Producers of Emmerdale have announced the arrival of a new character who is set to ruffle feathers within the fictional village.
Marcus Dean is the son of Rhona Goskirk’s violent ex-husband Pierce Harris, and his presence sure to come as a shock to viewers and characters of the long running soap.
Played by actor Darcy Grey, Dean’s first appearance is slated for February 3.
His arrival comes as Goskirk finally begins to get on with her life following the trauma of her ill-fated relationship with Harris.
Though Dean retains his father’s brooding good looks, the villagers will soon realise there may be more to him than meets the eye.
The series will reveal whether Dean is given a chance to be more than just his father’s son, or forever live in the shadow of the heinous crimes.
Harris is still serving time in prison for raping his ex-wife so his son’s presence in the village is certain to bring back anxiety and trauma for Goskirk.
“When my agent sent me the character of Marcus Dean, I was quietly smiling inside,” said Grey.
“We share so many similarities, both the good – and perhaps – some of the bad. I thought ‘I know who this kid is’.
“To then get the call to say that the role was mine was one of those pinch-yourself moments we actors simply dream of”.
He added: “For Marcus, the battle of being torn between wanting to forget his relationship with his Dad but also ultimately, wanting to simply be loved is a challenge many of us face, and one that I hope I can bring some truth to.
“He is such an open book, with such an uncertain future that I just can’t wait for you all to see where his journey in the village takes him”.
Emmerdale producer Kate Brooks said: “We’re delighted to welcome Darcy to the show and we’re sure he’ll certainly make quite the impression on villagers and viewers alike”.