Samantha Womack Lands Major New Role Following EastEnders Departure
After captivating viewers for years as the iconic Ronnie Mitchell in EastEnders, actress Samantha Womack is stepping into a bold new chapter in her career. Since her dramatic exit from the BBC soap, fans have wondered what’s next for the beloved actress—and now, they finally have their answer.
In a surprise announcement, Womack has confirmed that she will take on a leading role in a brand-new British thriller series, a sharp departure from her soap opera roots. The series, titled The Harbour, is set to premiere on a major streaming platform in early 2026, and industry insiders are already predicting awards buzz for her performance.
From Albert Square to the Crime Scene
Womack rose to fame through her portrayal of Ronnie Mitchell, a troubled but deeply loved character in EastEnders. Her on-screen chemistry with co-stars and her emotional range turned her into one of the soap’s most memorable figures. Viewers were devastated when Ronnie was killed off in a tragic storyline in 2017, drowning on her wedding day alongside sister Roxy (played by Rita Simons).
Since then, Womack has taken a step back from TV, focusing on theatre roles and personal health, including her well-publicized battle with breast cancer. She has since made a full recovery and has expressed her gratitude for the support she received from fans and colleagues alike.
Now, with her return to screen in The Harbour, Womack is diving into a genre that promises suspense, emotional depth, and complex character development—something she’s no stranger to.
What We Know About ‘The Harbour’
Described as a “dark and compelling psychological thriller,” The Harbour is set in a small coastal town plagued by secrets, lies, and a string of unexplained disappearances. Samantha Womack plays DS Rebecca Hale, a seasoned detective who returns to her hometown after 20 years to solve a chilling mystery that threatens to consume the community—and her own past.
The series is created by BAFTA-winning writer Ellie Sharp and features a stellar supporting cast including David Morrissey, Lashana Lynch, and Mark Gatiss. Filming began in June 2025 and has already wrapped its first season, with post-production now underway.
Speaking to Radio Times, Womack shared her excitement:
“This role came to me at the perfect time. Rebecca Hale is complex, damaged, and incredibly real. Getting to play someone with such layers—and in such a beautifully written series—is exactly the challenge I’ve been looking for.”
Fan Reactions and Industry Buzz
Fans were quick to express their excitement across social media platforms. Many long-time EastEnders viewers have followed Womack’s career beyond Albert Square and are eager to see her take on a darker, more nuanced role.
“Samantha is such a talented actress. If The Harbour gives her half the material EastEnders did, she’s going to absolutely smash it!” one fan tweeted.
Industry insiders are equally enthusiastic. Early screenings for select critics have already taken place, and several outlets are calling Womack’s performance “haunting,” “intense,” and “one of her finest yet.” There’s already talk of the series becoming a flagship drama for the streaming service.
A Career Evolution Worth Watching
Samantha Womack’s transition from soap icon to leading lady in high-end drama mirrors the career trajectories of other EastEnders alumni who’ve moved on to bigger stages. From Ben Hardy to Jessie Wallace, British soap veterans have increasingly proven their versatility in genres far beyond the cobbled streets of Walford.
Womack, however, brings with her not just experience, but a raw emotional honesty that has defined her best performances. Whether she’s portraying heartbreak, resolve, or unrelenting justice, her ability to embody complex characters makes her the ideal lead for a show like The Harbour.
And with the entertainment industry increasingly embracing strong female leads in crime thrillers—think Happy Valley or Broadchurch—Womack’s casting feels like a natural fit.
