‘EastEnders’ Star Heather Peace Shares Positive Update After Cancer Diagnosis – “I’m Staying Strong”

In a heartfelt message that’s touched fans across the UK and beyond, EastEnders actress Heather Peace has shared a positive update following her recent cancer diagnosis — bringing a wave of hope, strength, and inspiration to everyone following her journey.

The beloved actress, who plays DI Samatha Keeble in the BBC One soap, first revealed her health battle to fans several weeks ago. Though details were initially kept private, Heather has now chosen to speak out — not only to reassure fans, but to help others going through similar experiences.

Taking to social media with a warm smile and emotional honesty, Heather wrote:

“Treatment has started, and I’m responding well. It’s been a whirlwind, but I feel strong, loved, and incredibly grateful.”

The message, accompanied by a candid photo of Heather in her cozy home surrounded by family, instantly went viral, with fans, co-stars, and fellow celebrities pouring in messages of love and support.

💬 “I’m staying positive — and staying me.”

In a video update later shared with fans, Heather thanked the NHS for their outstanding care and praised her family and EastEnders team for “rallying around me in the most incredible way.”

“There were tears, of course,” she admitted. “But I made a choice early on — to face this head-on. I’m staying positive. I’m staying me.”

Fans who have followed Heather’s journey from her early days in London’s Burning, Lip Service, and more recently, her powerful role in EastEnders, know her as a fighter — both on-screen and off. Her portrayal of tough, determined characters has often reflected her real-life strength, and that strength is shining through now more than ever.

🧡 A Wave of Support

The EastEnders cast was among the first to respond publicly. Co-star Kellie Bright (Linda Carter) tweeted:

“Heather, your light shines even through the darkest days. We’re all behind you 100%.”

Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell) shared in a statement:

“Heather is the kind of person who lifts up everyone else — even now, she’s lifting us. She’s family.”

Soap fans, charities, and cancer survivors have flooded Heather’s posts with stories, prayers, and encouragement. In particular, many women have praised her openness about her diagnosis, saying it gives them strength to share their own stories or finally book the check-ups they’ve been putting off.

🌸 Staying Grounded in Family and Routine

Heather, who is married to Ellie Dickinson and is a proud mother of three daughters, shared that her family has been her anchor.

“The girls keep me laughing. My wife keeps me grounded. And I keep reminding myself — this is just a chapter, not the whole story.”

She also revealed she’s continuing to take walks in nature, write music (a longtime passion), and even read over new scripts when she feels up to it.

“I’m not stepping away from life,” she said. “I’m stepping deeper into it.”

While she hasn’t confirmed whether she’ll be taking a temporary leave from EastEnders, the show’s producers have expressed their full support, stating:

“Heather is part of our EastEnders family, and we’re standing with her every step of the way. Her health comes first — always.”

🩺 Advocating for Awareness

In true Heather fashion, she’s using her platform not just to update fans, but to raise awareness.

“Early detection saves lives,” she said firmly. “If something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. Don’t wait.”

She’s since partnered with several cancer awareness organizations to amplify the message, encouraging screenings and offering hope to those newly diagnosed.

Her courage has even inspired the BBC to plan a short health awareness campaign featuring Heather’s voice — reminding the public that strength isn’t about being fearless, but about showing up in the face of fear.

🎭 What’s Next for Heather?

Though Heather’s focus is clearly on healing, she hasn’t ruled out returning to the set sooner than fans may expect.

“Sam Keeble’s got unfinished business,” she joked in a recent interview. “And so do I.”

Fans can expect her character’s storyline to remain flexible — with pre-filmed scenes airing in the coming weeks and potential breaks written into the plot if needed.