Zöe Lucker joins 'EastEnders'

Former Footballers' Wives and Strictly Come Dancing star Zöe Lucker has joined the cast of EastEnders as a new love interest for Max Branning.

The 35-year-old mother-of-one, who played glamourous superbitch Tanya Turner in the ITV football drama, takes on the role of "dynamic and assured" businesswoman Vanessa and immediately attracts the attention of ladies' man Max.

When Vanessa stops by the Car Lot to do business with Max (Jake Wood), there's an immediate chemistry between the pair and it looks like Max has finally met his match - but it's clear that all is not what it seems.

Speaking of her casting, Lucker said: "I'm a huge fan of the show and I'm really looking forward to working closely with Jake Wood. I've heard fantastic things about the show though friends like Kacey Ainsworth and Natalie Cassidy, so I can't wait to get started."

Executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "Zöe Lucker is absolutely perfect for the role of Vanessa. The character is a strong confident force of nature who will play Max at his own game. I can't wait to see Zöe come face to face with Jake Wood on screen."

Lucker is Kirkwood's third signing since taking office at the Albert Square soap earlier this year, having successfully lured Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie back to the show as favourites Kat and Alfie Moon.

Lucker begins filming her initial short stint at the soap's home in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire within the next couple of months and will make her screen debut in the summer.

Her other screen credits include Coronation Street, Holby City, sister show HolbyBlue and Bad Girls.