Gillian Wright, best known as Jean Slater on EastEnders, was previously married to Steve Wright, the vocalist of the synth-pop band Fiat Lux. The couple eventually went their separate ways after a few years together.
Marriage to Fiat Lux singer
Wright made her debut on the BBC soap in 2004 as Jean, mother of Stacey, played by Lacey Turner. Since then, Jean has become one of the show's beloved characters, involved in major storylines from bipolar disorder struggles to her split from Harvey Monroe, played by Ross Boatman.
Away from the soap, Gillian keeps her personal life low-key, but in her 20s she was married to Steve Wright. Fiat Lux was formed in 1982 and has released five albums and several singles, including Blue Emotion, which reached No. 59 in the UK charts in 1984.
Reason for the split
The couple separated due to incompatible tour schedules. Gillian told The Mirror: "He was touring Europe with the band Fiat Lux. I was touring the UK in theatre shows. We were lucky if we passed each other on the motorway."
The pair never had children, and Gillian revealed she did not regret the decision. She said: "We never had children, but that's not a regret. I don't think like that. It just didn't happen. But I've been very lucky with my career. I'm very happy and can't believe I'm in a big West End hit. I feel very, very blessed."
Other roles and current storyline
Although Gillian is best known as Jean Slater, she also appeared in Coronation Street as Yvonne for two episodes in 2005, and in Holby City playing two different characters, Lydia Rathbone and Candice Holloway. In 2006, she took on the role of Sharon Little in The Bill.
Recently on EastEnders, Jean has grown close to Priya Nandra-Hart, played by Sophie Khan Levy, who is pregnant with Max Branning's child, played by Jake Wood. EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.
