EastEnders casts major TV star for tragic Denise cancer story – and he’s not alone

| Soaps Editor and Editorial Training Manager Published August 11, 2026 8:01pm Denise’s family is about to be expanded during her toughest battle (Picture: BBC) EastEnders is set to expand the Trueman-Fox clan, which can only ever be good news, sparking more valuable screentime for the likes of Diane Parish, Tameka Empson and Rudolph Walker. Diane has been wowing fans of late with some of her best ever performances across her two decades as iconic Square matriarch Denise. The character is currently battling blood cancer in a storyline that is focusing on her dire need for a stem cell transplant. It’s something which has resonated with many viewers, including a Metro reader who shared her story with me. Now, another chapter to the arc will unfold as a secret half-brother emerges on the scene played by well-known TV actor Christopher Colquhoun, celebrated for roles in Absentia, Casualty and Fleabag. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. The Fox-Truemans are left reeling when Kim makes a shocking discovery, uncovering Darnell – the half-brother of Denise’s that she never knew existed. The actor was a main player in Absentia, on Amazon (Picture: Amazon/Shutterstock) Christopher is also known for Casualty, Coronation Street and Fleabag (Picture: Miles Yikkini)) As the family reach out and come face-to-face with Darnell, they are also introduced to his daughter, Grace, played by Krysstina Frempong, who has appeared in Too Much and Essex Girls. An EastEnders spokesperson revealed: ‘Their introduction is far from straightforward, and for Darnell, what begins as an unexpected family reunion soon takes on a different significance when he learns of Denise’s cancer diagnosis and her ongoing treatment…’ Whether he will prove to be a big support, a thorn in the side or even a massive lifeline remains to be seen, but the actor is delighted to be grabbing the role and getting stuck into one of soap’s biggest storylines of the year. ‘I am thrilled to be finally moving to Walford after all these years, and the welcome I’ve received has been phenomenal,’ he enthused. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Krysstina has watched EastEnders for as long as she can remember (Picture: Tom Trovett) ‘Hearing I’d got the role was an absolute doof doof moment for me… hopefully there’ll be plenty more of those to come!’ Given the gravitas of the cast he is working with, there is no doubt about that! And Krysstine is equally enthusiastic to be treading the Square alongside stars she is familiar with. ‘I am extremely excited to be joining EastEnders!’ she said. ‘I have watched the show for as long as I can remember and have such vivid memories of gathering around the TV with my family, especially at Christmas, to watch all the drama unfolding on the Square, so it feels pretty surreal to now be a part of the action! This will change everything for the family (Picture: BBC) ‘I’m really looking forward to working with, and learning from my new colleagues, whom I’ve long admired, and hope audiences enjoy getting to know Grace and all the complexities she’ll bring to their screens!’ The show’s executive producer Ben Wadey added: ‘Kim’s discovery uncovers a new branch of the Fox-Trueman family, and we’re excited to introduce viewers to new members of their extended family. ‘It’s been great to delve into this wider family network, and we’re delighted to welcome Christopher and Krysstina to the cast as we bring two new faces to Walford.’ Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you The newcomers will appear on screen for the first time later this month. Arrow MORE: All EastEnders spoilers for next week as Ian works with serial killer Gray to destroy Chelsea Arrow MORE: EastEnders legend stages return amid Denise cancer ordeal sparking emotional reunion Arrow MORE: Denise in EastEnders is left utterly disgusted by revelation from Chelsea The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.