EastEnders reveals hunky new gangster to rival Phil Mitchell – and he’s arriving soon

EASTENDERS bosses have revealed a new hunk joining the show and he’s set to cause mayhem.

Ravi Gulati will shake things up in Albert Square when he is released from prison later this summer.

Ravi, played by British stage and screen actor Aaron Thiara, made his debut appearance in the BBC One soap tonight after fellow inmate Phil Mitchell - played by Steve McFadden - turned to him for help after making an enemy in jail.

Viewers will discover that Ravi has a connection to the Square after he asks Phil for information on Kheerat Panesar, played by Jaz Deol.

Ravi is revealed to be the son of Panesar family friend Ranveer, but his intentions are currently unclear.

Despite Ravi's seemingly charming and charismatic personality, not all is as it seems as viewers will soon discover that he is willing to do whatever it takes to get what he wants.

As his time in prison draws to a close, Ravi will make his way to Walford to reunite with the Panesars, but not all of them will be pleased to see him.

Speaking about joining EastEnders, Thiara said: "My heart is filled with immense gratitude to be joining such an iconic show, working alongside a stellar cast and a remarkable production team.

"It's a very proud moment for me and my family. 

“This is a wondrous opportunity to approach as an actor, and I can't wait for people to meet Ravi on screen and witness his rollercoaster of a journey."

EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: "Ravi is captivating, cunning and dangerous, and can go from pleasant to menacing with very little warning - unlike Aaron, who's a wonderful addition to the EastEnders cast.

"We're all excited to see Aaron bring the character to life and there's plenty of drama and shocking twists in store - wherever Ravi goes, trouble follows."

Viewers can expect to see Ravi return to screens later in the summer.