EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks has revealed that severe hip pain left her feeling as though she wanted to "chop my own leg off," and she is now considering surgery. The 45-year-old, best known for playing returning villain Janine Butcher, said she might need a hip replacement in the future but is currently managing the condition with weight training.
Pain and treatment
Speaking to Closer magazine, Brooks said: "Two years ago, my hip was so painful I wanted to chop my own leg off. I might have to have a hip replacement at some point, but for now I'm keeping it at bay."
The I'm A Celebrity winner explained that a surgeon advised her to "load it up with weights," and she now trains four days a week. She said she feels stronger, more energised and healthier in her mind, and that seeing her muscles grow is a massive motivator.
Lifestyle changes
Brooks, who used to run regularly, said she now walks 10,000 steps a day instead, and that getting her dog Flo helped with that. She added that she feels much healthier than she did ten years ago.
Return to Walford
Janine is set to return to Walford next month, with Brooks seen filming at a funeral and clashing with Linda Carter. Janine was last seen being arrested after Mick went missing, and her return could potentially trigger Linda's exit.
Brooks previously told Metro that she loves going back to EastEnders, calling it her "training ground," and said she would never say never to reprising the role of Janine.
