From talent show hopeful to soap opera sensation, Molly Rainford’s rise in the entertainment world reads like a script straight out of a coming-of-age drama—full of highs, heart, and a little EastEnders-sized twist.
Before her stylish arrival on EastEnders as Anna Knight in 2023, the 24-year-old starlet had already weathered a whirlwind career in music, television, and reality dance shows. But behind her glowing smile and rising fame lies a determined artist who began chasing her dreams at just 11 years old.
Molly first captured the public’s attention back in 2012, when she stood on the Britain’s Got Talent stage with nothing but a powerful voice and big dreams. Her audition, a stunning rendition of “One Night Only” from Dreamgirls, left judges and viewers in awe. Reaching the show’s final with Beyoncé’s take on “Ave Maria,” she didn’t win the competition—but what she gained would shape her career forever.
Behind the scenes, music mogul Simon Cowell was watching closely. Impressed by her natural talent and ambition, Cowell didn’t offer a record deal—he gave her something even more valuable: a future. With support from Sony Music, he helped her land a place at the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School, giving Molly the training and education to grow into a multifaceted performer.
“I never wanted to be a one-hit wonder,” Molly once shared. “I wanted longevity, to be doing this for life.” Instead of chasing instant fame, she quietly built a foundation that would later support a career spanning music, acting, and presenting.
By 14, Molly had stepped into the world of children’s TV as a CBBC presenter—her bright energy and charisma perfect for younger audiences. But it was her leading role as a pop star in the CBBC sci-fi series Nova Jones in 2021 that truly signaled her shift into the world of acting. The show gave her a unique platform to blend her two passions—singing and acting—into one character-driven role that brought her closer to her ultimate goal: becoming a household name.
That breakthrough paved the way for her entrance into the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom in 2022. Partnered with professional dancer Carlos Gu, Molly dazzled viewers each week with her moves, making it all the way to the final. While the coveted Glitterball trophy slipped through her fingers, the show gave her something even more life-changing: love.
It was on Strictly that Molly met fellow contestant Tyler West, a DJ and TV presenter. Their chemistry blossomed off-screen, and the pair have since become one of the most beloved couples to come out of the show. Regularly posting updates and sweet snaps on Instagram, Molly and Tyler’s relationship is the perfect rom-com subplot in her real-life story.
Then came Walford.
In 2023, Molly joined the cast of EastEnders as Anna Knight, daughter of George Knight (played by James Bond actor Colin Salmon) and the long-lost child of none other than soap legend Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). Her debut instantly made waves. Not only was she stepping into a complex family dynamic—tied to some of the soap’s most iconic characters—but she was bringing a fresh presence to the Square.
