EastEnders executive producer Jon Sen has promised that Mica Paris's character will be "a force of nature" when she arrives in Walford next month.
The soul singer has joined the cast of the BBC soap as Ellie Nixon, who has "surprising connections to Walford residents".
The character is described as "a wolf in sheep's clothing, with far more to her than her warm-hearted facade lets on", while "her prowess for playing roles in order to get what she wants isn't to be underestimated".
"We're thrilled to welcome Mica Paris to the world of Walford to play tough, no-nonsense Ellie Nixon," said Sen of the casting.
"Ellie proves herself to be a ruthless and uncompromising force of nature who stops at nothing to ensure she capitalises on whatever she can.
"The part demanded both charisma and presence and having seen Mica on stage, she was the first person who came to mind for this role. We can't wait for the audience to meet Ellie and the mystery that surrounds her."
EastEnders returns to BBC One with new episodes on Monday, September 7.
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