EastEnders has announced the casting of former Casualty star Jason Durr, who will play local councillor Clive Masters. His character is set to debut in upcoming scenes as the community centre faces redevelopment, drawing the ire of Linda Carter (Kellie Bright).
Community Centre Battle Brings New Character
Clive Masters will arrive when it becomes clear that the local community centre is at risk of being redeveloped. Linda Carter, who previously led a campaign to save the market in 2014, is not about to let the council take away the community centre without a fight. This lands her in the eyeline of local councillor Clive. Firmly behind Linda and the Albert Square residents, Clive rallies the troops as he supports the movement, and it becomes clear that there is perhaps more than just a budding friendship between the two.
Jason Durr Excited to Join EastEnders
Jason Durr expressed his delight about joining the cast. 'Few shows command their place in the national conversation quite like EastEnders, so I’m delighted to be joining the cast as Clive Masters,' he said. 'Working with the wonderful Kellie Bright has been an absolute joy and pleasure from day one. All the cast, crew and production staff have been incredibly generous, welcoming and good humoured. I’m excited for audiences to meet Clive and see what’s in store.'
Linda's Romantic Journey
Ever since the disappearance and presumed death of her ex-husband Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), Linda has entertained a potential dalliance with Max Branning (Jake Wood) before entering into a brief fling with Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp). However, proper romance has evaded her so far. Could Clive be the one to change that?
Fan Reactions: Excitement and Eye Candy
Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement. Polly Osbourne said, 'Omg I had (still do) a thing for him, watched him in Casualty, Heartbeat and The Bill, really hope Enders keeps him in for a while – don’t care about story line, just nice to have some eye candy back on the box!' Sheila Swords agreed: 'The same, love him, he’s brilliant and someone to look at.' Katrina Groves declared, 'LUCKY LINDA!' and Christine Klum added, 'Oh be still my heart!' Anna Hammence hoped Jason hasn't changed his hairstyle: 'Wow! if he keeps his hair style what he had in Heartbeat he will be a smasher and keep the same personality he was worth watching he was great.'
Fans Welcome a 'Nice Guy' for Linda
Not all comments were about Durr's looks. Many fans were happy to see Linda potentially meet a 'nice guy'. Jane Lawrie said, 'I’m glad Linda is getting a boyfriend, she has been alone too long. Max was never going to be faithful.' Kim Thomas concurred: 'Lovely to see Linda with someone nice, Jason Durr is a brilliant actor loved him in Casualty as David.' Anne Witherington added, 'Love Linda’s character, meeting a nice man, will give her the life she deserves hopefully. Such a brilliant actress!!' Kim Davenport also expressed excitement: 'Loved him in Heartbeat and Casualty lovely his is coming back to prime time TV might start watching EastEnders again, now bring back David Essex it will be perfect.'
