EastEnders fans are in for a visual treat as Letitia Dean makes a striking return to Albert Square.
The 57-year-old, who has portrayed Sharon Watts since 1985, flaunted her impressive weight loss in the latest dramatic trailer for the BBC soap.
In the clip, Sharon steps out of a taxi alongside her son Albie, only to come face-to-face with her father Den’s killer, Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan), who has also returned to Walford after nearly two decades.
Letitia looked effortlessly stylish in skin-tight black trousers, paired with a lace top and towering heels, highlighting her renewed confidence and health.
A Journey of Health and Dedication
The actress has previously revealed that she shed two stone in just a year, dropping from 10st 4lbs to 8st 3lbs and four dress sizes in the process.
Letitia credits her transformation to cutting out junk food and focusing on her overall wellbeing, moving away from the “faddy diets” that had failed her in the past.
“I just woke up one morning and had enough,” she told Closer in 2007, reflecting on years of yo-yo dieting.
“For years and years, my weight had gone up and down.
I tried everything, from Atkins to only eating eggs. But nothing was sustainable.”
Her new routine focuses on a well-balanced diet of 1,300 calories a day, including grilled skinless chicken and plenty of vegetables, complemented by regular exercise such as running and boxercise.
She noted the newfound energy she enjoys now that she has ditched extreme dieting.
Co-Star Shane Richie Heads to the Stage
While Letitia is busy making waves on Albert Square, her co-star Shane Richie, 61, is preparing for a leading role far from Walford.
The actor, known for playing Alfie Moon, will star in Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Christmas pantomime Dick Whittington, running from December 12 to January 10.
A source told The Sun that Shane’s brief absence from EastEnders won’t disrupt his on-screen appearances, as the cast accommodates the soap’s Christmas break.
He will be joined on stage by musical theatre talents Anne Smith and Emily Beth Harrington.
Strictly Rehearsals Take Their Toll on Balvinder Sopal
Meanwhile, Balvinder Sopal, who plays Suki Panesar on EastEnders, has faced an early hurdle during her Strictly Come Dancing training.
Just two days into rehearsals, the actress sustained a thigh injury and was rushed to see the show’s medical team.
Sharing updates with fans on Instagram, Balvinder reassured everyone: “I’m fine, everything is okay.
I can still walk and move, but my left glute and hip are feeling a little tight.”
Despite the setback, she praised the professional dancers, describing them as “superhuman, literal gods” and expressed excitement about learning from their expertise.
EastEnders Cast Juggling TV and Stage Commitments
Between Letitia’s remarkable transformation, Shane’s pantomime debut, and Balvinder tackling Strictly rehearsals, EastEnders’ cast members are proving they can balance multiple demanding roles.
Fans can look forward to dramatic returns, compelling storylines, and stellar performances both on screen and on stage this holiday season.