Three-time Olivier Award winner Maria Friedman has joined the cast of EastEnders as Linda Carter's mother, Elaine Peacock.
Elaine's a glamorous Landylady who loves to be the centre of attention at all times, and after successfully running her very own pub for a number of years, it's something she's extremely good at.
Credit: BBCThough her relationship with her daughter Linda has been fraught at times, it's clear due to the women's similarities just why Linda is the way she is.
Extremely close to her son in law Mick, the two have gotten on like a house on fire for years and have a great relationship.
After Mick realises something isn't right with Linda, he gets Elaine to come to Albert Square, not knowing that his wife is dealing with the toughest period of her life.
Could Elaine's arrival help or hinder Mrs Carter?
Maria commented: “I am thrilled to be joining the cast of EastEnders to play Elaine Peacock. Working alongside Kellie Bright and the rest of the Carter clan has been an absolute joy. It has also been a lovely experience to take my West End shoes East for a short trip!”
Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Executive producer added: "Ever since Elaine became the voice on the end of the Queen Vic phone, we have been waiting to see just what kind of woman made Linda Carter. Elaine is tough, warm and capable - but also proud and more than a little vain, bringing with her a whole new dynamic when she arrives in Walford to sort out her daughter. Maria Friedman is a West End legend and we are all very excited to have someone of her pedigree playing Elaine Peacock."
Maria will first appear on screen later this Autumn.
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