AN EASTENDERS star has said he “can’t wait” to perform in a stage adaptation of a popular crime novel.

Adam Woodyatt, who has played Ian Beale in EastEnders for more than 35 years, is swapping Walford for the theatre as he prepares to play the lead role in Looking Good Dead.

The play has been adapted from a novel of the same name by Brighton born author Peter James.

The Argus: Adam Woodyatt will star in the production when it hits the stage in Brighton.Adam Woodyatt will star in the production when it hits the stage in Brighton.

Looking Good Dead was originally set to begin touring the UK in May, but it has now been postponed to later in the year.

Adam said he is thrilled to be a part of the show as it is full of “twists and turns.”

He told the BBC: “It’s really good. Shaun Mckenna is an award-winning playwright, and he is the one who had adapted the book to the stage.

“It’s a good team and it’s a cracking tour. I can’t wait. I’m honestly so excited.”

The tour will have its world premiere in July before stopping at the Theatre Royal in Brighton from Monday, October 11, to Saturday, 16 October.

Forming part of the Roy Grace series, the show follows Adam’s character, Tom Bryce, who inadvertently witnesses a murder, and by reporting it to the police, places his family in grave danger.

The show marks the first time Adam has performed in live theatre since he starred in Tom Stoppard’s On the Razzle, at the age of 13.

Further cast members are still to be announced and tickets are available now.

Earlier this year, a television adaptation of Peter James’s Roy Grace novels aired to rave reviews.

ITV’s Grace was filmed in Brighton and Hove last year with city landmarks – including Brighton Palace Pier and the i360 – playing a starring role in the adaptation.

The second instalment is due to follow later this year, with a release date to be confirmed.