Terry Bradshaw - Co-host on Fox NFL Sunday

Hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana, Terry Bradshaw became a legendary quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, leading them to four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s. His remarkable skill earned him a Pro Football Hall of Fame spot. Transitioning from the field, he emerged as a charismatic sports analyst and co-host on "Fox NFL Sunday."

After retiring, Terry, a three-time Pro Bowler, has been delighting fans on reality TV and as a recording artist, offering glimpses into his personal life. Continually in the public eye, he remains a beloved figure in American culture, his legacy extending far beyond his gridiron achievements to a diverse and enduring career.

Penelope Keith - Margo Leadbetter from The Good Life

Born in 1940, Penelope Keith captivated audiences as Margo Leadbetter in "The Good Life," her most celebrated role. This performance, alongside her charming appearances in "To the Manor Born," solidified her status as a British sitcom icon. Honored as a Dame for her contributions to the arts and charity, her accolades include a BAFTA award, highlighting her distinguished acting career.

Beyond the limelight, Penelope devotes herself to theater, charitable work, and being Actors' Benevolent Fund president, actively engaging in her passions. Her enduring impact on British television and her ongoing commitment to the arts and community work make her a venerable figure in the entertainment industry.

Gok Wan - Presenter on How to Look Good Na*ed

Elevating fashion to a form of self-empowerment, Gok Wan gained fame with his hit show "How to Look Good Na*ed," showcasing his unique ability to boost confidence through style. This breakthrough led to a series of successful TV projects, including "Gok's Fashion Fix" and "Gok's Clothes Roadshow," where his flair for fashion and charismatic personality shone.

Beyond television, he's authored books on style, adding writer to his versatile repertoire. His influence extends into the culinary arts, hosting "Gok Cooks Chinese," blending his heritage with his love of cooking. His journey from a humble Leicester background to a multifaceted media presence inspires many, continually embracing new challenges and ventures.

Penny Smith - Presenter on GMTV

With a career that blossomed in 1987, Penny Smith is best recognized for her engaging tenure as a presenter on GMTV, Britain's acclaimed breakfast television program. Her dynamic presence and sharp journalistic skills endeared her to a wide audience. With her novels and a non-fiction book reflecting her diverse creative abilities, her talents extend into writing.

Additionally, Penny made her mark in radio, contributing to BBC London and TalkRadio. Her career trajectory showcases a seamless transition from TV to literature and radio, illustrating her versatility. She continues to captivate audiences today, maintaining her status as a respected figure in British media.

Maria Whittaker - Glamour Model and Page 3 Girl

Maria Whittaker became a notable figure in UK pop culture, earning fame as a glamour model and a celebrated Page 3 girl in the British tabloids during the 1980s. The 1968-born pop singer's allure extended beyond modeling as she tried her hand at music, releasing singles that showcased her versatility.

Born in Hounslow, London, she later chose a more private life, transitioning from the limelight to focus on personal projects, including becoming a practicing nutritionist. This shift signifies her journey from a public persona to embracing a quieter, more personal path, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Maria's career and personal evolution.

Erika Eleniak - Shauni McClain from Baywatch

Catapulting to fame with her role as Shauni McClain in the iconic TV series "Baywatch," Erika Eleniak became a beloved figure in the 1990s. This role, coupled with her appearance in the film "Under Siege," showcased her acting range, earning her a devoted fanbase. The Glendale-born thespian initially gained attention as a Playboy Playmate, paving her way to Hollywood.

Beyond her notable acting career, Erika also focuses on inspiring others by sharing her experiences through motivational speaking and writing. Her transition from a celebrated actress to a source of inspiration underscores her personal and professional growth journey, engaging a new audience beyond the screen.

Pauley Perrette - Abby Sciuto from NCIS

Best known as Abby Sciuto on the hit TV series "NCIS," Pauley Perrette captured viewers' hearts with her distinctive performance. Born in New Orleans in 1969, her role on the show not only gained her immense popularity but also showcased her versatile acting skills.

Aside from her successful television career, she's also known for her involvement in music, contributing to various projects. Transitioning from the fast-paced acting world, she dedicates time to advocacy, social causes, and directing, using her platform to effect positive change. This shift from a beloved TV star to a passionate advocate highlights her commitment to making a meaningful impact off-screen.

Patsy Kensit - Suzette from Absolute Beginners

Emerging from Lambeth, London, Patsy Kensit gained fame through her standout role in the 1986 film "Absolute Beginners." Her captivating performances extended to music, where she fronted the band Eighth Wonder in the 1980s. Her dynamic career saw her receive accolades such as the Glamour Award for UK TV Actress.

Beyond her notable works, she embraced reality TV, participating in shows like "Celebrity Big Brother." Patsy continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, appearing in "EastEnders," blending acting and music. Her journey from a promising actress in London to a multifaceted entertainer showcases her enduring talent and ability to evolve with the ever-changing landscape of showbiz.

Shania Twain - Singer of Come On Over

Born in 1965, Shania Twain catapulted to global stardom with her iconic album "Come On Over," securing her numerous Grammy Awards. Her chart-topping hits are just one facet of her remarkable career. Her versatility extends to acting, and she's authored a bestselling autobiography. Today, she continues to captivate audiences with her magnetic stage presence and timeless hits.

Shania remains a beloved figure in the music industry, with her journey from a small Canadian town to international acclaim serving as a testament to her enduring talent and unwavering influence. Having released "Queen of Me," her sixth studio album, in 2023, she embarked on a highly-anticipated world tour.

Carol Vorderman - Resident Maths-Whizz on Countdown

A prominent figure in British television, Carol Vorderman is celebrated for her long-standing role on the quiz show "Countdown" as its resident math whizz. Her contributions earned her numerous accolades, including an MBE for services to broadcasting. Beyond her famed role, she's an accomplished pilot, holding multiple aviation records.

The broadcaster-writer and media personality actively engages in charitable work, focusing on educational initiatives. Carol's journey from a quiz show icon to a trailblazing aviator and philanthropist showcases her diverse talents and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. The showbiz veteran likes to keep busy with various projects like presenting "The Pride of Britain Awards."

Christopher Quinten – Brian Tilsley From Coronation Street

Christopher Quinten, the beloved former "Coronation Street" star, made headlines in 2019 when he became engaged to Robyn Delabarre, who was reportedly 40 years his junior. Before that, he'd been absent from our screens for a while, despite making a name for himself on the aforementioned show.

He played one of the show's most popular characters, Brian Tilsley, the son of Ivy and Bert Tilsley. Following his departure from "Coronation Street" in 1989, he played in the box office hit sequel "Robocop 2," the ITV comedy series "Surgical Spirit," and had a guest role on the BBC soap opera "Doctors."

Leeza Gibbons – Co-host On Entertainment Tonight

Among her many accomplishments, Leeza Gibbons is the host of AARP's "My Generation," a lifestyle program broadcast on over 250 public TV networks. In 1981, she gained widespread recognition as a correspondent for "Entertainment Tonight," and she went on to even greater fame as a talk-show host in the '90s.

During her time in the radio industry, she presided over the popular program Blockbuster "Top 25 Countdown with Leeza Gibbons."

Gibbons won three Daytime Emmys as host and executive producer of her eponymous talk show, which aired from 1994 to 2000. Despite her apparent absence from the spotlight in recent years, she is very much alive and thriving.

Stephen Meadows – Peter Flint From Santa Barbara

Compared to teen idols and graduates of drama schools, Stephen Meadows is one of those actors who had a later start in the industry. His acting career didn't begin until he was in his thirties, but before that, he was an architect and lecturer at institutions like Santa Monica College.

He's mostly known for his roles in "Santa Barbara" and "One Life to Live." Meadows has had roles in a wide variety of films and television movies, including a pivotal one in the '90s film "Sunstroke." Meadows has no plans of slowing down, as he is still very much working in the entertainment industry and as an architect.

Steve McFadden – Phil Mitchell From EastEnders

The veteran actor Steve McFadden has played a wide variety of roles over the course of his career. But his role as Phil Mitchell in the long-running British soap opera "EastEnders" stands out as the most remembered. He's been acting in the soap for almost 30 years and is still a main character on the show. The 2016 British Soap Awards presented him with the Outstanding Achievement Award for his efforts.

McFadden also hosted the intense game show "Britain's Hardest." The seasoned actor has been in several films and television shows before, including "Murder in Mind," "Provoked," and "Kevin & Perry Go Large."

Tommy Steele – Arthur Kipps From Half a Sixpence

English entertainer Tommy Steele is often cited as the country's earliest pop idol. One of Britain's most multifaceted celebrities, Steele is also a talented singer, songwriter, actor, and sculptor. He became a household name when his skiffle band, The Steelmen, became popular in the UK.

In the '60s, Steele established himself as a versatile performer, starring in both stage and screen musicals like "The Happiest Millionaire," "Half a Sixpence," and "Finian's Rainbow." His contributions to entertainment and philanthropy brought him the highest of accolades. Steele was first honored as an "Officer of the Order of the British Empire" in 1973 and then "Knighted" in 2020.

Ade Edmondson – Daniel Cook From EastEnders

TV veteran Adrian Edmondson has been a fixture in some of Britain's most famous comedic series for decades. Even though he is best recognized for his comedic roles, his resume includes appearances in shows like "Jonathan Creek" and "Holby City" as well as movies like "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." Many of our favorite movies and TV shows have featured him, including the classics "The Young Ones" and "Bottom."

In 2013, he won "Celebrity Masterchef," and in 2019 and 2020, he played the role of Daniel Cook on the BBC soap opera "EastEnders." All these achievements have contributed to him becoming a legendary figure in British entertainment.

Brian Murphy – George Roper From Man About the House

Hollywood veteran Brian Murphy has appeared in dozens of films throughout his career. His acting career began with comedies like "The Boyfriend," and he has continued to impress with his range for well over 60 years.

His incredible acting abilities shined through in films like "Man About the House," in which he depicted George Roper. Comedy-drama shows like "Last of the Summer Wine" and "Wizadora" both featured him as a lead actor. A living example is that there is no age limit on originality and talent. The celebrated performer is still active and shows no signs of slowing down despite his advanced age.

Freddie Fletcher – Raymond Shepherd From Queenie’s Castle

Freddie Fletcher is a well-known actor who played the antagonistic sibling Jud Casper in Ken Loach's groundbreaking 1969 film "Kes." But did you know that Fletcher had never acted before? He was a painter and decorator before the film's success led to him landing several roles on television, including the character of Raymond Shepherd on the long-running comedy series "Queenie's Castle."

His final film appearance was as Judd, a bartender, in the 1996 film "When Saturday Comes." Even though he hasn't been seen in a movie in quite some time, the actor and his wife Joy are enjoying a quiet life in Grimethorpe.

Barrie Rutter – Douglas Fairbanks Shepherd From Queenie’s Castle

Barrie Rutter has been in the spotlight since the '60s, making him an experienced stage and screen actor. His credits include "Silver Dream Racer," "The Saint: The Brazilian Connection," "Countdown to War," and "Queenie's Castle."

He is a successful actor, creator, and former artistic director of Northern Broadsides. In 2015, he received the honorary title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his years of service. Although Rutter is still very active on the entertainment scene and is immersed in theater works today, he's stayed out of the spotlight, and very little about his private life is public knowledge.

Tony Caunter – Jack Shepherd From Queenie’s Castle

British actor Tony Caunter is noted for his roles as Jack Shepherd on "Queenie's Castle" and Roy Evans on "EastEnders" between 1994 and 2003. He's been acting since the '30s, and his industry contributions are still a relevant topic of discussion today.

He left "EastEnders" in 2003 after nine years but continued to star in films like "The Mind of Mr. Soames," "A Twist of Sand," and "Up Jumped a Swagman" during the '60s and '70s. Nowadays, he's retired from show business and is spending his golden years in East Sussex with his wife of many years, Frances Wallace, and their four children.

Martine McCutcheon - Tiffany Mitchell From EastEnders

It's incredible what Martine McCutcheon has achieved over the years as an artist, given her childhood's less than favorable conditions. She was only twelve when she appeared in a Kool-Aid commercial. Since then has steadfastly continued on a journey of exploring her diverse interests in acting, singing, and writing.

Among all Martine's creative pursuits, the one that catapulted her to superstardom was her three-year stint as Tiffany Mitchell in EastEnders ending in 1998. In cinema, her role in Love Actually further added to her fame. She followed it up with song releases that consistently ranked high on the UK charts. More recently, Martine's been busy doing reality TV shows.

Gillian Taylforth - Kathy Beale From EastEnders

English actress Gillian Taylforth is the only remaining original cast member of EastEnders, having played Kathy Beale since 1985. Although she left the BBC soap opera in 2000 to try other projects, she returned to it in 2015 and continued to charm the audience with her brilliant performance. Suffice to say; the fans were delighted.

In the fifteen years away from the show that made Gillian a household name, she shone in a string of others like The Bill and Footballers’ Wives. Meanwhile, in 2008, she also competed in Strictly Come Dancing but couldn’t perform well due to the knee injury she sustained while rehearsing.

Robert Kazinsky - Sean Slater From EastEnders

Like several young aspiring actors before him, Robert Kazinsky too began his career appearing in commercials before landing minor roles in television dramas. His turning point arrived sooner than he thought in the form of Sean Slater, the character he'd play for the next three years starting from 2006 in the epic soap opera EastEnders.

After leaving the series in early 2009, Robert made his film debut in Red Tails. His performances in popular television shows like True Blood and the sci-fi movie Pacific Rim garnered him further recognition. In 2019, Robert returned to his roots to reprise the role of Slater for a much-anticipated cameo.

Anita Dobson - Angie Watts From EastEnders

If you are a fan of British soap operas in general, you'll be able to recognize the theme music of EastEnders immediately. The song is called Anyone Can Fall In Love and Anita Dobson sang it. She played The Queen Vic's landlady Angie Watts in the soap opera for three years, ending in 1988.

The producers tried to tempt her back into reprising her iconic role, but Anita refused emphatically. For years after that, she focussed on her musical career as a singer while appearing in several stage productions and movies. After working hard for so many years, Anita's currently enjoying a quieter life with her husband, Brian May.

Tom Watt – Lofty Holloway From EastEnders

While some people have other career beginnings before delving into acting, Tom Watt is different. The EastEnders star studied drama at Manchester University, directing several plays before landing his primary role on television with the much-loved soap opera.

Tom is as talented as they come. Apart from acting, he's had successful stints on radio and in music, presenting sports shows for several networks like talkSPORT and Cable TV as well as singing with the New Order band. Also, did you know the broadcaster is an accomplished writer? Yes, Tom ghost-wrote David Beckham's autobiography My Side, which even won him an accolade at the British Book Awards.

Jack Ryder – Jamie Mitchell From EastEnders

Since EastEnders hit the screens in 1985, it has provided fans with countless emotional moments. Yet none beats the scene when Jack Ryder's character Jamie Mitchell passes on after being run over by a car. That episode drew in over 25 million viewers, making it the most famous moment in the smash hit soap opera's history.

Jack had his career set out for him with such a vast following, but he chose to go more into directing instead of acting onscreen. The star has directed several plays and television shows and has also successfully tried his hand at writing, penning the best-selling children's novel Jack's Secret Summer.

Ben Hardy - Peter Beale from EastEnders

Fans of the British soap opera Eastenders will easily remember Ben Hardy as the young actor who portrayed Peter Beale in the show for two years. Ben appeared in the soap between 2013 and 2015 before calling it quits on Walford to find greener pastures in the lights of Hollywood.

Undoubtedly, Ben has achieved considerable success within the corners of Hollywood, featuring in some of the well-acclaimed blockbusters, including Bohemian Rhapsody and Xmen: Apocalypse. In a recent interview, the actor revealed that he departed Eastenders because of a feeling that he was becoming too complacent and lazy in his acting career, thus feeling the need to push for more.

Adele Silva – Kelly Windsor From Emmerdale

Emmerdale famed actress Adele Silva brought the character, Kelly Windsor, to life on the silver screen for a vast stretch of time, on and off between 1993 and 2011. She trained at the Sylvia Young Theatre School with ambitions of becoming an actress. Her breakthrough performance was a role in Doctor Who. Apart from these, she has also appeared in shows such as The Bill and EastEnders.

With regards to Emmerdale, Adele played one of the most daring roles in television which made her an iconic figure. That’s probably why she was invited to participate in top reality shows like Fear Factor and Hell’s Kitchen.

Sam Strike – Johnny Carter From EastEnders

Widely considered one of the most talented young lads in the business, Sam Strike is already making massive strides in the film business despite his young age. The star rose to fame after playing Johnny Carter on EastEnders, with his performance winning him several accolades.

Sam's endeavors don't end there, though. The young man has appeared on several hit television series and films, including Leatherface and The Dark Tower, which have brought him further critical acclaim. With Sam's remarkable talent and young age, we bet the actor is set to rock our hearts for many more years to come while earning some big bucks in the process.

Sean Wilson - Martin Platt From Coronation Street

Sean Wilson was barely out of his teens when he landed the role of Martin Platt in the soap opera Coronation Street in 1985. His character got so well received by the audience that he portrayed it for two decades. Yet, when the producers came up with a storyline that expected Sean to romance a very young lady, he quit, returning only briefly in 2018.

By then, Sean's heart lay elsewhere and it was challenging to continue acting even though it had gotten him everything he had. So, he bid adieu to showbiz in 2009. Ever since then, Sean has been nurturing his passion for cooking and cheesemaking instead.

Helen Flanagan - Rosie Webster From Coronation Street

Helen Flanagan is a stunning actress who’s currently in the blissful bubble of motherhood, having given birth to her third child with partner Scott Sinclair in early 2021. She had just reprised the role of Rosie Webster in Coronation Street in 2017 when she left the show a year later on maternity leave.

Fans had waited quite a long time to see Helen, who had first appeared in the soap opera in 2000. Her impressive performance had everyone mesmerized for a dozen years before the star left to pursue her interest in reality shows. In fact, she’d already appeared on many until the fictional world of dramas beckoned her again.

Emmett J. Scanlan - Brendan Brady From Hollyoaks

Hollyoaks put Emmett J. Scanlan in the public eye; his immersive performance as the bad boy Brendan Brady added an edge to the character that caught the audience and critic's attention alike. Understandably, all that adoration translated to him winning awards for every year he was part of the soap opera from 2010 to 2013.

His decision to move on has proved fruitful. Emmett has continued to play diverse characters of great magnitude in some of the best projects on television, ranging from The Fall, Safe and more recently The Deceived in 2020. Clearly, he was born to act.

Samia Longchambon - Maria Connor From Coronation Street

Samia Longchambon's first foray into acting was when she did a cameo in Coronation Street at the tender of eight. We doubt if the little girl had any inkling that she'd become a regular on the popular soap opera a decade later. Even though Samia appeared in several dramas growing up, her flawless portrayal of Maria Connor made her a star.

Over two decades of stellar performances, the role has only added to her incredible fanbase. Not only that, but Samia also seems pretty beloved by her co-stars. On the actresses' social media, they all had adoring reactions to a casual picture of Samia with her handsome husband, Sylvain Longchambon.

Denise Black - Denise Osbourne From Coronation Street

In a thriving career spanning four decades, Denise Black holds the honor of being part of two long-running British soap operas. She essayed the role of Denise Osbourne to perfection in Coronation Street for six years before quitting the show in 1997. In 2013, she joined the cast of Emmerdale and soon became an incredible asset to the series till her character met a fatal end in 2017.

Besides appearing in several other television shows, Denise has also been part of the band The Loose Screw as a singer. Acting keeps her pretty occupied, though, with her recently playing Bibi in the historical film The Lady of Heaven.

Angela Griffin - Fiona Middleton From Coronation Street

Angela Griffin started her journey into acting by playing Fiona Middleton in the popular soap opera Coronation Street from 1992 to 1998. People loved her as the ambitious and hardworking hairdresser. So much so that fans were thrilled to see her return briefly for a cameo in 2019.

Over the years, we can see how busy Angela has kept herself appearing in several television dramas like Cutting It and Holby City. As much as she loves to act, she’s also in her element as a perfect presenter in reality programs like The One Show and Angela and Friends. Angela recently even hosted BBC Radio 2’s Unwinds.

Kevin Kennedy – Curly Watts From Coronation Street

Kevin Kennedy rose to fame after starring in Coronation Street, playing Curly Watts for two decades. Yet, that isn’t the star’s only significant role; he has headlined several blockbusters like Rock of Ages, Mrs. Brown’s Boys, and Doctors, among others.

While Kennedy is a seasoned actor, he is also a talented singer with three hit albums under his belt. Apart from his Hollywood and music career, the actor runs Kennedy Street recovery services with his wife. The company offers home-based detox, free telephone advice, and providing coaching and professional opinion to people in business. An admirably noble venture for one of the most loved soap opera stars of today!

Joanna Lumley – Elaine Perkins From Coronation Street

With over five decades worth of experience in showbiz, Joanna Lumley is among the most respected actresses of our time. She has starred in over ninety films and television shows, including an unforgettable appearance in the fan-favorite soap opera Coronation Street.

While most of her peers are now enjoying their retirement, Joanna is still massively involved in showbiz, and she doesn’t seem like planning to retire anytime soon. As popular as she is, the actress puts her fame and immense fortune into good use, raising awareness on several issues as well as supporting numerous charities, including Survival International and Tree Aid.

Charles Lawson – Jim McDonald From Coronation Street

If you have watched Coronation Street, then you have most likely come across Jim McDonald, a character who seemed always to get himself in trouble. Charles Lawson played the part to perfection, and it’s no wonder he held the role for eleven years.

Apart from his stint in the beloved melodrama, Charles has over twenty film and television credits to his name, underlining his talents. The actor is now in his sixties, and while many people expect him to be retired, he’s still going strong. It won’t be surprising to see Charles on our screens in a leading role again soon.

Bruce Jones – Les Battersby From Coronation Street

Life is full of ups and downs, and celebrities, too, aren't immune to what the rest of us go through. Bruce Jones knows this better than anyone; the Coronation Street star has had a rollercoaster of a career, which at one point even led to him filing for bankruptcy.

Since making his on-screen debut, Jones has starred in several productions, including Cream and Soulboy, which brought him loads of money. Yet, some financial mismanagement caused the actor some financial problems, but he's not one to give up quickly and is now gearing up to appear in his upcoming movie, Cold Sun.

Michelle Keegan – Tina McIntyre From Coronation Street

Michelle Keegan rose to fame after starring in Coronation Street, a job she landed after only her second audition, beating over 900 other contestants. That was no mean feat to achieve, and the star embodied the character to perfection, winning the fans’ hearts worldwide.

After she left the show, Michelle appeared in countless productions like Our Girls, Ordinary Lies and Brassic, all of which were huge successes. Considering that she’s in her thirties, we bet there is more to come from the talented young actress, and we can’t wait to see what blockbusters Michelle will be headlining in the future.

Stephanie Davis – Sinead O'Connor From Hollyoaks

Stephanie Davis has had a spectacular rise to the top from starting her acting career just eight years old to becoming a mainstay character on Hollyoaks. The actress now has several film and television show credits under her name, including Doctors.

While Stephanie has not been on television since 2016 due to some personal issues, her talent remains undoubted. We're pretty confident that she won't be short of offers if she decides to go back to the big screen. For now, Stephanie prefers spending time with her boyfriend and creating videos for her social media.

Tracy Shaw – Maxine Peacock From Coronation Street

Tracy Shaw is a famous English actress whose performance as Maxine in the popular soap opera Coronation Street propelled her to international glory. After her stint on the melodrama ended, the star went on to appear on a couple of other productions, all to critical acclaim.

She's widely considered one of the most multitalented celebrities the business has ever seen. Apart from her acting prowess, Tracy is also a prolific singer. She's got several hits like Happenin' All Over Again in her portfolio. Unfortunately, it has been a while since Tracy appeared on the big screen, but we hope she'll make a comeback soon.

Kate Mcgregor - Emily Kirk from Emmerdale

Very few stars are lucky enough to mark their place in the entertainment industry with their debut role, and the actress Kate Mcgregor is one of them. Starting her career in 1999 with her character of Emily Kirk from Emmerdale, her performance was one of the key reasons that led the program to survive for eight long years.

Strangely after exiting the show in 2007, Kate never did any acting assignments again and later launched the Learning and Skills Council’s Learner Awards for the Lancashire area in 2008. However, being a private person, we believe she must be enjoying her family life and hope that she would make a comeback.

Emily Symons - Marilyn Chambers-Fisher from Emmerdale

Born in Australia, Emily Symons has worked in both Australian and British TV industries. Even though she began her career with Richmond Hill in 1988, which only lasted for a year, her stardom came after she started playing Marilyn Chambers-Fisher in the Australian-based soap opera Home and Way that ran for ten years, beginning in 1989.

After moving to the UK, the actress played another long-term role in Emmerdale and even participated in the British reality show Dancing on Ice in 2007. However, Emily's destiny took her back to where she began as she rejoined the Home and Away team in 2010 and has been working in it since then.

Malcolm Hebden - Norris Cole from Coronation Street

The prestigious Rose Bruford Drama School alumni, Malcolm Hebden, is a well-known theatre and British television artist. In his 48 years of a long-acting career, this actor has worked in quite a few TV shows and had given a brief appearance in the film Lost for words too.

Above all, the one role that grabbed viewers' attention was the Norris Cole character from the soap opera Coronation Street where he gave his 22 years. Luckily, his dedication to the show paid off as he won the Inside Soap Award twice under the funniest character category. At age 81, Hebden bid goodbye to his career and is currently enjoying his retirement.

Julie Goodyear - Bet Lynch from Coronation Street

The member of MBE, Julie Goodyear, is a veteran actor who dedicated the majority of her career years to the long-running show Coronation Street with her portrayal as Bet Lynch. So, there is no doubt that the actress got real recognization from the soap opera that brought her further acting opportunities.

With age, Julie’s acting appearances reduced drastically, especially after 2004. However, she continued appearing on the television by participating in quite a few reality shows like Road Raja, Age Swap and was last seen in Celebrity Big Brother in 2012. Also, lately, she has been doing many charity works and reportedly raised £16,000 by donating her famous character’s jewelry.

Thelma Barlow - Mavis Riley from Coronation Street

With over half a century career span, Thelma Barlow has a tremendous television career and had been a part of many popular shows like Dinnerladies, Doctor Who, Where the Heart Is. Still, her breakthrough role was Mavis Riley from Coronation Street.

Additionally, she is also a writer and had written a book named Organic Gardening With Love which was initially published in 1992 and was republished with a different title in 2000. The actress, who is in her 90s, last worked as a voiceover artist in Florence Foster Jenkins in 2016, and we assume she would like to relax her coming years and cherish the legacy she left behind.

Lucy Pargeter - Halen Raven from Crossroads

Lucy Pargeter is a British actress who became an onscreen sensation portraying Helen Raven in the well-acclaimed TV show Crossroads. After her stint on Crossroads, Pargeter joined the television series Emmerdale in 2002. Since then, Pargeter has shown remarkable display portraying the Chas Dingle character.

In 2019, she won an award for her portrayal of the character at the Britsh Soap Awards. Before the actress became a soap star, she was a girls' pop band member called Paperdolls. Her singing group experience helped her finish third in the celebrity reality singing show Soapstar Superstar.

Cindy Marshall-day - Tracy Booth from Crossroads

Many people know Cindy Marshall-day as the famous Tracy Booth character in the British TV running series Crossroads. While the soap made the beautiful actress famous, her first stint on the screen was when she appeared as an extra in the horror-comedy Dracula: D**d and Loving It

Since after her role in Crossroad — which often involves her tumultuous relationship with on-screen husband Jake booth, Marshell-day has not been active on the screen. The last time she was on screen was when she appeared in an episode of the Afternoon Play, titled Jonny Shakespeare.

Ellis Hollins - Tom Cunningham from Hollyoaks

At the young age of three, Ellis Hollins began playing the role of Tom Cunningham in the Channel 4 TV series Hollyoaks and immediately captured the hearts of fans. Besides appearing in Hollyoaks, Hollins also played the role of Nathan Lamia in the 2006 movie Alpha Male.

The British soap-award-winning child actor has won numerous other prizes, including three times Best Young Actor at the Inside Soap Awards between 2005, 2006, and 2008. His last notable screen appearance was in 2012 when he featured in the BBC Radio 4 drama The Beautiful Ugly.

Sheree Murphy - Tricia Dingle from Emmerdale

Sheree Murphy is an English actress and TV presenter who came into wide recognition when she began starring as Tricia Dingle in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale in 1998. After spending about six years on the famous show, Murphy took a career break to enable her to spend more time with her family.

The next time Murphy would be on the screen was in 2005, when she appeared in the ITV reality show I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here. The actress also made some appearances in other shows, including the Australian soap opera Neighbors. Presently, she acts as a presenter in the BBC One series Yes Chef.

Dawn Acton – Tracy Barlow From Coronation Street

Dawn Acton is renowned for her role as Tracy Barlow in Coronation Street for quite a long time between 1988 and 1999. Yet her stint was cut short when at the age of 22 she had her baby son. Still, her performance was impactful enough for us to remember her even after all these years.

Acton studied at the Oldham Theatre Workshop to become an actress and was proficient at that. Sometimes though our priorities change and Acton chose to be with her son. Currently, she is working as a DJ for over 15 years. Clearly, once an artist, always an artist as they say.

Tina O’Brien – Sarah Platt In Coronation Street

Best known for her role as Sarah Platt in the ITV show Coronation Street Tina O’Brien is an actress who is stuck in our hearts. Other performances in her filmography include the role of Bex Fisher in the BBC show Waterloo Road which though short was equally remarkable.

She began her career quite early on, starring in dramas one after another, and has won the best newcomer award for her Corrie role from the National Television Awards. Besides a busy professional life, nowadays the actress is involved with charitable organizations such as the Animals in Distress Sanctuary.

Beverly Callard – Liz McDonald From Coronation Street

Anybody who has seen Coronation Street is bound to remember Beverly Callard in the role of Liz McDonald. She is also enormously popular as Flo Henshaw in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps. Callard made her acting debut when she was all but seven and after leaving school began taking up one acting assignment after another.

Apart from television, Callard is a regular at the theatre. She has also released books and exercise videos that are equally popular. With repeated appearances on GMTV and This Morning, she now has her own fitness page in the Daily Mirror!

Helen Worth – Gail Platt In Coronation Street

Helen Worth has made her name for herself playing Gail Platt in Coronation Street. She has been in this role since 1974 and for her incredible performance, won the Outstanding Achievement Award at The British Soap Awards. Studying at drama school initially, Worth began working in repertory theatre from where she gradually built her career.

The veteran actress has no plans to leave Coronation Street and has explicitly stated that she enjoys the trajectory of the character. In interviews, she has expressed her gratitude to the writers of the show for giving her a great plot in the course of all these years.

Ryan Thomas - Jason Grimshaw From Coronation Street

Ryan Thomas was just 16 years old when he joined Coronation Street. Years later, he decided it was time to move on and try other opportunities offered to him , and this has proven to be a good decision for him.

He played the role of Rafael Humphreys in the Australian soap opera Neighbours which aired on Channel 5. Ryan also became a fixture on reality television, joining Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls in 2017 and Celebrity Big Brother in 2018 whereby he emerged the winner.

Sammy Winward - Katie Addyman From Emmerdale

Sammy Winward appeared on Emmerdale for more than 14 years, playing the role of Katie Sugden. The then-budding star hit with a thud that got her nominated at the National Television Awards for the Most Popular Newcomer award and remained a fan favorite all through.

After leaving the popular ITV soap opera, Sammy went on to other notable productions such as Prey and Fearless. In 2021, the star guested on the talk show Loose Women along with her daughter Mia, where she revealed that she had been invited for a return guesting on Emmerdale as a ghost but had declined.

John Altman - Nick Cotton From EastEnders

English actor John Altman was among the original cast members of EastEnders. He started playing the role of Nick Cotton on the BBC soap opera in 1985 and was a part of the show until his last appearance in 2015.

Aside from acting, John is also a singer, and in 2010 he was announced as the new lead singer of the band Heavy Metal Kids, replacing the late Gary Holton. In 2021, fans will get to hear the actor in a radio soap opera that will be airing in community radio stations across the UK.

Simon Gregson - Steve McDonald From Coronation Street

For over three decades, Simon Gregson has been a part of ITV’s long-running soap opera Coronation Street. His character, Steve McDonald, is well-loved by fans of the show, and they were happy to learn that he has fully recovered after battling illness last year.

Viewers of Coronation Street need not worry about Simon’s future in the series, as he is reportedly among the big stars who have been offered new contracts by management to ensure that they will still be part of the soap for at least the foreseeable future.

Sophie Powles - Holly Barton From Emmerdale

Before appearing on Emmerdale, Sophie Powles had guest appearances in other well-known dramas, including Holby City, Dalziel and Pascoe, and the short-lived Britannia High. Then in 2009, Sophie landed the role of Holly Barton on ITV’s soap opera, and this became her most notable role to date.

Sophie’s acting was acclaimed by critics and fans, but in 2011 she decided to quit the show. The actress reprised her character on Emmerdale in 2016, but she called it quits again after just six months. This time, her character passed away due to substance abuse, and her performance was widely praised by audiences.

Jenna Coleman - Jasmine Thomas From Emmerdale

After her well-loved portrayal in the soap opera Emmerdale, Jenna Coleman has kept on turning heads with many notable acting roles. She played Clara in Doctor Who and got nominated for a BAFTA for the performance. Her title role in the acclaimed ITV series Victoria was also well-received.

Just when the next season of Victoria will air is still unconfirmed, but fans of Jenna have something else to look forward to. According to the latest announcement, she will appear in the upcoming drama The War Rooms. Jenna will be playing Joan Bright, the innovative woman who thought of Winston Churchill’s secret bunker in Whitehall.

Tom Lister - Carl King From Emmerdale

Tom Lister provided a lot of smoldering moments on Emmerdale throughout the eight years he was a regular cast member of the show. As the incorrigible ladies man Carl King, he was a character that fans either loved or loathed. Yet all viewers of the ITV show were sad when Tom bid farewell to the series in 2012.

After Emmerdale, Tom moved on to other acting roles in programs such as Doctors, Heartbeat, and The Bill. He has also tried his hand in several pantomime productions, including playing Captain Hook in Peter Pan. The part fulfilled something Tom had always dreamed of: performing in musical plays.

Sian Reese-Williams - Genesis Walker From Emmerdale

Actress Sian Reese-Williams masterfully portrayed the character of Genesis Walker in Emmerdale, much to the delight of long-time viewers. Yet in 2013, she decided it was the right moment to pack up her bags and find other things to do. So the writers of the soap opera had to write off her character from the storyline.

Sian has gone on to bag significant acting roles on TV. She depicted a police officer in Line of Duty and a secretive former patient in Holby City. Currently, Sian plays a detective in the psychological drama thriller Hidden, filmed in her hometown of North Wales.

Peter Amory - Chris Tate From Emmerdale

As a regular cast member, Peter Amory had quite a run on the long-running soap opera Emmerdale. His portrayal of Chris Tate endeared the actor to countless viewers. Peter was in almost 1,500 episodes of the show from the 1980s to the 2000s.

Surprisingly, the actor's personal relationships have been just as dramatic and engaging in real life as his on-screen roles. Back in 1994, Peter married actress Claire King, who played his stepmother on Emmerdale. Yet the two split up after ten years when Peter started seeing another actress, Samantha Giles, also from the same soap's cast.

Natalie Anderson - Alicia Metcalfe From Emmerdale

Besides her scene-stealing turn in Emmerdale, Natalie Anderson also showcased her remarkable acting talents in The Royal. This multi-talented West Yorkshire-born star likes to keep herself busy with writing, producing and she even joined the 2009 London production of Wicked- Talk about having a hat with many feathers!

2021 became a notable year for Natalie's showbiz career after being cast in the action-thriller called Memory. Directed by Casino Royale's Martin Campbell, the project boasts a powerhouse cast featuring A-listers like Liam Neeson, Monica Bellucci, and Guy Pearce. Suffice to say, Natalie's big-screen debut will be pretty spectacular and we think she's ready for this next exciting chapter in her life.

Stephen McGann - Dr. Patrick Turner From Call The Midwife

Born in Kensington, Liverpool, Stephen McGann is famously known for his role in the medical drama Call the Midwife. He is one of the longest-serving cast members as he has been on the show since it first aired. As a theatre lover, this star has featured in West End musicals, Blood Brothers and Footloose and TV shows like Emmerdale, The Strauss Dynasty, and The Hanging Gale.

Apart from acting, Stephen also has a master’s degree in Science Communication and occasionally does public speaking. With two books already published, this multi-talented creative has also added best-selling author to his already diverse and thriving career.

Andy Devine - Shadrach Dingle From Emmerdale

Not to be confused with the late American actor, Andy Devine is an accomplished British entertainer in his own right. His breakthrough role was in Emmerdale, where he played Shadrach Dingle for a decade. Beginning his career in the sixties, Andy has featured in numerous acclaimed projects like Doctor Who, Coronation Street, Heartbeat, and The Girl From Tomorrow.

The veteran star has now retired from show business and lives away from the cameras in his boathouse. In his downtime, Andy prefers mingling with the locals at the pub. Early retirement doesn't seem like a bad idea when you've had such a successful career as this icon.

Sarah Lancashire - Raquel Watts From Coronation Street

From radio to the theatre, movies, and TV, Sarah Lancashire has tried it all when it comes to the entertainment industry. After graduating from Guildhall School of Music and Drama, she kicked off her career by teaching drama classes at the university. Before long, the Oldham-born actress found fame after featuring in Coronation Street, Clocking Off, and Seeing Red.

For her accomplishments in showbiz, Sarah is an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), appointed in 2017. After signing a two-year contract with ITV network, this star even became the UK's highest-paid female lead and given Sarah's phenomenal talent, that's no surprise.

John Savident – Fred Elliot From Coronation Street

Starting as a policeman in his early days, John Sadivent eventually found his passion in the performing arts. His career took off after starring in Coronation Street as the romantic butcher Fred Elliot and fans loved him immediately. John also featured in several other projects like Yes, Minister and A Clockwork Orange.

After being on Coronation Street for over a decade, John finally quit so he could spend more quality time with his family in Hertfordshire. Since then, he has made small appearances in some shows, including a special episode of Holby City and Doctor Who, where he voiced Pendle's character.

Alan Halsall - Tyrone Dobbs From Coronation Street

Most notably known for his role in Coronation Street as Tyrone Dobbs, which he has played since 1998, Alan Halsall is an award-winning actor. Apart from the long-running soap opera, the English actor has also starred in Heartbeat, Matt’s Million and Hetty Wainthropp Investigates.

Proud father to his daughter Sienna, Allan is a doting parent and loves to share the cute moments the two spend together on social media. They often go for vacations with the star’s girlfriend, Tisha Merry, who he met on set and has been going strong with ever since. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for this talented young entertainer.

Brian Capron - Richard Hillman From Coronation Street

Before his breakthrough from playing the Villain in Coronation Street, Brian Capron played the role of social worker Don Worthington on the show. He has also appeared in other films such as the children’s series Grange Hill, Birds of a Feather, and his sitcom Full House.

The soap star isn’t on our screens much now since Coronation Street as he takes on smaller roles and leads a quiet life with his family in Hove, Sussex. He at one point shared that his TV character affected his family and especially his son and how it was also hard for him to detach from the character in real life.

Bruno Langley - Todd Grimshaw From Coronation Street

Former English actor Bruno Langley sure didn’t have the loveliest of exits from the acting scene, but he did a good one while his time there lasted. Bruno was remarkable with his Todd Grimshaw role in Coronation Street where he was the show’s first gay character.

He was also part of the famous Romeo And Juliet adaptation and also played Adam Mitchell in Doctor Who. After leaving Coronation Street, Bruno recently announced his plunge into the music space and revealed that he is working on new music. You bet right; the star is going to blow up as a musician too, in no time!

Craig Fairbrass – Delmar From Call The Midwife

Craig Fairbrass has played the hardman with the weird nickname in almost all his films, from Deranged and Hijacked to St. George’s Day. While Craig’s films barely blew up, they have always had a small but pretty loyal fanbase. The British star has been a familiar face in action films since Sylvester Stallone’s Cliffhanger in 1993.

He has also been on The Queen & Country alongside Denzel Washington, and his most recent ones; 2019’s Muscle and 2020’s Villain have no doubt brought him back on the track of the brilliant career path. We honestly can’t wait to see how many more ace films Craig stars on going forward.

Nick Berry - Simon wicks From EastEnders

While he looks almost unrecognizable now, retired English actor and pop singer Nick Berry wasn’t always your average person. Though he was on and off the industry before leaving for good, he always did his film stints major justice.

Berry sprung to fame as Simon Wick in EastEnders, which he left for Heartbeat before going onto Harbour Lights. In between, the film legend had a fleeting pop career as well, where he released his single, Every Loser Wins, and became the second biggest-selling UK record that year. He disappeared from TV after filming In Deep in 2003 to focus on his family.

Paul Nicholls - Joe Wicks From EastEnders

No one could portray schizophrenia as good as Paul Nicholls in EastEnders and this coupled with his hunk look, the actor quickly became a favorite of many in the 90s. Despite having started acting way back at age ten in Children’s Ward, Nicholls found it hard to deal with the newfound fame.

He may have struggled with substance abuse for most of his lifelong career and even talked openly about it, but that hasn’t put him down once. We absolutely loved him on Law & Order: UK, Ackley Bridge, and Crossbridge, and are glad that he is now doing great.

Gemma Merna - Carmel McQueen From Hollyoaks

The famous face of British soap opera Hollyoaks may have left the entertainment industry in 2017, but she will be forever known for her phenomenal character portrayal of Carmel McQueen. Working for eight straight years from 2006 to 2014 in the show, Merna has won millions of hearts with her exceptional comedic timing.

Still, the former model has not left inspiring people yet, and is currently working as a personal yoga instructor and owns an app for the same too. In addition, she also works as a teacher at the Liverpool Yoga Studio, which proves how passionate she is about creating a healthy society.

Lucy Benjamin - Lisa Fowler From EastEnders

Starting her career at the young age of 13 with Doctor Who in 1983, Lucy Benjamin appeared in numerous TV shows throughout her career. Starring on programs like Close to Home and Press Gang, Lucy only got special recognition after being cast as Lisa Fowler in EastEnders.

Later, after leaving the show in 2003, the actress gave some on-off appearances while simultaneously working on the other projects before finally leaving its sets in 2020. The X Factor: Battle of the Stars' winner was last seen in Doctors and is currently working in the film Game of Two Halves which is expected to release by the end of 2021.

Maisie Smith - Tiffany Butcher From EastEnders

Actress Maisie Smith, who started with professional singing training from Leigh-on-sea-based Singer Stage School, eventually bagged her first role as a child actor in The Other Boleyn Girl, released in 2008. By the age of six, she landed a second project in EastEnders, and through her impressive portrayal of Tiffany Butcher, it didn’t take her long to become a regular in the program.

Maisie also gave tough competition to her contenders in the reality show Strictly Come Dancing and reached the finals. The actress is planning to quit EastEnders again, which she rejoined in 2018 to fulfill her Hollywood dream, and we wish her all the best.

Eileen Derbyshire - Emily Bishop From Coronation Street

Only one female actor in British television history gave her entire career to a single soap opera, and Eileen Derbyshire is that star! Starting her career in 1961, the actress portrayed the most popular character of Emily Bishop in the show Coronation Street for a jaw-dropping 55 years.

Obviously, for her long-serving career, she was granted the title of MBE in 2010. The mother of famous sports journalist Oliver Holt finally bid goodbye to the show in 2016 and eventually took retirement from acting after making a small cameo in 2019. Here's wishing her a happy retirement!

Paul Henry - Benny Hawkins From Crossroads

Starting his formal acting training from the reputed Birmingham School of Speech and Drama, Paul Henry worked for eight long years in the Birmingham Repertory Theatre before stepping into showbiz. So, it didn't take him long to land his first role in Crossroads playing Benny Hawkins with a polished craft, which brought the man both name and fame.

Still, Henry's love for the stage never faded away, and he occasionally made appearances on it with plays like Run for Your Wife and Hancock's Finest Hour. Being in his 70s, the actor has not made any official statement of retirement and is enjoying quality time with family.

Claire Cooper - Jacqui McQueen From Hollyoaks

Actress Claire Cooper may have started her career in 1999 with some brief stints in Red Dwarf and Waterloo Road, but her career graph boosted after joining Hollyoaks playing Jacqui McQueen. Giving seven years to the show also brought her recognition and got her the British Soap Awards under the Best Actress category in 2013.

Later, Cooper did several cameos and was seen in 12 Monkeys and Knightfall, with a two-episode appearance in 2020's Strike Back being the most recent one. The same year, the actress was blessed with a baby boy, and we assume she's concentrated on raising her child before making an impactful comeback.

Nick Pickard - Tony Hutchinson From Hollyoaks

If you are a fan of the soap opera Hollyoaks, then it’s most likely that you love the character of Tony Hutchinson! So why wouldn’t it be? The character played by Nick Pickard has served the show since the first episode and had brought the best out of it.

The actor did not just stick to his famous role portrayal but also participated in several reality shows, a few of which are Soapstar Superchef and Pointless Celebrity. Through his charismatic craft, Pickard has completed a silver jubilee on Hollyoaks, and given his charm on set, we bet he could attain a golden jubilee as well.

Jessica Fox - Nancy Hayton From Hollyoaks

Stepping into the entertainment industry in 1992, Jessica Fox began her career as a voice-over artist for the movie, Ghost of Christmas Past and later did several minor roles in shows like The Bill. Nevertheless, even after being part of several programs, Fox’s portrayal of Nancy Hayton From Hollyoaks is considered her breakthrough role which she has been doing justice to, since 2005.

Apart from her contribution to showbiz, Jessica is also an active supporter of Cancer Care and often hosts awareness events. We sincerely hope that this artist with a golden heart will continue to secure more success in the future.

Jennifer Metcalfe - Mercedes Queen From Hollyoaks

Jennifer Metcalfe is a British actress popularly known for playing the fierce Mercedes Queen on Hollyoaks for over a decade. Her character has been the center of major captivating storylines in the soap and even won several prominent awards.

Jennifer rarely made appearances in other shows aside from her work on Hollyoaks and only took a break in 2017 when she welcomed her son with Geordie Shore actor Greg lake. When she is not acting, the soap star runs her clothing store alongside two of her co-stars. Jennifer also works as a fitness instructor whenever she can spare some time.

Jeremy Edwards - Kurt Benson From Hollyoaks

In 1995, Jeremy Edwards rose to fame with his beloved role as Kurt Benson in Channel 4's Hollyoaks and stayed till 1999 before joining the BBC's medical drama Holby City. From here on, the actor appeared in several other high-profile shows and soaps, including ITV's ever-popular Emmerdale.

To the surprise of many fans, Jeremy returned to Hollyoaks' 25th anniversary in October 2019 but left the show again two months later. In a tweet the following year, he revealed his decision to permanently leave the soap opera altogether, disappointing many but hinting at a much bigger project ahead.

William Roache - Ken Barlow From Coronation Street

ITV's Coronation Street got recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-running TV soap opera and its cast member William Roache as the world's longest-serving soap star. The actor who played Ken Barlow was present from the very first episode and described it as a lifetime of beautiful memories.

William has been on Coronation Street for 60 years now and only took a break after facing some health issues. He insists that retirement is not in his plans yet, even in his 80s, and hopes to recover quickly to get back to the show. We can't help but applaud this veteran performer's dedication to his craft.

Julie Hesmondhalgh - Hayley Cropper From Coronation Street

Julie Hesmondhalgh stole the hearts of many TV viewers with her spectacular portrayal of Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street. Julie's interpretation of the role was so captivating that it won her several awards, including the 2014 National television Award for Best Performance in Serial Drama.

After being on the show from 1998 to 2014, the talented actress appeared in the BBC film Black Roses among numerous other movies and prominent shows. Aside from acting, Julie is also incredibly passionate about volunteering and participating in fundraising communities to help those less privileged.

Nikki Sanderson - Candice Stowe From Coronation Street

There is never a dull moment with Nikki Sanderson. She starred on one of the most iconic soaps of all time, Coronation Street, since she was 15, playing Candice Stowe. Yet, after six years, the beautiful actress and model left the show despite remaining a massive hit with the audience.

Since then, there's been no slowing down in mind for Nikki. Upon leaving the role of Candice Stowe in 2005, she moved on to her second big soap appearance as Maxine Minniver in Hollyoaks. Now in her late 30s, the actress has already got several other prominent TV credits under her belt and recently even ventured into the music industry.

Nathalie Emmanuel - Sasha Valentine From Hollyoaks

Nathalie Emmanuel got her big break on TV through the British show Hollyoaks. Ironic, as this beauty initially felt like being on the program would limit her. You see, it's rare for soap opera actors to transition to other genres of TV and film.

If only Nathalie knew that she was the actress that would break the glass ceiling and go as far as starring in major blockbusters like Game Of Thrones and Fast and Furious! Nowadays, the performer, who's also a fitness enthusiast, looks forward to more diverse roles that will solidify Nathalie as the versatile star that she is.

Lacey Turner - Stacey Slater From EastEnders

Lacey Turner's fighting spirit is enviable. Not even the most challenging life situations, including two miscarriages, have stopped this beauty from being a ray of sunshine and a source of hope to others.

Now a mother of two, the actress prides herself with more than thirty awards to her name. While Lacey appreciates the recognition, the EastEnders performer believes the best use of fame is to ensure that one impacts others positively. It's evident that her attitude in life has been a major contributing factor to the phenomenal success Lacey enjoys today.

Sally Dynevor - Sally Webster From Coronation Street

According to some performers, if an actor plays a role long enough, the line between reality and life on TV sometimes becomes blurry. That's probably Sally Dynevor's experience; she's played Sally Webster on Coronation Street since 1986. Yet, in her case, we're confident that this star only appreciates all the good qualities she has borrowed from her on-screen character.

When Sally is not rehearsing lines or shooting, she is busy traveling the world for charity. A cancer survivor, the altruistic performer, is thankful for getting a second chance at life, which Sally makes sure she never takes for granted.

Roxanne McKee - Louise Summers From Hollyoaks

Roxanne McKee's extraordinary demand in the U.S showbiz industry eventually got her to relocate from Britain to Los Angeles. Through her role on Hollyoaks, this actress cemented herself as a noteworthy performer, instantly capturing the attention of American casting directors.

Roxanne, who's also a model, was terrified by the idea of competing against 35,000 people for a spot on the iconic British soap opera. Yet, the opportunity was perfect for this thespian to prove that she had more than just good looks to offer. Roxanne's body of work, if you ask us, speaks for itself. She is an entertainer with a lot more than just fabulous beauty to offer.

Barbara Knox - Rita Tanner From Coronation Street

Barbara Knox has portrayed the character of Rita Tanner on Coronation Street since 1964. Instead of spending her sunset years relaxing, this actress would much rather invest in her work and relationships, which are all building blocks for the legacy she wants to leave behind.

So when she isn’t on set shooting, Barbara is with her three children, loving them, making memories, and sharing valuable life lessons that she has picked up on the way. This world would undoubtedly be a better place with happier people if we all approached life like the acclaimed thespian, irrespective of our age.

Ioan Gruffudd - Dr. Daniel Harrow From Queenie’s Castle

Despite being on numerous successful productions, fans believe that it's Ioan Gruffudd's role on the box office hit Titanic, which earned this actor his legendary status. Yet Ioan isn't just an average performer that you can box and add a simple description to.

The Welsh-born leading man is an all-around entertainer with notable contributions in theater, film, TV, video games, and even music. Ioan, who currently plays the lead character on ABC's Harrow, recently announced that he had parted ways with his wife of 14 years. He will instead be focusing all his attention on his two children from the marriage.

Rachel Shenton - Mitzee Minniver From Hollyoaks

Before Rachel Shenton became the notable actress we know today, she was an extra on various TV productions until landing a permanent role on Hollyoaks. This beauty is one of those few British actors who also enjoy success in the US TV and film industries, a market that is said to be difficult to break into, let alone gain recognition in.

Rachel’s late father lost his hearing to chemotherapy. From a young age, this prompted the performer to immerse herself in projects that raise awareness on the plight of the hearing impaired. These days, the Oscar winner lives with her husband, fellow actor Chris Overton in central London.

Sean Maguire - Aidan Brosnan From EastEnders

After being cast on the BBC's Grange Hill, Sean Maguire rose to prominence at the age of just 11. Looking back, the actor, who now proudly describes himself as an over-protective dad, says he needed more guidance to help in navigating his then newly found status as a child star.

After years of being on TV, Sean ventured into film and later music, releasing only three albums before hanging up his musician's boots and returning to his first love, acting. The lesson here; while you might be good at various things, it's perfectly fine to direct all your efforts on the one thing you're genuinely passionate about.

Ben Kingsley - Ron Jenkins From Coronation Street

Unquestionably, Ben Kingsley is an embodiment of talent. The English actor is well respected and famous for his role as Mohandas Gandhi, for which he received both a BAFTA and an Academy Award. Besides, many people are unaware that the Oscar winner appeared on the British soap opera Coronation Street as Ron Jenkins between 1966 and 1967 before gracing the big screen.

Even as a stage performer for fifteen years, Sir Ben did remarkably. His career has flourished for decades, and he is still very active. He was spotted on an Anglesey film set, so we know we'll be seeing the actor soon based on this hint.

Keira Knightley - Sheena Rose From The Bill

Keira Knightley is a Hollywood powerhouse with a lot to her name. Aside from her incredible talent, the flawlessly beautiful actress has been nominated for several prestigious awards, and she has won a few of them in their numbers. Kiera holds three Golden Globe and two Empire Awards, among other honors.

From the age of six, she began appearing in stage commercials and minor television roles before landing the role of Sheena Rose in British series The Bill. Knightley is still keen on entertaining us as she starred in the holiday comedy Silent Night.

Jessie Wallace - Kat Slater From East Enders

Despite her training as a makeup artist, Jessie Wallace did well to establish herself in Hollywood as a remarkable talent. She played a variety of roles before landing the one she is best known for today. On the popular BBC soap opera EastEnders, she portrayed Kat Slater.

The actress has received several awards for her work on EastEnders and her role in the BBC Four drama The Road to Coronation Street. Though Jessie was suspended for a second time by the BBC in 2020 for breaking some rules, she returned to work after two months.

Anna Friel - Beth Jordache From Brookside

At the peak of her career, Anna Friel had a health scare that she thought she would never pull through. More than two decades after her emergency surgery and this star is grateful to both be alive and for the opportunity to make a living from doing what she loves, which is performing.

The Golden Globe and Emmy Award winner has starred in more than 50 TV shows and films across Europe and the U.S. We have to admit that Anna has quite an impressive portfolio for someone who is still only in her forties! At this pace, the Brookside star has an even brighter showbiz future ahead of her.

Michelle Collins - Cindy Beale From EastEnders

Michelle Collins is one of several actors we know who began their career in the theater before moving on to the big screen. At Kingsway Princeton College, the English actress earned her A/O level in theatre and drama. Soon after her A levels, she joined a band for eighteen months before landing her acting role.

Michelle is best known for her portrayal of Cindy Beale in the popular BBC soap opera EastEnders. Following her appearance on the soap, the actress landed other roles in BBC dramas and her role as Stella Price on Coronation Street.

Jude Law- Nathan Thompson From Families

Jude Law is one of Hollywood's early adopters, beginning with stage roles as a teenager before moving on to minor roles in British television series. Jude played Nathan Thomas on ITV's soap opera Families for two years.

Shopping, a British crime drama, was Jude's major film breakthrough, after which the actor took on several acting roles that made him famous and qualified him for several awards. He is currently the recipient of a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. In addition, Jude is set to appear in the American Adventure fantasy film Peter Pan and Wendy in 2022.

Kate Ford- Tracy Barlow from Coronation Street.

She is best known for her role as Tracy Barlow in the British soap opera Coronation Street where she first appeared in 2002, a few years after featuring in The Beatles music video. She briefly left the show in October of 2007 but returned in 2010 and is still actively playing her character in the ongoing show.

For her incredible performance, Ford has won the awards for ‘Best Bi*h’ ‘Best Actress and ‘Best Storyline.’ Some of her smaller appearances include in shows like EastEnders and Blue Mud*r, but the bulk of her work is with the series that put her in the limelight.

Martin Kemp- Steve Owen from EastEnders

There is a general misconception that Martin Kemp is a music pop star who decided to pursue acting from his days as a bassist in the Spandau Ballet band that he was involved with his older brother Gary. The reality, however, is that he started his acting classes at the tender age of eight.

His big break would come from the soap opera EastEnders where he played the role of Steve Owen. The now turned director has appeared in such shows as The Glittering Prizes, Dixon of Dock Green Jackanory, and The Tomorrow People*.

Letitia Dean- Sharon Watts from EastEnders

The renowned British singer and actor is famous for her portrayal of the character Sharon Watts from EastEnders a role she has stepped out of twice; Nevertheless, the star has since reprised the role with an incredible return in 2012, making her one of the four remaining original cast members of the beloved soap opera.

In addition to her television work, Letitia occasionally makes appearances in pantomimes. She has been a staple face for some fairy tale ones like Snow white, playing the fairy godmother in Cinderella as well as the Wicked Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Linda Davidson- Mary Smith from EastEnders

Being one of the original cast members of the soap opera EastEnders, it is not such a surprise that Linda Davidson would be best known for her role as the wayward character Mary Smith who struggled with unemployment and acceptable societal norms.

She had an avid interest in writing, but the projects did not go far other than fueling her switch in career when she retired from the creative roles of acting and joined organizational communication roles like BBC Discovery and even Channel 4. Her transition could not have been better, for she now is a director of a Global Transformation Program Group.

Paul Loughran- Butch Dingle from Emmerdale

Paul Loughran has starred in many TV shows, but he is perhaps best known for playing the role of Butch Dingle in the series Emmerdale even though later on, his character was written off in a tragic bus accident. He has won the BAFTA award for his exceptional acting after appearing on renowned shows like Coronation Street, Casualty, The Royal among others.

Loughran’s voice also graced the Britain airwaves in a broadcast when the voice of Gerry Adams was forbidden from being broadcast. He has had a quite successful career in acting and is a member of the infamous Soap Opera Actor list.

Jack P. Shepherd - David Platt From Coronation Street

Before Jack P Shepherd gained his spot among famous Actors, he made minor appearances in several episodes of Clocking Off and Where the Heart Is. Perhaps these roles were baby steps into the limelight for the actor as Jack got to play David Platt in Coronation Street in 2000.

Even though he was involved in theatre work like West Side Story aside Coronation Street, Jack dedicated adequate time to each production. He played his David Platt part to perfection, which attracted countless honors and that, we believe, has inspired him to write and direct plays like he does now. His recent piece, The Cutting Edge premiered in early 2020.

Michelle Ryan - Nimueh From Merlin

Michelle Ryan’s teenage years were filled with plenty of acting work as she was a member of a local theatre team in her early teens. At just sixteen, she landed a role on the famous EastEnders in 2000, performed for five years, and built a strong reputation for herself.

Right after EastEnders, she appeared in other theatre works, which was just the beginning of her shine. Michelle’s breakthrough finally arrived when she starred on Merlin as sorceress Nimueh for three years. Consequently, she’s been consistent in the industry as she’s been thriving on the show Cockneys vs. Zombies since 2012.

Wendi Peters – Cilla Battersby-Brown From Coronation Street

Television shows aren’t the only ventures that brought the English actress Wendi Peters wealth as she also joined many stages by appearing in plays and musicals. She even worked with stellar personalities like Jonathan Miller and John Godber.

Wendi’s career on TV started blooming after she was cast on Bad Girls and numerous other series, but her fame finally came through when she played Cilla Battersby-Brown on Coronation Street in 2003; she left the show but returned in 2014. Not only is she an excellent actress, Wendi knows her way around the kitchen too, as she’s good at baking and cooking, eventually leading herself to many cookery programs.

Ricky Whittle - Calvin Valentine From Hollyoaks

Ricky Whittle’s future in modeling was quite clear for him coming from college as he took it up in the early 2000s. Amazingly Ricky excelled in the business so well that he even became the face of Reebok at that young age, which enabled him to drop out of school even before graduation.

Two years after, he made his acting debut in Dream Team and explained how it was a dream come true for him. Later in his career, Ricky was offered the character Calvin Valentine, from Hollyoaks, a significant stepping stone in his career. He stayed on the show for nine years and is currently on American Gods.

Sue Nicholls - Audrey Roberts From Coronation Street

After graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, Nicholls made her debut in the filming industry as Marilyn Gates on Crossroads. She was on the show for four years, and during that time, released a chart-topping song in June 1968, which was just the beginning of her shine.

Sue dived further into music in the seventies, but it didn’t really go as planned, so she refocused on acting and appeared in several films until ‘79. Then, she got the part for Audrey Roberts on Coronation Street, and that marked her acting breakthrough. Although there was a break in ’84, we’re glad she has returned to the limelight again.

Ashley Slanina-Davies – Amy Barnes From Hollyoaks

When a big heart meets a talented person, it makes Ashley Slanina-Davies as she’s a sweet person who enjoys contributing to the well-being of others through notable charity work. An example is when Ashley participated in a fundraising event for Action For Blind People in 2006.

Aside from her loving personality Slanina-Davies is quite a reputable actor given the spectacular roles she played on shows like Dancing on Ice and especially Hollyoaks. Ashley’s career elevated when she was cast as Amy Barnes on the same soap. Although we don’t know what she’s up to now, her impressive networth must mean she’s still in the business.

Steven Arnold - Ashley Peacock From Coronation Street

What better way is there to start a career than with your sibling? We’re pretty sure Steven Arnold might know because he came up from the basics with his younger brother. The duo made appearances on the show Children’s Ward and that genesis was good enough for Arnold as it later got him parts on top-shelf TV series.

Coronation Street turned his career around when he played Ashley Peacock on the show. Amazingly, Steve stayed with the show for fifteen solid years, but according to him, his timekeeping wasn’t as expected, and that, unfortunately, cost him his job. As a result, Steve retired shortly after his exit.

Patsy Palmer – Bianca Jackson From EastEnders

From 1985 to 1987, Patsy Palmer gained recognition from countless people when she starred in the kid’s drama series Grange Hill as Natasha. Even though it propelled her to the top, Patsy’s popularity widened even more when she played Bianca Jackson on EastEnders amidst several breaks; but she’s still on it!

Her fantastic career started from home when her mom noticed her talent and made sure she enrolled in Anna Scher’s Acting School. Fortunately for the lady, acting was a safe haven since she had to deal with several bullies back at school, and it’s incredible how this has helped her craft up to this time.

Michael French – David Wicks From EastEnders

Born in Bow, London, Michael French started to put himself on the stage as early as in his school days the actor was working with school productions and local drama clubs. Fast forward to his early twenties, he worked with the Holiday Club International away from home.

At about 22, Michael moved back to London and struggled briefly with his acting career, even working as an air steward at some point. Later in 1993, he landed a significant role on EastEnders as David Wicks, which brought him much of his fame. We’re pretty sure he’s still acting, but he was last sighted on The Sound Of Music in 2014.

Susan Tully - Michelle Fowler From EastEnders

From hosting the children's program Our Show at the age of nine to becoming the notable character of Michelle Fowler from EastEnders, Susan Tully made quite an impactful image in British television. Oh, but the actress didn't just stop here.

After leaving the show in 1995, she made a big transition from acting to directing and later proved that she could bring the same magic by staying behind the camera. Since 1999, Tully has directed and produced several shows like The Bill, Funland, Good Cop, and had recently worked on the mini-series Too Close released in 2021.

Gary Lucy – Luke Morgan From Hollyoaks

Gary Lucy is quite the mountain summit of actors as he was cast in numerous shows back in his prime; maybe he hasn’t even left his peak yet since he’s currently a part of The Full Mony musical. He was all over TV as he landed in shows like EastEnders, Missing, and The Bill.

Somehow we can give all the props to the soap opera Hollyoaks as it played a massive role in showing Gary the roadmap to success. Although Gary’s part wasn’t entirely the most loved, it got him the recognition he needed and even got him an award for the Best Newcomer during the 2000 British Soap Awards.