Former EastEnders actress Samantha Womack has made a heartfelt public appeal for support following a devastating family health crisis. The star, who survived her own battle with breast cancer, has revealed that her aunt, Angie, is now fighting advanced cancer.
A Personal Battle and a Family Crisis
Samantha Womack, best known for playing Ronnie Mitchell on the BBC One soap, took to social media platform X on January 8, 2026 to share the sad news. In her post, she expressed her devastation, writing that after surviving her own cancer, she is now facing the illness within her family.
She confirmed her aunt has been diagnosed with advanced colon cancer that has spread to her liver. Samantha, alongside her partner Callum, stated they are doing everything possible but urgently need additional support, directing followers to a fundraising page.
A Son's Heartfelt Plea for His Mother
The GoFundMe campaign was set up by Angie's son and Samantha's cousin, Calum Best, the English-American TV personality. On the page, Calum shared an emotional message detailing his mother's diagnosis, which came just a few weeks ago.
He described his mum as someone who has always lived a life dedicated to health and wellness, making the diagnosis particularly cruel. Calum explained that the family needs to access specialist care and treatments, but the financial burden is too great to manage alone.
'I’ll be honest, I haven’t cried in years but this has been an emotional rollercoaster I never expected to be on,' he wrote, humbly asking for help from the public. All funds raised will go towards the specialists and care his mother requires during this challenging time.
Samantha Womack's Own Cancer Journey
This family tragedy comes just a few years after Samantha's own health scare. The actress first revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in 2022, sharing the news in a tribute to the late Olivia Newton-John.
After undergoing treatment including a lumpectomy and chemotherapy, she confirmed in 2023 that she was cancer-free. Speaking to Metro at the time, she discussed the ongoing mental challenge, saying the most complicated part is balancing vigilance with not letting fear dominate daily life.
Samantha left EastEnders in 2017 when her character, Ronnie Mitchell, tragically drowned alongside her sister Roxy, played by Rita Simons, in a New Year's Day storyline that remains one of the soap's most memorable and debated exits.
The public appeal highlights the far-reaching impact of a cancer diagnosis, not only on the patient but on the entire family network. Both Samantha Womack and Calum Best's messages underscore the emotional and financial strains that accompany seeking the best possible care during such a critical time.
