EASTENDERS has signed up a Hollywood legend as it kills off Walford legend Aunt Sal.
The BBC soap has recruited Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels star Alan Ford for a major new storyline, The Sun can exclusively reveal.
Having appeared opposite the likes of Brad Pitt before, Alan will be swapping Hollywood for Walford in the tragic storyline that sees him attend the funeral of beloved Aunt Sal.
The sister of Peggy Mitchell will be given a huge send-off by her family in upcoming scenes.
A source revealed: “Alan’s a great signing by bosses.
“He’s a huge star who fans will be delighted to see on the soap. His character has a long connection to the Mitchells.”
The insider added: “Aunt Sal was a stalwart of the soap and she’ll be done proud with the scenes.”
Cockney actor Alan has previously starred in the soap.
Back in 1986 he made an appearance in one episode of the then fledgling show as a conman called Sam Sangers.
Dodgy Sam planned to con Debbie Wilkins out of her deceased boyfriend, Andy’s belongings but found himself up against the formidable Pauline Fowler who sent him on his way.
It is not yet known whether Alan is playing Sam or a new character.
The funeral scenes are likely to air in the new year with the soap filming two months in advance at this time of year.
Sal was last seen in Walford during Ronnie and Roxy Mitchell’s funeral in 2017 where she berated their mother Glenda for abandoning them as children.
Since then she has been mentioned on-screen with Phil said to have been hiding in her holiday home last year when he was on the run from the police.
However last year in real life Aunt Sal actress Anna Karen died during a house fire at her home in Ilford, London.
Fire engines and firefighters were rushed to the scene on Windsor Road, shortly after 10.30pm.
The crew managed to get the fire under control in less than an hour but Anna had tragically died.
The soap paid tribute to her in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Anna Karen has passed away.
“Anna created a sharp, quick witted and extremely popular character in Aunt Sal that the audience will never forget, just as those who worked with her at EastEnders will never forget her warmth, kindness fun and good humour.
“Our love and thoughts are with Anna’s family and friends.”
An EastEnders spokeswoman declined to comment.
