Hollywood star Patrick Bergin arrives in Albert Square next week, playing baddie Aidan Joseph Patrick Maguire.
Aidan is an old prison mate of Phil Mitchell’s, and is described by the Enders bosses as “a charismatic old-school villain”.
His arrival is set to trigger a huge storyline for Phil just in time for Christmas.
Next week, Phil is delighted to see his old pal rock up in the Square out of the blue.
Aidan introduces himself to Sharon, and then slopes off again leaving Phil wondering what he was up to.
He soon gets a clue, though, when he spots Aidan chatting to former villain turned police informer Vincent Hubbard.
Read more: Strictly’s Giovanni lashes out at dance-off criticism
Later in the week, Phil bumps into Aidan again and quizzes him about what he’s planning. Aidan explains he needs some help with a job – from Vincent.
Poor Phil is left feeling very put out – aww!
Predictably, Phil is desperate to get in on the action – that whole going straight thing didn’t last long, eh?
Read more: Emmerdale spoiler – Tom’s huge secret is exposed!
He corners Aidan and asks to be let in. But things get heated when Vincent arrives. Will Phil join the crook’s plan?
And will Vincent be tempted to go back to the dark side after spending so many months as a family man to wife Kim and daughter Pearl?
“EastEnders deserves the very best and in Patrick we are privileged to have a truly great actor join the show,” said creative director John Yorke of Bergin’s signing.
“It’s a huge honour to have him on board.”