Tamzin Outhwaite is proving that life after a soap opera can be vibrant and fulfilling. At 55, the actress is about to embark on a short UK tour of Mike Leigh's Abigail's Party, a production that first garnered critical acclaim at Stratford East in 2024 before transferring to the West End's Harold Pinter Theatre in August. Set in Essex in 1977, the play features Outhwaite as Beverly, a hostess whose evening spirals into awkwardness and conflict. Outhwaite describes Beverly as 'vile and manipulative and a narcissist,' yet relishes playing such a complex character. 'When I was younger, I played characters who provided the moral compass. Now, I get to tackle baddies: much more fun,' she says.
From EastEnders to the Stage
Outhwaite first rose to fame as Mel Healy on EastEnders in 1998, a role she reprised in 2018. She recalls her time on the soap with fondness, noting that it 'put me on the map.' Her character's dramatic arc included multiple marriages, a prison stint, and a kidnapping. Outhwaite also reflects on the changing times, such as being voted the sexiest soap character three times. 'Can you imagine having an award for being sexy in 2026? Ludicrous,' she laughs.
A Career of Variety
Beyond soap operas, Outhwaite has enjoyed a diverse career. She starred in two series of Red Cap, performing her own stunts, and later appeared in the glamorous Hotel Babylon. In 2013, she joined the cast of New Tricks. 'I'm never scared to leave something. I'm good at holding my nerve,' she says. Her stage work includes Alan Ayckbourn's How the Other Half Loves and Boeing Boing, as well as Breathing Corpses opposite James McAvoy.
Personal Life and Family
Outhwaite's personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. She married actor Tom Ellis in 2006, with whom she has two children, Flo, 18, and Marnie, 13. The couple separated in 2013 after Ellis admitted to an affair, divorcing the following year. Outhwaite later had a six-year relationship with actor-producer Tom Child, which ended in 2024. She describes herself as 'happily single' and values her independence. 'I used to be a serial monogamist. But I've come to really like my own company. In a way, I've fallen in love with myself,' she shares.
Outhwaite also speaks openly about her eldest child Flo, who came out as transgender around age 10 or 11. 'I used to have two daughters. Now I have a son and a daughter,' she says proudly. Flo is spending the summer studying Shakespeare at RADA, while Marnie is a natural on stage. Outhwaite's father, Colin, lives in a house at the bottom of her garden in north London, and she sees him daily. Her mother, Anna, passed away eight years ago, but Outhwaite feels her presence through robins in the garden. 'Whenever one comes to visit, I'll say: 'Hello, Mum, how are you?''
Beauty Secrets and Wellness
Outhwaite maintains her youthful appearance without resorting to Botox. She credits yoga, Pilates, and regular walking for her fitness. Additionally, she has a sauna in her spare room, which she uses five times a week. 'I was told you're less likely to have a stroke or a heart attack if you use it regularly. Best money I ever spent,' she says. She also underwent a non-surgical facelift called NeoGen Plasma, recommended by Shirley Ballas. 'I'd describe them as intense facials which I had over a period of a year. And I really notice the difference,' Outhwaite explains. She is firmly against Botox because 'it removes your ability to register emotion, something rather important in my line of work.'
Looking ahead, Outhwaite is content with her life. 'I can honestly say I'm the happiest I've ever been,' she beams. 'My children are my best friends which is wonderful; I like being around them. I've got an interesting and varied career. Would I like another meaningful relationship? Maybe one day. At the moment, though, I'm content and that's very liberating.'
