Samantha Womack, best known for her iconic role as Ronnie Mitchell in EastEnders, has made headlines with the announcement of her new role in what critics are calling “the decade’s biggest theatrical triumph” — the stage production of Dear England. Her casting in this critically acclaimed play has sparked widespread excitement among both theatre enthusiasts and longtime fans of the actress. This marks not only a significant artistic leap for Womack but also a profound demonstration of her range and continued evolution as a performer.
In Dear England, Womack steps into the role of Dr. Pippa Grange, a real-life sports psychologist who played a transformative role within England’s national football team under the leadership of Gareth Southgate. Rather than simply focusing on tactics or physical conditioning, Grange revolutionized the team’s mindset, helping players confront long-standing emotional barriers, fear of failure, and national expectations. The role demands nuance, insight, and emotional intelligence — all traits that Womack has consistently displayed throughout her illustrious television and theatre career.
The play, written by renowned playwright James Graham, is far more than a retelling of football history. It is a complex, deeply human exploration of national identity, pressure, masculinity, mental health, and the power of emotional resilience. First premiered at the National Theatre in London, Dear England received rave reviews for its fresh, intimate portrayal of contemporary British life through the lens of sport. The show is currently set to embark on a national tour across the UK, performing in major venues and drawing in audiences eager to witness one of the most powerful stories brought to the stage in recent years.
Womack has described the opportunity as “deeply moving” and “personally meaningful,” especially after reading the script and learning more about Dr. Pippa Grange’s groundbreaking work. In interviews, she revealed how much she resonated with the character’s strength, intelligence, and compassionate approach to leadership. Womack expressed admiration for Grange’s ability to navigate a male-dominated environment with grace and courage, helping a generation of athletes rediscover their inner strength through vulnerability rather than aggression.
Critics have hailed Womack’s casting as a “perfect blend of emotional depth and commanding presence.” The production’s director praised her natural gravitas and her ability to hold space for moments of silence, reflection, and intensity — all of which are crucial to a play that touches so deeply on the inner workings of the human mind. Her chemistry with co-star Joseph Fiennes, who portrays Gareth Southgate, is also said to be electric and compelling, creating some of the most unforgettable moments in the production.
For Womack, Dear England is more than just a role — it’s a personal milestone. In 2022, she publicly battled breast cancer and emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. That journey, marked by both physical and emotional healing, has added layers to her artistic expression. She has shared openly that post-recovery, she made a commitment to take on roles that challenge her, inspire growth, and have a meaningful cultural impact. Pippa Grange, a woman who leads others to mental strength through empathy, represents the kind of work Womack now seeks to embody.
As the national tour of Dear England kicks off in September 2025, theatre audiences across the UK will have the rare chance to witness Womack live on stage in a performance that many are already calling award-worthy. The play will stop at prestigious venues, including the Theatre Royal in Plymouth and the Lowry in Manchester, culminating in a series of shows at London’s West End in early 2026. Tickets are selling rapidly, with many nights already close to full capacity — a testament to the anticipation surrounding the production.
Beyond the excitement of the tour, Dear England touches on themes that resonate with a nation still grappling with questions of identity, tradition, and progress. The decision to tell a story about sports from the psychological and emotional perspective of its players — and through the voice of a female psychologist — is groundbreaking. It challenges the usual narratives surrounding masculinity in football and opens the door for deeper conversations about mental health and cultural change in competitive environments.
For fans of EastEnders, Womack’s return to the spotlight is bittersweet. While Ronnie Mitchell remains one of the show’s most beloved and complex characters, it is clear that Womack’s talent extends far beyond the soap’s familiar Albert Square. Her transition from television star to stage powerhouse illustrates her versatility and dedication to her craft. More importantly, it highlights the importance of giving actresses over forty leading roles that are layered, powerful, and culturally relevant.
In her own words, Womack says she feels “reinvigorated” by theatre. She describes the experience of performing in Dear England as both terrifying and exhilarating — the kind of challenge that breathes new life into an artist’s soul. The live interaction with audiences, the emotional immediacy of the performance, and the communal experience of storytelling have reignited her passion for acting. “There’s nothing quite like theatre,” she said. “It strips everything down and leaves you with nothing but the truth.”
As the spotlight shines again on Samantha Womack, it’s clear she’s not just returning — she’s rising. Her portrayal of Dr. Pippa Grange stands as a testament to what happens when talent meets purpose, and when a performer dares to go beyond their comfort zone. With Dear England, she’s not only participating in the decade’s most important stage production — she’s helping to define it.
For anyone lucky enough to attend the show, Samantha Womack’s performance promises to be a career-defining moment and an unforgettable theatrical experience. Whether you’re a fan of football, drama, or simply great storytelling, Dear England — and Womack’s role in it — is not to be missed.
