Heather Peace opens up about her breast cancer journey, chemotherapy, surgery, and support from loved ones and the EastEnders team
EastEnders star Heather Peace has courageously shared her breast cancer diagnosis in an emotional video posted on social media. The 49-year-old, best known for playing Eve Panesar-Unwin on the BBC soap, revealed that she had been battling cancer since October 2024. Peace explained how the diagnosis led to months of chemotherapy treatment and surgery, with her chemotherapy journey now coming to an end.
In the heartfelt video, Heather reflected on the challenging yet transformative experience, describing how it felt like crossing the finish line of a marathon. “I woke up this morning and it was like the end of the London Marathon; I’d turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock & the finish line. To conclude – I’ve just picked up my medal,” she said.
The actress shared her appreciation for the support she received throughout the difficult time, especially from her wife Ellie and their three daughters, Annie, Jessie, and Lola. She expressed how grateful she was for her family’s strength, stating, “I’m just trying to appreciate every moment of them.”
Heather also thanked her colleagues at EastEnders for their exceptional support, particularly the makeup team who helped her through the process of fitting her wig. She paid tribute to the show’s cast and crew, saying, “Thank you to the whole EE team for going above & beyond. I’ve felt totally supported by you all.”
The actress acknowledged the role of the NHS in her recovery, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the care she received. “Thank you to the NHS. You are wonderful, skilled people. You treated me efficiently. You gave me dignity and showed me kindness. It’s so appreciated,” she wrote.
Heather, who joined EastEnders in 2021, has been a strong and inspiring presence on screen, portraying Eve Panesar-Unwin with depth and authenticity. Off-screen, Heather has a successful music career, having released five albums, the most recent of which was Hey Mayhem in 2018. Her fans know her not just as a talented actress but also as a gifted singer and musician.
The video, which Heather shared as a way to mark the end of her chemotherapy, touched many of her followers and fellow actors. Kellie Bright, who plays Linda Carter on EastEnders, praised Heather as a “warrior woman” and expressed her admiration for her strength. Actress Emma Barton, who portrays Honey Mitchell, also wrote a message of love and support: “Love you so much, you beautiful, strong, mental, brave lady… You’re frigging Ace!!!”
The actress’s openness about her cancer journey has resonated with many, providing hope and encouragement for others going through similar battles. Heather closed the video with an uplifting note, acknowledging that while life feels different now, she continues to feel blessed and appreciative of the love and support surrounding her.
“I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky,” she concluded.
