25 October 2023 , 11:05
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Jay McGuiness might be preparing for his debut book release but he's announced he'll be touring the country with 2:22 A Ghost Story.
The Wanted hitmaker who in recent years has swapped the stages of arenas for the dazzling lights of theatre is no stranger to the West End, or touring, having appeared in the likes of Big The Musical. But while his previous roles have been fun and upbeat, he will now take on a more chilling role.
Newark-born Jay, 33, who won Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 will play Ben in the production while former Casualty actor George Rainsford who played Ethan Hardy in the BBC medical drama will take on the role of Sam. Emmerdale actress Fiona Wade will step into the role of Jenny, previously played by Cheryl Tweedy and Frankie Bridge, while Vera Chok will play Lauren.
Strictly Come Dancing champ Jay McGuiness is hitting the road with 2:22 A Ghost Story (PA)
The Wanted hitmaker will play Ben, the leading male in the production (Runaway Entertainment/ A Ghost Story)While the production is heavily associated with the West End, Jay, Fiona and George will be touring the nation with their performances. Although the current cast which includes EastEnders' Louisa Lytton, Nathaniel Curtis, Charlene Boyd and Joe Absolom will continue in their roles until December.
Jay and Co will commence their roles in January and will continue until June 2024. Speaking about taking on the role, Jay said: "I went to see the play in London with Cheryl, Jake, Louise, and Scott, and immediately it was something I wanted to be a part of. Can't wait to get stuck into this role and spend some time spooking theatres all around the UK!"
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His fans appeared to be overjoyed as they rushed to congratulate him, with one writing: "Huge congratulations, Jay!" A second penned: "OMG my favourite wanted member in the play by my favourite podcast host ?!?!? No way!!" Before another typed: "This is amazing congratulations Jay."
He will appear alongside George Rainsford, Fiona Wade and Vera Chok (Runaway Entertainment/ A Ghost Story)Meanwhile, George said: "I can't wait to join the cast of 2:22 A Ghost Story, working with an amazing cast and crew. I am a huge fan of Danny Robins' script, it's such a fun and thrilling night at the theatre and I look forward to spooking audiences up and down the country… everyone enjoys being a little scared sometimes, right?"
Sharing her excitement, Fiona who played Priya Sharma on the ITV soap added: "I am so excited to be joining the cast of 2.22 A Ghost Story. Being a part of this thrilling and brilliant play is an absolute dream. I've been a huge fan of Danny Robins for a while now so this is a part and an opportunity I cannot wait to get started on. I feel blessed and honoured to be joining such an amazing team!"
Former Hollyoaks star Vera commented: "Theatre brings me such joy, and I'm raring to get back on stage, and what a show to come back with! It's going to be so fun to share 2:22, an absolute rollercoaster ride of a show, with audiences across the UK. Laughs, tension, and jump-out-of-your-seat scary - it's going to be a Good Night Out with plenty to talk about over a bevvy after. Can't wait to get in the room with the stellar team!"
The production focuses on Jenny who believes her home is haunted but Sam, her husband, refuses to believe this. After arguing with one another over their different views, the couple stay awake until 2:22 in order to find out if their home is actually haunted. Jay is expected to be extremely busy in the new year with 2:22 and the release of Blood Flowers, a dystopian romance young adult fiction novel.