Written by: Penelope Wildwood

Letitia Dean: The Beloved Soap Opera Star

Letitia Dean is a household name in the UK, thanks to her portrayal of the iconic character Sharon Watts in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. With a career spanning over three decades, Dean has become synonymous with the role, earning her a permanent place in the hearts of the British television audience.

Early Life and Training

Born on November 14, 1967, in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, Dean grew up in a creative environment that fostered her love for performing. Her parents, Leslie and Ellie Dean, encouraged her to pursue her passion, and she began training at the Sylvia Mitchell School of Dance at a young age. Dean's talent and dedication earned her a place at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts at just 10 years old, followed by the Sylvia Young Theatre School in Marylebone, London.

Rise to Fame

Dean's professional career began at the age of 12, when she landed a role in the musical Annie at London's Victoria Palace Theatre. Her early success was followed by leading roles in Grease and touring with the rock group The Young Uns. However, it was her role as Sharon Watts in EastEnders that catapulted her to stardom in 1985. Dean's portrayal of the feisty and lovable Sharon earned her a massive following, and she became an integral part of the show's original cast.

Other Notable Roles

In addition to her iconic role in EastEnders, Dean has appeared in several other notable television shows, including Grange Hill, Brookside, The Hello Girls, and Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married. Her stage credits include starring in the West End production of High School Musical in 2008 and touring with the UK production of Calendar Girls in 2010.

Awards and Accolades

Dean's contribution to the world of soap operas was recognized in 2022, when she was awarded the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement. Her participation in the fifth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2007 also showcased her dancing skills, earning her a respectable fourth place finish.

Personal Life

Dean's personal life is private, but it is known that she grew up in a close-knit family with two older brothers. Her family moved to the village of Stoke Goldington in north Buckinghamshire when she was just three years old. Dean's love for performing was nurtured by her family, and she credits her parents for their unwavering support throughout her career.

Legacy

Letitia Dean's impact on the world of soap operas is undeniable. Her portrayal of Sharon Watts has become an integral part of British television history, and her dedication to the role has earned her a special place in the hearts of her fans. As a talented actress, singer, and dancer, Dean continues to inspire new generations of performers, solidifying her legacy as a true soap opera legend.