EastEnders star Heather Peace has moved fans to tears after revealing her cancer diagnosis, just days after she made a poignant comment about “holding on to every minute.” The actress, 49, who plays Eve Panesar-Unwin in the beloved BBC soap, took to social media to share the deeply personal news in an emotional video that has since drawn an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow cast members alike.
In her heartfelt message, Heather spoke candidly about the shock of her diagnosis, the strength she’s drawing from her loved ones, and her determination to face the journey ahead with courage and grace. What struck many fans most was the timing of her recent public reflection, in which she talked about cherishing each moment — words that now carry even more weight and heartbreaking clarity.
Heather’s portrayal of Eve has earned her a loyal following, not just for her on-screen talent, but for her warmth and authenticity off-screen as well. As messages of solidarity pour in from across the UK soap community, viewers are reminded once again of the human stories behind the roles they love. Heather’s strength, vulnerability, and honesty in this difficult moment have inspired many, and supporters are standing firmly by her side as she begins treatment.
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Heather Peace shared a touching tribute to her daughter just days before she revealed she had breast cancerCredit: instagram/@heatherpeaceofficial
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Heather shared that she had cancer yesterday, in a touching videoCredit: Instagram
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Fans know the actress for role as Eve Unwin on EastEndersCredit: BBC
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Heather revealed she has been fighting breast cancer since last OctoberCredit: Rex
Heather shocked fans when she revealed she has been having chemotherapy treatment and surgery to fight breast cancer.
Just days before she shared her heartbreaking news with her fans, the soap star posted a sweet message to her daughter on her birthday.
In the post she heartbreakingly talked about “holding on to every minute”.
The actress took to Instagram to celebrate her eldest daughter Annie’s tenth birthday.
She shares her little girl – along with twins born in 2017 – with her wife Ellie Dickinson.
To commemorate Annie’s milestone birthday, Heather posted a slew of sweet snaps of her daughter through the years.
She wrote next to them: “The happiest of birthdays spent with our now 10 year old, Annie.
“Fun in the sunshine at home in Brighton with pals.
“Time goes so quickly. I’m trying to hold onto every minute. We’re so proud of the person she has become.
“She’s the kindest, funniest, brightest spark & we are blessed to have her in our lives.”
EastEnders’ Eve Unwin star Heather Peace releases a single – and it could be the song of the summer
CANCER BATTLE
Yesterday, Heather opened up about her cancer diagnosis had changed her life “forever”.
She captioned her post: “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.”
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The actress shared a video of herself having a wig fitting after she lost her hair through chemoCredit: Instagram
Heather told her followers she has been “forever changed” by the disease and paid tribute to her wife Ellie and their three daughters, Annie, Jessie and Lola, for getting her through it.
She said she was “just trying to appreciate every moment of them”.
Heather added: “There have been so many positives.
“Thank you to the whole EE team for going above & beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team.
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The soap star joined EastEnders in 2021Credit: BBC
“And to Alex Rouss for the original wig & Linda for the spot on cut.
“I’ve felt totally supported by you all. 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.”
Heather ended her post admitting “life feels very different now” but said “it’s wonderful”.
She said: “I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky. With love, Heather xxx”
The Bradford born star, who also played Nikki Boston in Waterloo Road, joined EastEnders as Eve in October 2021.
Stacey Slater’s former cellmate and wife has been a regular in the soap ever since, most recently marrying second wife Suki Panesar.
What are the signs of breast cancer?
BREAST cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK.
The majority of women who get it are over 50, but younger women and, in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
If it’s treated early enough, breast cancer can be prevented from spreading to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor. You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
dimpling on the skin of your breasts
a rash on or around your nipple
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Source: NHS
