The Hawkins family arrives in Albert Square this week, bringing chaos and connecting to series regular Nicola Mitchell, played by Laura Doddington. Sisters Gemma and Jodie appear on Monday, August 17, with mother Rose following, much to Nicola's dismay given her strained relationship with her estranged mother.
The new arrivals have already sparked viewer interest, with many recognizing the actors from previous television roles. Here is a breakdown of who plays each character and where audiences have seen them before.
Who plays Gemma Hawkins?
Gemma Hawkins is portrayed by Patricia Potter, best known for her role as Diane Lloyd in the BBC One medical drama Holby City, a part she played from 2002 to 2007, with a return appearance in 2019. Potter also appeared in Doctors as Jane Fairweather between 2016 and 2017.
Her extensive television credits include Brookside, where she played Victoria Seagram Wilcox, as well as The Bill, Hollyoaks, Extras, and New Tricks. Speaking about her casting, Potter said: 'I am so delighted to be joining this iconic show as part of a new family. What a joy and a privilege to be working with such talented actors and wonderful people. I couldn't be more excited and grateful!'
Who plays Rose Hawkins?
Rose Hawkins is played by Marian McLoughlin, who soap fans may recognize from her 2021 role as Sue, Luke Morgan's mother, in Hollyoaks. She is perhaps best known for playing Marina Bonnaire in Doctors, a role she held from 2011 to 2012.
McLoughlin has also appeared in EastEnders previously, playing DCI Chapman for seven episodes between 1991 and 1993. Her other television work includes The Bill, Casualty, Holby City, Holby Blue, Foyle's War, and Midsomer Murders.
Who plays Jodie Hawkins?
Jodie Hawkins is played by Anna Constable, whose previous work includes stage productions of Imposter 22 and A Small Enclosed Room, plus the short film New Bloom. Constable expressed her excitement about the role, stating: 'Growing up watching EastEnders I never thought a disabled actress like me could ever land a role like this. But here I am loud and proud and taking no prisoners in mine or Jodie's wake.'
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One, with episodes available to stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. The introduction of the Hawkins family is set to bring significant drama to Walford, with Nicola's complicated family history at the forefront.
