Once's Declan Bennett to join EastEnders

Declan Bennett who plays the lead role of street musician Guy in Once the Musical at the Phoenix Theatre is to join EastEnders as Dot Branning's grandson Charlie Cotton (the eldest son of Dot's wayward son Nick).

He is leaving Once on 8th March with a change of cast expected to be announced this week. The musical has today extended its booking period to July 4th 2015. He will begin filming EastEnders this month and can be seen on screen from March. 

Bennett said: "I'm delighted to be joining the cast of EastEnders, especially at what seems to be an extremely exciting time for the show. June Brown (who plays Dot) is not only an incredible actress but has also created one of TV's most iconic characters. To be working alongside her is a dream come true."