EastEnders confirms Peter Beale return

Peter Beale is returning to EastEnders this summer with Ben Hardy taking over the role.

“I’m really excited to be joining the fantastic cast of EastEnders – a show which my family have watched for years. I can’t wait to step into the shoes of a character with so much history and am looking forward to getting stuck in.” – Ben Hardy

Viewers last saw Ian Beale’s son in 2010 when he left Walford to stay with his twin sister Lucy in Devon. Whilst there he has enjoyed a life of sun, sea and surf, but his relationship with Lucy suffered when he started dating her best friend.

Bosses have teased that the new look Peter is more confident than previously and is going to prove a hit with the ladies.

“Ben’s a wonderful addition to the EastEnders cast and I am sure he will be popular with the audience. Having Peter back in the Beale fold helps cement the next generation of the Beale clan, a family who exist at the true heart of the show.” – Lorraine Newman, Executive Producer

Ian (Adam Woodyatt) and Cindy’s (Michelle Collins) twins have been a part of EastEnders storylines since they were born in 1993. Both appeared through to 2010 when they were written out of the saga separately though in quick succession, both ultimately ending up in Devon with Cindy’s family. Lucy returned to screens in 2012.

Peter was formerly played by Thomas Law between 2006-2010, James Martin from 2004-2006, Joseph Shade from 1998 until 2004 and, in pre-school incarnations, by Alex Stevens and Francis Brittin-Snell.

Law’s Peter had teenage romances with Lauren Branning (Madeline Duggan) and Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty), but the character has largely played a supporting role to date.

“Ian’s wonderful relationship with Denise and the inclusion of Lucy, Peter and Bobby in the household will reinvigorate the clan with vibrancy and energy. I am really looking forward to seeing them all together on screen.” – Lorraine Newman, Executive Producer

Peter will be back on screens in July the beeb say.