BBC EastEnders Heather Peace in breast cancer admission as she undergoes surgery (2025)

EastEnders star Heather Peace, who plays Eve Panesar-Unwin on the soap, has taken to social media to announce she has been battling breast cancer last year

EastEnders actress Heather Peace has announced she's been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 49-year-old shared the news with fans on social media that she's had chemotherapy and surgery since she received the news.

Heather, famed for her role as Eve Panesar-Unwin on the BBC soap, candidly opened up about the health battle on Instagram on Monday, May 12. In one clip, she was seen trying on a wig in a dressing room as she bravely admitted to losing hair at one point.

Alongside the video clip, she wrote about the diagnosis and shared that she finished chemotherapy earlier today. She said that her life has been "forever changed" by her experience and expressed how grateful she is for all the support, the Mirror reports.

Heather wrote: "This video is an important part of my recent journey, which I wanted to share with you. It's been about the #TeamEffort here @bbceastenders. I needed a wig fitting. I’ve been on quite a road for many months now.

"I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October. Since then I’ve undergone surgery and recovery over the Christmas period and today my chemotherapy journey ended.

"I woke up this morning and it was like the end of the London Marathon; I’d turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock & the finish line. To conclude - I've just picked up my medal."

She added: "But I'm forever changed. During this time I’ve narrowed my world. I’ve had the most precious time with my wife Ellie and our 3 girls; Annie, Jessie & Lola. Just trying to appreciate every moment of them. I’ve stayed still.

"I’ve found joy in the simplest of things. Interactions with others have felt honest and real because I’ve had no capacity for small talk. It has felt like such a personal shift. There have been so many positives."

Heather said: "Thank you to the whole EE team for going above & beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team. And to Alex Rouss for the original wig & Linda for the spot on cut. I've felt totally supported by you all."

Further sharing her gratitude, she said: "Thank you to all of the friends in my local community who've been there for me and my family at the drop of a hat (you know who you are). Thank you to the NHS. You are wonderful, skilled people. You treated me efficiently. You gave me dignity and showed me kindness. It’s so appreciated."

She concluded: "Life feels very different now and it’s wonderful. I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky. With love, Heather."

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