Duncan James from Blue is aiming for the reverse of Kylie Minogue’s career path – as he transitions from pop stardom to soap.

Kylie started off on Neighbours before becoming a global music star.

Duncan, who will play newcomer Ryan on Hollyoaks, said: “I’ve always loved the soaps, I mean who doesn’t?

Duncan James (John Stillwell / PA)
Duncan James (John Stillwell / PA)

“It’s part of the British institution, soap operas, so for me to come from a pop background to going into soaps is something I’m really excited about.

“I know there are a lot of soap stars that have crossed into the pop world, so I’m just doing it the other way around.”

Pop band Blue in 2009
Pop band Blue in 2009 (Yui Mok/PA)

Duncan joined the Hollyoaks cast at the British Soap Awards on Saturday evening.

On developing his character before the surprise announcement, he said: “It’s been great, I went up to Liverpool last week, did an initial walk through the set, met some of the crew. I sat in a room with the writers and the directors and Bryan (Kirkwood), who is the big boss, and we did a bit of a brainstorm about my character.

“I’m excited about what’s going to happen and I’m excited about starting filming in a few weeks.

“He talked to me about things in my life that I could relate to, that I had gone through, that we could work in to who my character is going to be.

Duncan James is joining Hollyoaks
Duncan James is joining Hollyoaks (Matt Crossick/PA)

“I’m really excited about my character so I’m just learning about him at the moment, learning about his back story, his family, everything. It’s amazing. You’re creating a new person.”

The singer and TV presenter will play Ryan, a new character who moves into the village with his family this summer.

A spokesperson for the Channel 4 soap said: “Ryan is a good guy in a committed relationship who will move into the village.

“He is a grounded family man with principles and integrity but who will fight tooth and nail for what he believes in.”

Duncan, 38, will be seen in the soap later this year.