Derek Branning to make EastEnders Return

EastEnders bosses have confirmed the casting of Jamie Foreman as eldest Branning brother, Derek.

Foreman - whose CV lists an array of shady characters and villains from British drama and films, such as Layer Cake, Hustle, and Roman Polanski’s Oliver Twist - will make his screen debut this winter.

Of the new casting, executive producer Bryan Kirkwood said, ‘Loyal EastEnders viewers may know that the fearsome Derek Branning, eldest son of Jim, has been a shadowy presence looming over the rest of the family for years. So it's a real coup to sign Jamie Foreman to play the biggest, baddest Branning brother.’

‘Jamie has an incredible acting pedigree, having starred in some of the best British movies of recent times, and we can't wait for him to bring his unique talents to Walford.’

Derek Branning previously appeared on screen briefly back in 1996, with Terence Beesley in the role, and caused a stir with his racist attitude and drunken behaviour.

Bosses tease that viewers will be left wondering whether the Branning brother is the same dangerous and destructive man he used to be - and whether his family will welcome him back into the fold.

It’s also reported that Derek quickly seizes the opportunity to rule the roost among his family again - but he also has a bigger ambition as he strives to become King of the Square.

Speaking of his role, Foreman said he was ‘hugely excited’ to be joining the show, adding: ‘EastEnders is full of fantastic actors so it is a role I couldn't refuse. The Brannings are such a great family to be joining and I am extremely interested to see how Derek is going to fit in.’

Watch this clip of Derek Branning, back in 1996: