EastEnders’ Baker family set to expand as Mitch’s brother and nephews arrive in Albert Square

There’s a busy summer in store for Mitch (Roger Griffiths) when his estranged brother and two nephews turn up in Albert Square.

Musician and actor Omar Lye-Fook, MBE has taken on the role of Avery Baker, the charming older brother of Mitch. The Beeb note that the newcomer is prone to causing trouble and will ’cause heads to turn’ upon his arrival in Walford.

On taking on the role as Avery, Omar said:

“I’ve been watching EastEnders since I was at school so it’s such a surreal experience to now be part of the show. I’m having so much fun and it’s an honour to be working alongside this incredible cast.”

Avery will be joined by his two sons, Felix and Finlay, who will be played by Matthew Morrison (Felix) and Ashley Byam (Finlay).

The youngest of the two, larger than life Felix has been tipped to ‘stir up drama’ in the Square with his ‘quick-wit and frank honesty’.

Matthew, who will play Felix, said:

“It’s an honour to be a part of such a legendary show that I grew up watching. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet, and I don’t think it ever will. I’m having a ball getting to grips with Felix and cannot wait for you all to meet him!”

Older half-brother Finlay has a different biological dad but was raised by Avery from an early age. His ‘cheeky charm’ has held him in good stead so far but he is set to face a wake-up call as he begins life in Walford.

Ashley, who will play Finlay, said:

“I’m very excited to be joining the Square. Like many people I grew up with EastEnders; it was almost like an unspoken family tradition. My mum and I sat there together watching so many incredible and iconic storylines. So to now be joining this classic British TV drama is an honour, and I’m truly grateful. I can’t wait for everyone to meet Finlay and see what lies ahead for him.”

The brothers ‘always have each other’s backs’, despite being the opposite of each other.

While fond of his nephews, Mitch hasn’t spoken to his brother for years and their relationship is being billed by the BBC as a ‘complicated’ one.

Realising that there must be a reason for Avery suddenly coming back into his life, Mitch is determined to get to the bottom of what’s going on and find out what secret Avery is hiding…

Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer, EastEnders said:

“The Baker Family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square. Felix and Finlay are two very different firecrackers and, yes, these brothers fall out, take the mick and challenge each other, but none of that compares to their unswerving love and loyalty they have for one another.

“They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving.

“Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we’re excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life. The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year – so watch this space…”

The actors have begun filming and will be first seen on screen this summer.

EastEnders airs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and iPlayer