Former Coronation Street star Ryan Thomas has joined the cast of Australian soap Neighbours.
The actor, best known for playing Jason Grimshaw on the ITV serial drama from 2000 until 2016, will take on the role of Rafael Humphreys.
Rafael has been described as a loner with dark secrets, and he comes to Ramsay Street to confront a difficult chapter from his past.
He will be seen on-screen in Neighbours, which airs in the UK on Channel 5, from early 2018.
Thomas, 33, said of his new role: “I grew up watching Neighbours so to get the chance to join the cast is amazing.
“I was on holiday with my daughter when I got a phone call from my agent asking if I’d like to play this part… I spoke to the producer and found out more – it was very different from anything I’d played before – it was quite a deep, dark story, that really interested me.
“It’s a new challenge and I can’t wait to start filming.”
Greg Barnett, commissioning editor at Channel 5, said: “With his good looks and Corrie years under his belt, Ryan is the perfect handsome devil.
“His arrival in Erinsborough marks the start of darker times for a particular Ramsay Street favourite. Prepare to be gripped.”
Thomas joined the cast of Corrie when he was 16, departing in 2016 after 16 years.
Neighbours airs on weekdays on Channel 5.
