Only recently, EastEnders star Harriet Thorpe appeared on Loose Women, where she spoke about her famous sister who is also an actress and previously appeared on the BBC One soap
EastEnders star Harriet Thorpe has been a staple on the BBC One soap since 2023.
The actress, 67, who is best known for her role of Fleur in Absolutely Fabulous, plays fiery Elaine Peacock in Albert Square, who is the protective on-screen mother of Linda Carter, played by Kellie Bright.
Appearing on Loose Women recently, Harriet discussed all things EastEnders, where she also revealed that she has a famous sister who is also an actress.
Talking about her childhood, where her family relocated to Los Angeles, Harriet said: “My sister and I, who is also an actress, Matilda Thorpe, we were little children at a normal state primary school. Do you remember the food? It was all sort of grey? Memories!
“Suddenly I was in Beverly Hills and we went to school and they had an ice cream machine. They had pizza and chocolate milk!”
Harriet’s sister, Matilda Thorpe, has certainly followed in her sibling’s footsteps and also has an impressive acting career.
Matilda is best known for her role as Mandy Mosgrove in Desmond’s from 1989 to 1994. More recent roles include Claire Glass in Sick Note, Nina in One Life and Auntie Melody in Back to Black.
However, in a coincidence, Matilda’s early career saw her land a role in EastEnders years before her sister Harriet’s debut. Matilda played the part of Rachel Ford on the BBC One soap back in 1998.
Harriet joined EastEnders last year as Elaine with the role originally played by Maria Friedman from 2014 to 2017.
The actress said last year of joining the BBC One soap: “It’s a dream come true! My family originally came from the East End, two generations back, so it’s like coming home. Everyone has been so warm and wonderful, it’s been so fun and creative so far. With all the drama and the laughs of the show too, I really couldn’t ask for anything more.”
She added: “I felt so honoured. It’s a wonderful story of another strong woman who takes no nonsense, is fearless and forthright but who has a big heart. Again, it’s a very fulfilling role.”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
