Marc Elliott will join EastEnders, playing the character of Syed Masood, appearing on screen from May 2009.

Syed is the much talked about son of Masood Ahmed and Zainab Masood who turns up in Walford to be reunited with his parents – but how will he fit back into family life?

Syed Masood is the handsome, suave and sophisticated eldest child of the Masood family.

A natural charmer, a smooth talker and the apple of his mother’s eye, he’s learned how to get ahead in business using his persuasive charm. He can spot an opportunity a mile off, and will pursue regardless of how reckless it seems to others.

Marc Elliott says: “It is so exciting to join the cast of EastEnders and to be working with actors such as Nina Wadia and Nitin Ganatra who I have admired for many years. The Masood family have really made a name for themselves in the Square and it will be interesting see how Syed plans to stir things up!”

Diederick Santer, Executive Producer, adds: “At last he’s here! The most talked-about yet unseen prodigal son in EastEnders history. Syed is a fascinating character, and I’m sure Marc will bring his many dimensions to life with great verve. Entrepeneurial, reckless, dashing and complicated, he’s set to bring surprises and chaos to the Masood family.”

Marc Elliott has previously appeared in Holby and The Bill.