EastEnders has cast UK comedian and podcaster Amy Matthews in a mystery role that is set to complicate Denise Fox's already tumultuous life. Matthews, known for writing on Have I Got News for You and appearing in Scot Squad, will play Rita, a blonde woman seen in new promotional images with Jack Branning (Scott Maslen).
Denise Fox's cancer battle intensifies
Denise Fox (Diane Parish) is currently facing acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a fast-growing and aggressive blood cancer. After initially ignoring her symptoms, she sought medical help following Sam Mitchell's (Kim Medcalf) brave breast cancer battle. Tests confirmed AML, requiring immediate treatment. Hours after her diagnosis, Denise's grandson Jordan (Jahsaiah Williams) was hit by Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), leaving daughter Chelsea (Zaraah Abrahams) devastated and in need of her mother's support.
Jack pleaded with Denise to start chemotherapy, but she insisted on undergoing treatment on her own terms, creating tension in their relationship. This week, Denise was discharged but received devastating news: her cancer had not responded as hoped, and more treatment was needed.
Support from fellow patient Teyana
During her hospital stay, Denise bonded with fellow patient Teyana (Denise Pitter), exchanging voice notes that provided a welcome distraction. However, when Denise returned to deliver balm to Teyana, she learned Teyana had taken a bad turn and died overnight. The loss left Denise physically and mentally fragile.
Adding to her stress, the arrival of Gray Atkins' (Toby-Alexander Smith) grandmother, Sheila Atkins (Sheila Ruskin), in Walford further infuriated Denise. After confronting Sheila, Denise removed her head wrap in her bedroom, and when Jack unexpectedly saw her hair loss for the first time, she angrily ordered him out.
Jack and Denise's relationship strained
Next week, Denise and Jack remain distant as both struggle with their emotions. Jack is devastated to be placed on compassionate leave, with newcomer DC Craig Ingram (Matthew James Bailey) taking over his cases. Denise remains unable to be vulnerable, and the two are closed off from one another. Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) unexpectedly pushes Jack to keep trying to reach Denise, but when she shares her heartbreak over Teyana's death, Jack is choked with emotion and unable to reciprocate her openness.
Mystery blonde Rita enters the scene
Retiring to the Vic, pictures show Jack in the company of a mystery blonde named Rita, whose hand ends up on his knee. Rita is played by comedian and podcaster Amy Matthews, who revealed her role via Instagram with a carousel of promotional images. According to Matthews, her character is set to cause further complications for Denise and Jack's already fractured relationship. With Denise fighting for her life, Rita may prove to be yet another obstacle on her road to recovery.
