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First look at McBusted star Matt Willis in EastEnders as Stacey Branning's boyfriend

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As excitement builds ahead of Matt Willis' EastEnders debut later this month, show bosses have released the first stills of the McBusted star in his new role.

Matt plays Luke Riley, the new boyfriend of Stacey Branning – aka Lacey Turner – who is also making her return to Albert Square

© Photo: BBC

He is described as an ambitious young man who is deeply in love with Stacey. He is working hard in the city, determined to build a secure life for himself and his family.

But it seems he's in for a shock – Stacey hasn't been telling him the whole truth since they got together.

He is pictured in the shots with an uncomfortable looking Kat Slater, who has tracked Stacey down after seeing her the street, and is yet to reveal to Luke her identity as Stacey's cousin.

The whole family thought Stacey was in Mexico - she ran away three years ago after Janine exposed her as Archie Mitchell's killer.

© Photo: BBC

Stacey took her daughter Lily, who is presumably the little girl in the stills.

Matt's other TV acting credits include Birds of a Feather, Miss Marple, and Casualty. He is particularly excited about this new job, however. "I am so thrilled to be a part of such an iconic show," Matt said. "I grew up watching EastEnders so this is really exciting to me!"