week of unmissable live episodes to mark EastEnders’ 30th Anniversary, the killer was revealed as Peter’s younger half-brother, Bobby.
Struggling to cope with the news, Peter decided to leave Walford and join his half-brother, Steven, for a new a life in New Zealand with fiancé Lauren Branning in tow.
As Peter returns to Walford, what brings him back to Albert Square after all these years?
Speaking about taking on the role, Dayle said "I am really grateful and excited to have the opportunity to work on such an institution of British television, alongside some incredible actors. Peter has been away for some time so I can’t wait to find out what he’s been up to and I’m very excited to see what the future holds for him.”
And EastEnders' Executive Producer, Jon Sen added "As soon as I met Dayle, I knew he’d be the one to bring Peter Beale back to Walford. Peter’s a young man with a big heart but a bruised soul and Dayle’s a talented actor who captures his complexity perfectly. I welcome him to the company and can’t wait to start working with him.”
EastEnders continues Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on BBC One