Beloved EastEnders icon passes away, prompting cast to film poignant funeral scenes after star’s demise
Next year, a tragic demise is set to shake the Mitchell family in EastEnders. Cast and crew have been seen filming scenes for the funeral of the formidable Aunt Sal, marking a somber event for the show.
Anna Karen, who beautifully portrayed the beloved character, was the sharp-witted sister of Peggy, played by Barbara Windsor.
Debuting in 1996, Anna graced over 50 episodes of the BBC One soap opera, concluding her portrayal of Sal in 2017.
Sal was a familiar face at Mitchell family gatherings, offering her sharp and witty commentary on the attendees and their actions, be it weddings or funerals.
Her final appearance coincided with the controversial demise of Ronnie Mitchell, portrayed by Samantha Womack.
Tragically, Anna Karen, who embodied the character from start to finish, passed away last year in a house fire.
We received the distressing news of Anna Karen’s passing,” shared an EastEnders spokesperson. “Anna’s portrayal of Aunt Sal was vibrant, sharp-witted, and greatly beloved by our audience. Her presence brought warmth, kindness, and a delightful sense of humour to those she worked with at EastEnders. She will forever be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Anna’s loved ones and friends.
EastEnders will honour Anna and her unforgettable character in forthcoming episodes, as several cast members were seen filming scenes for Sal’s funeral on location.
Steve McFadden, Kim Medcalf, and Max Bowden, portraying Phil, Sam, and Ben Mitchell respectively, were among those captured during filming.”
Jamie Borthwick, known for his role as Jay Brown, and Shane Richie, who plays Alfie Moon, were seen filming, alongside Frankie Day, who takes on the role of Ricky Branning.
Their appearance at the service suggests that both Phil and Ben manage to make it through the Christmas turmoil, despite the looming threat of a male character meeting their end.
Renowned for his roles in “Snatch” and “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” Alan Ford, who graced the screens of EastEnders back in 1986, has been enlisted to portray poignant scenes set to air next year.
Viewers can catch EastEnders every Monday to Thursday at 7:30 pm on BBC One, while episodes become available on BBC iPlayer at 6 am.
