Actress Tamzin Outhwaite has shared a powerful and personal story, revealing that moving her cancer-stricken father into her family home has been instrumental in his survival. The EastEnders star, 55, made the heartfelt disclosure while celebrating her father Colin's milestone 80th birthday.
A Family's Fight Against Cancer
In an emotional Instagram post on Friday, Outhwaite detailed her father's arduous health journey. Colin, a former Black Cab driver, has battled and survived prostate cancer, which required the removal of his prostate, and lung cancer, which led to the removal of half a lung. He is currently undergoing treatment for cancers affecting his lymph nodes and skin.
Outhwaite credits eight years of 'multigenerational living' for giving her father the strength to endure intensive treatments, including multiple rounds of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. She posted a series of family photos, writing that they captured the period since her dad came to live with her and her two teenage daughters.
Practical Support and Emotional Bonds
The actress explained the practical steps taken to support her father's independence and wellbeing. One key decision was having a cabin built in the garden for him. "Having a cabin built in the garden for him to see out his end of life was one of my better decisions," she reflected on the challenges of care.
She also described how the family protected the vulnerable octogenarian during the COVID-19 lockdowns, with her daughters chatting to him through windows and meals being passed quickly indoors. Despite the ongoing strain of chemotherapy, which she acknowledged "isn't easy," Outhwaite said her father is currently navigating the treatment "beautifully."
There were moments of profound fear, with the family thinking they were losing him on several occasions. Celebrating his 80th birthday, therefore, held immense significance. "Congratulations Dad on reaching 80 … far older than your parents made and far older than you ever imagined too," she wrote.
An Outpouring of Support and Personal Reflections
The candid post prompted warm responses from famous friends and followers. Nicole Appleton of All Saints sent birthday wishes, while Myleene Klass and Nadia Sawalha responded with heart emojis and messages of support.
Outhwaite's update also touched on her focus on creating a stable, supportive home environment. This has been a priority following her 2014 divorce from actor Tom Ellis, after allegations of infidelity, and her more recent split from filmmaker Tom Child after a six-year relationship.
She has spoken publicly about supporting her eldest daughter, Flo, who is transgender, and last year praised her ex-husband Ellis when attending a premiere with their children. Currently, Outhwaite says she is content being single for the first time in her adult life.
Looking ahead, the actress ended her birthday tribute to her father on a hopeful note: "Rest up, keep eating, and once this round of chemo is done… I think a holiday is in order!"
