Kathy Beale, portrayed by Gillian Taylforth, is a central figure in EastEnders, having appeared since the show's inception in 1985.
Throughout her tenure, Kathy has navigated complex storylines, including her departure in 1998 to South Africa with her son, Ben Mitchell. In 2006, she was presumed dead following a car accident, a plot point that initially disappointed Taylforth. However, in 2015, the character was resurrected, revealing she had faked her death — a storyline inspired by the real-life John Darwin case.
As of 2025, Kathy continues to be a pivotal character, engaging in various dramatic arcs that resonate with audiences.
