Mimi Keene has emerged as one of the most recognizable faces on British television, building a career that spans across some of the UK’s most beloved dramas.
Known for her memorable roles in EastEnders and Sex Education, Keene is now taking on a new challenge as she stars in the BBC’s adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Towards Zero.
But how did she go from a budding young talent in acting school to becoming a prominent TV star? Let’s explore her journey.
Early Life and Training
Mimi Keene was born in London’s Redbridge borough in 1998, a city that has been central to her career.
From an early age, Keene showed an interest in performance, and it wasn’t long before she found herself enrolled at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.
This esteemed institution, known for shaping future stars, became the breeding ground for Keene’s professional aspirations. She trained there from 2009 until 2014, honing her acting skills alongside a select group of young talents.
During her time at the academy, Keene’s potential was recognized on screen. She appeared in a CBBC documentary, School for Stars, which gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the academy’s students as they prepared for their big breaks. It was clear even then that Keene was destined for more than just the stage—her talent would soon take her into the world of television.
Breaking Through with EastEnders
In 2013, Keene’s big break came when she joined the cast of the iconic BBC soap opera EastEnders. She took on the role of Cindy Williams, the rebellious daughter of Walford staple Cindy Beale (played by Michelle Collins). Cindy Jr. returned to Albert Square after running away from her grandparents’ house in Devon. From the start, she was a wild card, often landing herself in trouble and causing drama in the Beale household.
Keene’s portrayal of Cindy was well-received by fans and critics alike, and her character quickly became a key part of the show’s ongoing storylines. One of her most notable arcs was her involvement in the dramatic “Who Killed Lucy Beale?” storyline, which captivated audiences for months. Despite being one of the main suspects, it was ultimately revealed that her brother, Bobby Beale, was the murderer. After two years on EastEnders, Keene left the show in 2015, with her character relocating to Germany with her boyfriend, Liam Butcher, and their daughter. This exit marked the end of her time on the soap, but it set the stage for her next major project.
Sex Education: A Star is Born
In 2019, Keene took on a completely different role in Netflix’s hit series Sex Education. She portrayed Ruby Matthews, a popular and somewhat harsh student at Moordale Secondary School. Ruby’s tough exterior hid a deeply vulnerable side, especially when it came to caring for her father, who battled multiple sclerosis. Keene’s performance stood out for the emotional depth she brought to the character, showing audiences that Ruby was more than just a high school stereotype.
Throughout the series, Ruby’s character underwent significant growth, especially in her relationship with Otis Milburn (played by Asa Butterfield). Though their romance was short-lived, Ruby’s journey was one of the most compelling in the show. Keene’s portrayal of Ruby earned her widespread acclaim, and she continued to appear throughout all four seasons of Sex Education until 2023, further cementing her place as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Venturing into Towards Zero
Now, Keene is stepping into new territory with the BBC’s Towards Zero, a thrilling adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel. Set in the 1930s, the story revolves around a murder at an aristocratic manor on the south coast of England. Keene plays Kay Elliott-Strange, the new wife of Nevile Strange, a man caught in a love triangle that turns deadly. The drama is filled with intrigue, jealousy, and deceit, and Keene’s character plays a pivotal role in the unraveling of the mystery.
Working on Towards Zero has allowed Keene to work with seasoned actors like Hollywood icon Anjelica Huston, a surreal experience that left a lasting impression on the young actress. Keene spoke about her nerves before working with Huston, but praised the veteran star for making her feel comfortable and allowing her to shine in her role.
Looking Ahead
Mimi Keene’s career is undoubtedly on an upward trajectory. From her early days in acting school to her major roles in EastEnders, Sex Education, and now Towards Zero, she has proven herself to be a versatile and talented actress. As she continues to take on diverse and challenging roles, audiences will no doubt be watching closely to see what she does next. Whether she’s playing a rebellious teen or a mysterious new wife, Keene’s ability to bring depth to any character ensures she will remain a prominent figure in the world of television for years to come.
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