EastEnders star Kellie Bright has portrayed the character of Linda Carter on the show for almost 13 years, and she comes from a family of actors as well.
Playing the role of the matriarch of the Carter family, Linda has faced various challenges and intense storylines since joining Albert Square in 2013. From battles with alcoholism to enduring a traumatic assault, having a brief affair with Max Branning, and dealing with the presumed death of her childhood love Mick, Linda has been through a lot.
During a dramatic turn of events on Christmas Day in 2023, Linda fatally injured Keanu Taylor at The Queen Vic while he was attempting to harm Sharon Watts. Linda used a meat thermometer to stop Keanu, resulting in his immediate death.
Following the incident, Linda, along with Sharon, Kathy, Stacey, Suki, and Denise, collaborated to conceal the crime, with Nish Panesar taking responsibility due to his terminal illness diagnosis.
Subsequently, Linda and her mother Elaine Peacock sold The Vic and started a bed and breakfast business on the square. Despite a brief romance with Grant Mitchell, Linda is still searching for a new life partner, which might change soon.
Beyond her role in the BBC soap opera, Kellie Bright’s personal life differs significantly from her on-screen character. The 50-year-old actress from Brentwood is a mother of three sons – Freddie, Gene, and Rudy, with her husband Paul Stoker, whom she met while working together in a play.
In an interview, Kellie shared insights about their seven-year age gap and initial family plans. Despite initial concerns, their love for each other prevailed, leading to their marriage in 2014 in Cornwall.
Paul, known for his role in the movie “Atonement” alongside Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, has also appeared in various stage productions and films, including a stint on EastEnders as a policeman and later as a criminal at The Queen Vic.
His acting credits extend to shows like Casualty, Doctors, and a recent role in the podcast series Tagged.
“EastEnders” airs from Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer.