Former Dynasty star Michael Praed joins Emmerdale cast

Dynasty and Robin of Sherwood actor Michael Praed has joined the cast of Emmerdale.

The 80s heartthrob, who starred as Prince Michael of Moldavia on the American soap, will play prison inmate Frank Clayton.

Praed, 56, said: "I'm thrilled to be joining the cast of Emmerdale to play the role of Frank. From what I understand, his life is fairly complicated and I'm looking forward to getting to know him and portraying this complex man."

When his time at Her Majesty's pleasure is up, Frank plans to move to the village and reunite with daughter Tracy Shankley (played by Amy Walsh).

Frank will make his entrance in the soap when he receives an unexpected visit in jail from Tracy's boyfriend David Metcalfe (Matthew Wolfenden).

David is attempting to build bridges between the pair, but Tracy is initially unaware of his approach.

She has put her father to the back of her mind, so Frank's imminent arrival in the village will see old wounds reopen.

Praed, who was born Michael Prince, is best known to viewers as Robin of Loxley in ITV's cult series Robin Of Sherwood.

His credits also include stage appearances in The Sound Of Music and the musical version of The War Of The Worlds.

Series producer Iain MacLeod said he was "thrilled" with the new addition to the Dales.

He said: "The character of Frank is really fascinating: flawed, funny, flirtatious - even fatherly, when it suits him.

"His tale is a story of a man trying to find redemption in the face of huge temptation, with a massive twist or two thrown in for good measure.

"I am thrilled that Michael is on board in the role. He is an actor of real skill and understatement and a brilliant addition to the cast."