Movies

Samantha Womack reveals quitting EastEnders WASN’T her choice as she admits she was ‘REJECTED’ by BBC bosses

BBG News

Samantha Womack has spoken publicly about departing from EastEnders, disclosing that she was essentially pushed off the program following a decision made by its directors who allegedly turned down her ideas for the character.

In 2007, the actress, now 52 years old, gained widespread popularity for her portrayal of the passionate character Ronnie Mitchell on the BBC’s daytime drama series. She landed this role during that year.

However, following a ten-year stint on the series, Samantha’s character was unexpectedly written out of the show in 2017 when her character, Ronnie, along with her sister Roxy (played by Rita Simons), were tragically killed off on Christmas Day.

The decision was met with significant disapproval, as some devoted EastEnders fans opted to protest by avoiding the popular prime-time soap following the demise of the dearly cherished Mitchell sisters.

Currently, Samantha has shared insights about her departure from EastEnders in a conversation with TopMob. In this discussion, she admitted that she remains puzzled as to why her character and Rita’s were written out of the storyline.

The mother-of-two said: ‘It was really hard for us because it wasn’t in our hands. 

* We decided not to attend; it’s unclear why things unfolded as they did. It seems that one of the producers left while another took their place, but I’m not certain about the details.

In those moments, it seemed as if I had lost a beloved relative, someone who’d been a constant in my life. It was more than just losing a friend; it was losing family, and with that, the sense of security and balance they brought to my world.

However, what hurt the most – and it truly did hurt – was that both me and Rita cherished the sensation of belonging, only to be turned away. This emotional blow resonated deeply with us.

Reflecting on it now, I can’t help but think, “Oh, if only I had stayed,” as I wouldn’t have left for Valencia, and I wouldn’t have embarked on so many of the adventures I’ve experienced. It feels like a barnacle clinging to a rock; perhaps it was necessary to be pried off at that moment in time.

After departing from EastEnders, Samantha, known for her rise to stardom on EuroVision at 18, has ventured into the realm of stage performances. In 2022, she graced the West End with her presence in a production of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

As I delved deeper into my role as the White Witch, I received the devastating news that I had been diagnosed with an aggressive type of breast cancer.

She mentioned that she hadn’t felt unwell or noticed any lumps, and since she isn’t particularly inclined towards medical matters, during her busy schedule between two performances, she decided to get a routine check-up without anticipating any issues.

After my ultrasound, I noticed a small, non-circular dark shape on the wall monitor in the doctor’s room that didn’t appear to be a typical circle. Since my stepfather is a doctor, I was familiar with the fact that most natural things are round. This observation seemed to silence everyone present.

In the inner workings of my mind, I found myself saying, “Ah, there you are.” I truly believe that deep within us lies a powerful intuition, something we should never ignore. Over time, I’ve come to trust and heed the voice in my head because it has been instrumental in saving my life.

Samantha returned to the theater not long after her scan, and she vividly remembers delivering an intense stage performance once the gravity of things struck her.

She mentioned that she hadn’t fully considered the situation, and it seemed clear to everyone involved that it might be cancer, though a definitive diagnosis hadn’t been made yet.

Due to my busy schedule, I didn’t get a chance to reconsider performing another show at the theater where I played the White Witch. The play revolves around themes of life, death, and their proximity.

As I entered, I was hoisted aloft by this device, amidst falling snow, while soft cello melodies filled the air. In that instant, I felt as if I were drifting through the snowflakes, gazing out into the vast expanse of darkness – it was a moment that left me bewildered and unable to comprehend the reality unfolding before me.

I found myself overwhelmed and losing control on stage in full view of everyone that night. I was enraged, acting impulsively and releasing all my pent-up emotions.

Later on, Samantha received a diagnosis of a severe third-stage breast cancer, necessitating chemotherapy for her to make a full recovery.

The actress from EastEnders, who received a cancer diagnosis in her mid-forties, described the treatment as “frightening” and still recalls the “unpleasant” scent of chemotherapy that lingered on her skin. However, just five months later, she joyfully declared herself to be cancer-free.

Three years after making a full recovery, the actress is currently collaborating with GenesisCare for their “Stay Informed About Your Breast Density” campaign, aiming to enlighten women regarding breast cancer detection.

Specifically, they are urging women to inquire about crucial matters related to breast density when undergoing mammograms.

Women with very dense breast tissue have a surprisingly high risk of developing breast cancer, as they are approximately six times more susceptible compared to women with less dense, or fatty, breast tissue.

Samantha remarked, “The term ‘cancer-free’ seems strange. You see, we carry cancerous cells within us constantly, which means there’s always a potential for a recurrence.

To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it’s crucial to provide comprehensive information about your health. Breast tissue can be categorized into four densities: A, B, C, and D, with very dense breast tissue making it challenging to detect tumors due to the similarity in appearance.

‘You have the freedom to explore options whenever something worries you. At any point in time, feel free to initiate investigations on your own. GenesisCare encourages women to ask important questions about their breast health, and they will provide you with information about your breast density.’

‘A timely diagnosis can transform a cancer diagnosis from seeming like a fatal prognosis into a manageable challenge.’

Samantha shares that she currently feels more content, peaceful, and joyful than she ever has before, as she revels in living life at her residence in the beautiful city of Valencia, Spain.

She’s becoming more selective and isn’t hesitant to turn down offers for new opportunities, yet she hasn’t ruled out the possibility of coming back to British daytime dramas.

‘The fanbase for Ronnie and Roxy is extraordinary,’ the actress said. 

‘They still to this day go loopy when they hear there’s any sort of chance we could come back. 

It seems uncertain how we might return; the only possibility is that they may claim we didn’t really perish, but I can’t be sure.

I recognize that it’s a significant undertaking, fully aware of how demanding workdays can be. Yet, my deep attachment to the show is undeniable – I adore everyone involved and deeply miss being part of the team.

‘I loved working with Rita, it felt silly, it felt fun, we were controversial, we were naughty. 

‘I’m old enough and ugly enough to realise you never close the door on anything. Never say never.’ 

Read More

2025-06-28 14:49

Previous post NRG vs Vitality; Karmine Corp in elimination! Playoffs Day 1 at RLCS 2025 Raleigh Major
Next post Anna Heinrich and Tim Robards return to the scene of their luxe Italian nuptials for romantic child-free vacation