Picture: David Essex Celebrities outside the RTE Studios for 'The Late Late Show' Dublin, Ireland - 04.05.12.
Veteran singer David Essex is celebrating after landing a role in British soap opera Eastenders - five years after his busy schedule stopped him from accepting a part.
The Rock On hitmaker was due to appear in the long-running London-based series in 2006, but he had to drop out when filming clashed with his music commitments.
He's now signed on to play Eddie Moon, the uncle of beloved character Alfie Moon, played by Shane Richie.
Essex, who was born in the east end of the U.K. capital, says, "Being an East Ender myself, I'm really excited to be joining the Square. Eddie Moon is a great character.
"I can't wait to get to grips with the role and work with such a fantastic cast. I'm really pleased that I've been able to make filming work around my tour dates this time."
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