Molly Rainford may be shining as Anna Knight in EastEnders today, but her journey to fame started long before she stepped behind the bar at the Queen Vic. A multi-talented performer, Molly has spent over a decade making a name for herself across the British entertainment landscape. Born and raised in Essex, she caught the nation’s attention in 2012 as an 11-year-old finalist on Britain’s Got Talent, performing a stunning rendition of Ave Maria that landed her in sixth place — and made her the show’s youngest-ever finalist at the time.
Following her breakout moment, music mogul Simon Cowell and Sony Music granted her a scholarship to the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School, a gesture that affirmed her potential. Molly fully embraced the opportunity, honing her skills in both acting and music. After school, she landed the title role in CBBC’s Nova Jones, a sci-fi musical comedy series where she portrayed a cosmic pop star navigating fame and adventure in outer space. It was a role that not only showed off her acting chops but also her vocal talent, setting her apart from her peers.
Outside of scripted TV, Molly took on another high-profile challenge when she joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2022. Paired with professional dancer Carlos Gu, she wowed both judges and audiences alike, eventually finishing as the runner-up — further cementing her place in the hearts of UK viewers. That same year, she began her role as Anna Knight in EastEnders, portraying the spirited daughter of Cindy Beale. Her performances in the soap, often alongside seasoned actors like Colin Salmon and Michelle Collins, have helped build a new chapter in her career.
Off-screen, Molly found romance with fellow Strictly star Tyler West. The couple’s relationship blossomed during and after the show, and they’ve since become one of the most followed young celebrity pairs in the UK’s entertainment scene.
Interestingly, Molly’s talents seem to run in the family. Her father, Dave Rainford, is a well-known figure in the football world. A former midfielder for Chelmsford City FC, he later served as the team’s assistant manager and currently holds a senior position with the Premier League. With such a pedigree, it’s no surprise that Molly grew up surrounded by ambition and discipline.
However, her ascent to fame hasn’t been without controversy. Some online critics have speculated that her success in EastEnders might be due to nepotism, given her father’s high-profile connections. Reddit threads have featured debates on whether Molly’s career is built solely on talent or family influence. While some comments suggest her father’s position gave her an edge, others have rushed to defend her, insisting her skills and early exposure are what paved her way.
Regardless of the online chatter, Molly’s body of work speaks volumes. She’s a rare blend of actor, singer, and dancer — a triple threat who has transitioned seamlessly from childhood fame into a full-fledged adult career. And now, with her place firmly established in Walford as Anna Knight, it looks like Molly Rainford is just getting started.
Her storyline in EastEnders continues to grow more complex, especially as her character becomes more entwined in the drama of the Beale and Knight families. As Anna, she brings both charm and vulnerability, drawing viewers into her personal journey — whether it’s navigating family tension, uncovering long-hidden secrets, or simply finding her place in Albert Square.
So, while some may question how she got here, Molly Rainford is proving week after week that she belongs — not just because of who she knows, but because of what she brings to every performance. Whether you first saw her on Britain’s Got Talent, Nova Jones, or Strictly, one thing’s certain: Molly’s star is on the rise, and her reign in EastEnders is far from over.
