Two iconic EastEnders actresses, who have shared the screen on the BBC soap for over a decade, actually began their professional relationship decades earlier in a beloved 1990s British film. Linda Henry and Tameka Empson, famous for portraying Shirley Carter and Kim Fox on the long-running drama, previously co-starred in the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ movie Beautiful Thing.
Early Careers in a Pioneering Film
The 1996 production, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, tells the story of two gay teenage boys living as neighbours on a London council estate in Thamesmead. Linda Henry took on the role of Sandra Gangel, one of the teenagers' mothers, while Tameka Empson played their friend Leah Russell. The film has consistently been featured on lists of the finest LGBTQ+ films ever made since its debut.
Written by a Soap Veteran
Penned by playwright Jonathan Harvey, who later spent two decades writing for Coronation Street, the screenplay adapts his stage play of the same title. The film's soundtrack prominently features music from The Mamas & the Papas and 'Mama' Cass Elliot, adding to its nostalgic appeal.
Fan Reactions and Rediscovery
EastEnders enthusiasts have been revisiting the British romantic comedy after social media posts resurfaced highlighting the connection. One fan expressed surprise, writing, "I barely recognised our Shirley," while another praised the film as "Brilliant film! Pure comedy but touching too!" A third noted, "Loved the film. Linda & Tameka were so young," and a fourth remarked on Tameka's performance, "Tameka is hilarious in this."
Additional EastEnders Connections
Many supporters quickly pointed out further links between the film and the soap opera. One admirer observed, "Brilliant film. Half the cast of EastEnders - Shirley Carter, Kim Fox, Di Marsden and Aunt Sal were all in it." The late Anna Karen, who played Peggy Mitchell's sister Aunt Sal in EastEnders, also made an appearance in Beautiful Thing.
Meanwhile, Scott Neal, who portrayed a romantic lead in the film, later shared scenes with Linda Henry in the Queen Vic pub when he was cast as Jason Adams, the new love interest of Elaine Peacock, in 2015.
Current Soap Status and Future Speculation
While Tameka Empson continues to be a key member of the EastEnders cast, Linda Henry has been on an extended break from the soap since 2022. Her character, Shirley Carter, departed Albert Square following the presumed drowning of her son Mick Carter, portrayed by Danny Dyer. More than two years later, fans remain curious about a potential return for Shirley.
In 2024, Linda Henry enjoyed a reunion lunch with Beautiful Thing writer Jonathan Harvey, who posted on social media, "Love this woman," sparking further speculation among followers. EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer, keeping audiences engaged with ongoing storylines while reflecting on past connections like this cinematic collaboration.
