New couple join 'Emmerdale' for Xmas

A smart and savvy City couple is to descend on Emmerdale at Christmas as Amanda Donohoe and Maxwell Caulfield join the cast of the Yorkshire-based soap.

The pair will play husband and wife Natasha and Mark Wylde, an aspirational, wealthy and dynamic duo who have decided to exchange their high-flying City life for the idyllic rural surroundings of Yorkshire.

Despite the initial warm welcome from the villagers, it's not long before Natasha and Mark's dream of a quiet life in the country comes crashing down around them in dramatic style.

Speaking of her new role, Donohoe said: ''I was very flattered when series producer Anita Turner and executive producer Keith Richardson first approached me with the idea, so I'm now very excited about joining one of Britain's best-loved soaps.

"I'm hoping the next few months will deliver some intriguing new storylines and I'm looking forward to galloping across the beautiful Yorkshire Dales and of course a pint (of Champagne) at the Woolie!''

Caulfield commented: "This role was just too tempting to turn down and I can't wait to start filming in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. Mark's complexities will be an interesting addition to life in Emmerdale."

Of the show's new signings, series producer Anita Turner added: "I'm thrilled to be welcoming two actors of such high calibre to the cast. Amanda and Maxwell will be at the centre of some of our most gripping storylines next year and will be bringing some compelling drama to the Dales."

Donohoe's previous credits include Castaway, L.A. Law, Bad Girls, Liar Liar and Murder City. Caulfield, meanwhile, is most noted for his roles in Dynasty and The Colbys. He has also appeared in a variety of other shows such as Strip Mall and Casualty.

The pair begin filming next month and will first appear on screen on Christmas Day.