EastEnders star Diane Parish has given fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the 'emotional process' behind her character Denise Fox's hair loss journey as she battles Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), an aggressive form of blood cancer.
Behind-the-Scenes of the Bald Cap Creation
In a detailed Instagram post, Parish explained that the process was far from simple. 'Denise Fox losing her hair was a painstaking, lengthy and highly technical process. Not just a case of putting a cap on your head,' she wrote. The actress revealed that modern 3D scanner technology was used instead of traditional methods, which would have required her to sit with a straw to breathe while a prosthetic skull cap cast was built around her head. 'I'm super claustrophobic,' she admitted, adding that the 3D scan allowed the team to work on a realistic bust of her head over several weeks.
Filming the Emotional Scenes
The filming of two scenes depicting different stages of hair loss took two days, with Parish spending four to five hours in the make-up chair each day. She praised the make-up team—Caroline, Renee, and Ben Wadey—for their sensitivity and care throughout the 'harsh and emotional process.' Parish emphasized the importance of accuracy, stating, 'It was massively important to @bbceastenders and myself to do this justice and be as realistic and accurate as possible to honour and respect the seriousness of the cancer journey.'
Fan Reactions and Support
Fans flooded the post with praise, with one commenting, 'Heartbreaking scenes but incredible work.' Another wrote, 'This storyline is amazing, so proud of you @officialdianeparish.' A third viewer noted, 'I was so shocked when I saw it on TV, it looked so, so real! The team have done an amazing job, and your acting in this story has been next level.' A cancer survivor added, 'As a cancer survivor, I know exactly what it's like to lose your hair. It's the worst feeling ever! You are playing this part so well, what a great actress!'
Resources and Where to Watch
Parish directed followers to @bloodcancer_uk for information and @acltcharity and @anthon for donor registration. EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One. For support, Macmillan operates a free helpline at 0808 808 00 00, open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.
