Emmerdale reveals Hollywood actor Joshua Richards as Paddy Kirk’s dad, wrestler Bear Wolf

EMMERDALE has announced Hollywood actor Joshua Richards will arrive in the Dales as Paddy Kirk's wrestler dad, Bear Wolf.

The grizzly Bear's arrival will be emotional for Paddy [Dominic Brunt], who's not entirely convinced the ageing grappler is his father.

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Despite his advancing age, Bear is still doing his best to pursue a career as a spandex-clad wrestler.

After Mandy Dingle [Lisa Riley] revealed the identity of Paddy's dad during her dramatic return to the Dales after 18 years, Chas [Lucy Pargeter] and Marlon [Mark Charnock] will persuade Paddy to attend a wrestling convention involving Bear.

The search for the truth will see some of the soap's characters travel to Northern Ireland.

Richards' impressive CV includes appearances for the Royal Shakespeare Company and in feature films including Panic Button and Troy.

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Speaking of his new role, he said: "I am delighted to be joining the cast of Emmerdale.

"Having been based in Yorkshire for most of my life, it's fantastic to now be filming there too.

"Bear Wolf is a great character and I am looking forward to seeing what's in store for him."

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Emmerdale Producer Kate Brooks said: "We are absolutely delighted to have an actor of Joshua's calibre join our show. An actor of immense talent and charisma, he's a brilliant addition to the Emmerdale team.

"It proves quite the adventure when Paddy and Marlon track Bear down in Belfast as Paddy's life is turned upside down by boisterous Bear. However, Bear isn't the only familiar face our villagers find in Belfast…”

Viewers will see Bear Wolf on their screens from mid February.

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