Everything you need to know about the new Eastenders character, Paul Coker

Maybe he can fill the Ben-Hardy-shaped hole in our lives

We have a new Eastenders character! Meet Jonny Labey as Paul Coker

by Lauren Smith |
Published on

Remember when hot, shirtless Ben Hardy left Eastenders, and we wept for days? Well the Easties Gods have answered our prayers to find a new boy to fill Peter Beale's shoes - and his name is Jonny Labey.

Jonny will play Paul Coker, Grandson to Les and Pam, BBC execs announced this afternoon - and Labey's appointment to the Square has already set Twitter on fire.

Coker has been larging it up as a club rep, but will arrive in Walford in Spring, and according to the official announcement, is "fun, honest, and always the centre of attention" with a "natural confidence...born of knowing and being comfortable with exactly who he is". He's also set to "set one particular heart on The Square on fire" - which is exciting!

TOP STORIES

    But, this being Eastenders, there's a touch of drama on the cards for Paul.

    EastEnders' Executive Producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins revealed: "We’re all looking forward to seeing the trouble that Paul will cause for his grandparents, as he uncovers some secrets from the past and sets one heart in particular racing…”

    Blimey. Paul sounds like a bit of a rogue - but one that's decidedly easy on the eye, judging by his Twitter profile.

    On securing the role, Jonny added: "I am overjoyed to have been given the role of Paul Coker and am thrilled to be joining the show at such a prevalent time - as it marks its 30th anniversary. I know I've got a lot of work to do to live up to the talent I shall be working with, but I have never felt more welcome and cannot wait to get started.”

    Jonny’s first appearance as Paul Coker in EastEnders will be in June 2015.

    Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us