The Hawkins family officially arrives in Albert Square this week, bringing chaos to EastEnders. The clan is connected to series regular Nicola Mitchell, played by Laura Doddington, who gets the shock of her life on Monday, August 17, when sisters Gemma and Jodie arrive in Walford with a bang. They are not alone, as mum Rose soon follows, much to the chagrin of Nicola, who has a difficult relationship with her estranged mother.
Who plays Gemma Hawkins in EastEnders?
Gemma Hawkins is played by Patricia Potter, best known for her work on Holby City as Diane Lloyd. Diane appeared in the BBC One medical drama between 2002 and 2007, with subsequent appearances in 2019. Patricia is also known for her work on Doctors, where she played Jane Fairweather between 2016 and 2017. The actress has also appeared in numerous TV series over the years, including Brookside – as Victoria Seagram Wilcox – The Bill, Hollyoaks, Extras, and New Tricks.
Discussing her casting in EastEnders, Patricia said: 'I am so delighted to be joining this iconic show as part of a new family. What a joy and a privilege to be working with such talented actors and wonderful people. I couldn't be more excited and grateful!'
Who plays Rose Hawkins in EastEnders?
Rose is played by Marian McLoughlin, who soap fans will likely recognise for playing Luke Morgan's mum Sue in Hollyoaks back in 2021. She is perhaps best known as Marina Bonnaire in Doctors, a role she held between 2011 and 2012. In addition to playing various other roles in Doctors over the years, Marian also appeared in EastEnders previously as DCI Chapman for seven episodes between 1991 and 1993. The actress has starred in many TV shows including The Bill, Casualty, Holby City, Holby Blue, Foyle's War, and Midsomer Murders.
Who plays Nicola's sister Jodie in EastEnders?
Jodie Hawkins is played by Anna Constable, who previously starred in stage productions of Imposter 22 and A Small Enclosed Room, plus short film New Bloom. 'Growing up watching EastEnders I never thought a disabled actress like me could ever land a role like this,' said Anna of her casting. 'But here I am loud and proud and taking no prisoners in mine or Jodie's wake.'
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
