Gillian Taylforth has been a familiar face on EastEnders for decades, portraying the iconic Kathy Beale since the soap’s very first episode in February 1985.
Over the years, Kathy has been involved in some of Walford’s most dramatic storylines, from turbulent relationships to shocking returns.
While her on-screen character has had plenty of ups and downs, Gillian’s real life has been just as eventful, featuring romance, heartbreak, and strong ties to the acting world.
A Soap Opera Legend with a Dramatic On-Screen Journey
Kathy Beale’s introduction to EastEnders saw her as the devoted wife of Pete Beale, the twin brother of Pauline Fowler and uncle to Martin Fowler.
As the years went by, Kathy’s life in Albert Square became increasingly complicated, particularly due to her volatile marriage to Phil Mitchell.
After things fell apart with Phil, Kathy left Walford in 1998, moving to South Africa with their son Ben and her new husband Gavin Sullivan. Though she made brief appearances in 1999, she seemingly bid farewell for good in 2000.
However, in a shocking twist, it was later revealed that Ian Beale had been misled into believing his mother had died in a car accident. In 2015, Kathy stunned fans by making a dramatic return to EastEnders, proving she was very much alive. Since then, she has continued to be at the heart of gripping storylines, including the recent cover-up of Keanu Taylor’s death. In one of her most shocking moments, she even attempted to kill Cindy Beale by striking her with a snow shovel on Christmas Day.
Ageless Beauty and Fan Favourite
Gillian Taylforth has long been admired for her youthful appearance, often sparking discussions about her age among EastEnders fans. In September 2022, the soap paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after her passing, during which Kathy revealed she was 73 years old, suggesting she would now be 75.
However, in reality, Gillian was born on August 14, 1955, in Islington, North London, making her 69 years old. Despite the passing years, she remains as glamorous and captivating as ever, continuing to be one of EastEnders’ most cherished stars.
A Real-Life Romance with a Co-Star
Much like her on-screen counterpart, Gillian has had an interesting romantic history. In the 1980s, she was involved in a relationship with her EastEnders co-star Nick Berry, who played Simon Wicks. Despite their characters having a stepmother-stepson relationship in the soap, Gillian and Nick dated for three years, from 1985 to 1988.
Tragic Loss and Heartbreak
Following her split from Nick Berry, Gillian found love with Geoff Knights in the late 1980s. The couple had two children together, Harrison and Jessica, and shared a long relationship.
Tragically, in 2013, Geoff passed away at the age of 58 after battling stomach cancer, marking a devastating loss for Gillian and their family.
Finding Love Again
In 2015, Gillian began a relationship with Dave Fairbairn. At the time, Dave was facing his own health battle, as he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Two years later, Gillian shared the good news that Dave had recovered.
However, despite their happiness, the couple ultimately decided to part ways, and their engagement was called off in 2019.
A New Romance
More recently, Gillian has reportedly found love again with Philip Oag. The couple was seen together in October 2023, and sources suggest their relationship began in 2022.
According to reports, Philip has even moved into Gillian’s home, and the couple is said to be deeply in love. Friends and fans alike are delighted to see her happy once more.
A Talented Sister in the Acting World
Gillian isn’t the only Taylforth to make a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Her sister, Kim Taylforth, is also a well-known actress who has made appearances in several British soaps.
Kim’s career began at the age of 15 with a role in Steptoe and Son. She later went on to appear in Hollyoaks, The Bill, and Family Affairs, establishing herself as a familiar face on British television.
One of her most well-known roles was playing Marilyn Fenner in Bad Girls. She has also starred in Operation Good Guys and London’s Burning, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Outside of television, Kim has taken to the stage, performing in pantomimes across the UK. She has often played roles such as the Wicked Queen or the Good Fairy, adding another layer to her impressive career.
A Thriving Career Beyond EastEnders
Although EastEnders has defined much of Gillian’s career, she has taken on many other television roles. During her time away from the soap, she proved her acting abilities in a variety of genres.
She starred as Jackie Pascoe in Footballers’ Wives, bringing to life the glamorous and dramatic world of footballers and their partners. She also played Sergeant Nikki Wright in The Bill, taking on the role of a strong and determined police officer.
Gillian has also made guest appearances in several British dramas, including Casualty, where she portrayed MP Justine Walker in an episode titled Parent Trap, playing a mother trying to mend her fractured family.
Before returning to EastEnders in 2015, she had a two-year stint in Hollyoaks, playing Sandy Roscoe.
Stepping into Reality TV
Beyond acting, Gillian has also explored the world of reality television. In 2008, she took part in Strictly Come Dancing, showing off her dance moves to the nation.
In 2013, she also participated in Celebrity Big Brother, though she was the fourth contestant to be eliminated from the competition.
A True Soap Icon
From her unforgettable role as Kathy Beale to her real-life experiences of love and loss, Gillian Taylforth’s journey has been filled with remarkable moments. Her enduring presence on EastEnders and her success in other television roles have made her one of Britain’s most beloved actresses.
With her talent, resilience, and undeniable charm, Gillian continues to captivate audiences both on and off the screen, solidifying her status as a true soap legend.
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