East is East star Jimi Mistry is to join Coronation Street as a charming ex-squaddie, ITV have annouced.
It will be a return to home turf for Cheadle Hulme-raised Jimi when he starts filming on Corrie in the autumn.
He will play Khalid, known as Kal, a mate of Gary Windass, who since leaving the army has become a personal trainer.
ITV revealed yesterday the star signing, and said: “he will set tongues wagging and pulses racing” and is “likely to upset a few of the menfolk of Weatherfield.”
More details of the character will be revealed in the coming months and Jimi will start filming in September, to appear on screen in November.
Coronation Street Producer Stuart Blackburn said: “I'm thrilled to welcome Jimi to Coronation Street, with credits that include East is East, The Guru and Blood Diamond getting him on board is a real coup. Jimi’s character is going to have a swift impact on the lives of many in Weatherfield.”
Film and TV actor Jimi also starred in the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 where he was partnered with professional dancer Flavia Cacace.
The pair became an item, and announced in April this year that they are now engaged to be married.
The 40-year-old actor is a former pupil of St James' Catholic High School in Cheadle.
