Letitia Dean, best known for her iconic portrayal of Sharon Watts in EastEnders,

has opened up about the emotional toll of playing such a complex character and the excitement that comes with being at the center of major storylines.
The beloved actress has been a staple of Albert Square since 1985, captivating audiences with Sharon’s dramatic and often heartbreaking journey.
Over the years, Letitia has tackled some of the soap’s most intense storylines,

and she admits she has become “used to crying” due to the emotional weight of her character’s experiences.

A Career Filled with Emotion

With Sharon Watts being one of EastEnders’ longest-running characters, Letitia Dean has portrayed a wide range of emotions, from love and betrayal to grief and resilience. Reflecting on her time in the soap, she acknowledges how often she finds herself in tearful scenes. “I’ve spent so much time crying on this show, I think I could do it in my sleep,” she joked. “But honestly, it’s a testament to the brilliant writing that Sharon is always going through something big.”
Her character has endured countless heartbreaks, including the tragic loss of her son, tumultuous relationships, and shocking betrayals. The actress admits that, while draining at times, she finds these emotionally charged scenes fulfilling as an actor. “I love a challenge, and EastEnders always delivers,” she said. “It’s part of why I still enjoy playing Sharon after all these years.”
The Excitement of a Big Storyline
Letitia also expressed her enthusiasm for receiving a major storyline, noting that after decades in the soap industry, she still feels a thrill when given a new arc to explore. “Even after all this time, I still get excited when I get a script and see that Sharon is right in the thick of the drama,” she shared. “That’s the beauty of soaps – the characters evolve, and you never quite know what’s coming next.”

One of her most memorable recent storylines involved Sharon’s dramatic romance with Phil Mitchell and the shocking revelation of her affair with Keanu Taylor. The explosive fallout left viewers on the edge of their seats, and Letitia admitted that she relishes the moments when Sharon takes center stage. “Those big, juicy storylines are what make this job so incredible,” she explained. “Sharon isn’t a character who fades into the background – she’s always got something going on!”
A Soap Legend
Having been part of EastEnders for nearly four decades, Letitia Dean is considered a soap legend, and she acknowledges how special it is to have played Sharon for so long. “Not many actors get to say they’ve played the same character for this long,” she reflected. “It’s a real privilege, and I never take it for granted.”

Despite the emotional challenges that come with the role, she insists she wouldn’t have it any other way. “It can be exhausting, but that’s what makes it real. And the fans are just incredible – their passion and love for the show make it all worth it.”
As EastEnders continues to deliver gripping storylines, there’s no doubt that Sharon Watts will remain at the heart of the action. And for Letitia Dean, the tears, the drama, and the excitement are all just part of the ride.
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