Rose Ayling-Ellis inspires historic drama moment as BBC hunts for first deaf lead actor after Strictly success

BEEB bosses are lining up Strictly finalist Rose Ayling-Ellis to take the lead in a drama based on a deaf character.

She is set to return to the cast of EastEnders regardless of whether she wins the competition or not, but they want to have a project ready for her to take on in the long term.

The BBC are keen to develop a show which will be the first to feature a deaf actor - one which would be perfect for Rose, 27.

A TV insider said: “Rose has already shattered so many stereotypes during her time on Strictly and execs will be keen to see that continue once the show has ended.

“Although she is committed for the foreseeable future to EastEnders, that doesn’t mean that she won’t be looking at her longer term prospects.

“Especially as she’s seen her profile soar as a result of sailing into the final.

“And the BBC will be keen to ensure that she takes her next step with the corporation, rather than with another broadcaster who could be keen to sign her up.”

Rose has played Frankie Lewis, a friend of Ben Mitchell, on EastEnders since May of last year. It was a role created by deaf scriptwriter Charlie Swinbourne.

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Since appearing on Strictly she has become a trailblazer for raising awareness of the deaf community and boosted interest in British sign language.

In particular her “silent dance” couple’s choice routine with partner Giovanni Pernice captured the public’s imagination when they performed it last month.