EastEnders executives have unveiled a poignant and fitting tribute to the legendary actress June Brown, who portrayed the iconic character Dot Cotton for decades on the beloved BBC soap opera. In a move described as something "she would no doubt have approved of," the on-set canteen has been officially renamed "On The Dot" to honour Brown's deep affection for the eatery and her enduring legacy.
A Lasting Memorial to a Soap Icon
June Brown, who passed away in 2022 at the remarkable age of 95, was not only a cherished resident of Albert Square on screen but also a beloved figure behind the scenes. Her presence in the canteen was a constant, where she would often hold court with fellow cast members, sharing stories over cigarettes and cups of tea. The decision to rename the canteen serves as a permanent memorial to her contributions and personality.
Cast Members Reflect on Fond Memories
Michelle Collins, who plays Cindy Beale on the show, recalled Brown's vibrant character and surprising health habits. "I know she smoked and loved her red wine, but she was very healthy," Collins said. "I saw her once doing her pelvic floor exercises on the trolley in the canteen." This anecdote highlights the actress's unique and spirited nature, which endeared her to colleagues.
John Altman, known for his role as Nasty Nick, shared how Brown's popularity made simple trips to the canteen an event. "We'd walk to the canteen at the BBC, and it would always take about half an hour because she'd stop along the way chatting to people," he explained. This illustrates the deep respect and admiration her peers held for her.
Breaking the Rules with Charm
Former co-star Katie Jarvis revealed that Brown was granted special privileges on set, such as being allowed to smoke while working. "June sat down, and she was just smoking and smoking... Yeah, she was the only one that was allowed!" Jarvis told The Sun. "She'd always be working as an actress daily. She put her cigarette down, went on the set, and she's reading these pages of dialogue... She knew all of her lines, never got them wrong." This testament to her professionalism and charisma underscores why she was so revered.
Honouring Her Wishes and Legacy
The tribute comes ahead of what would have been Brown's 100th birthday in 2027, adding a layer of significance to the gesture. After her death, EastEnders paid respects on-screen with a funeral for Dot Cotton, a storyline approved by her family. Executive producer Chris Kershaw noted, "She did of course know that when she did leave us, it was the right thing to do. After some time, we couldn’t put it off much longer. We spoke to June's family who knew it was what she would have wanted."
This renaming of the canteen not only celebrates Brown's life but also ensures that her spirit remains a part of the EastEnders community. As the soap continues to air on BBC One and stream on iPlayer, fans and cast alike can remember her through this heartfelt homage.
