Jaime Winstone is back as a young Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders, and she says the experience was “overwhelming” thanks to the character’s massive legacy.
Jaime Winstone: “Such an Honour” to Play Peggy Again
Winstone described stepping into the shoes of Peggy as a huge moment:
“Peggy Mitchell is so iconic: Everybody refers to her still, everybody knows her, and it’s such an honour. When I knew I was going to be reprising the role, at first, you go, ‘Wow, this is really exciting.’ Then you read the context of the script and get into it. We all grew up with Peggy in our front rooms, so it’s an overwhelming feeling because she’s such a strong, amazing character.”
The legend Dame Barbara Windsor played Peggy for over two decades from 1994 until her passing in 2020. Her portrayal remains one of EastEnders’ most beloved icons.
Plot Twist: Mental Health Flashback Takes Viewers to 1985
The upcoming episode focuses on Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) battling deepening depression with symptoms of psychosis. During a hallucinatory trip, Phil is transported back to 1985 where he meets his younger mother, Peggy.
Winstone, who first played young Peggy in a 2022 flashback, revealed:
“She’s a real representation of a woman who had been through domestic violence and had to protect her children.”
The flashback will also feature Phil as a teenager (Daniel Delaney), witnessing key moments that shaped his troubled past.
Transforming into Peggy: The Wig Works Its Magic
To get into character, Winstone rewatched Peggy’s iconic scenes but says it’s the famous blonde wig that truly seals the deal.
“As soon as I put that wig on in the make-up chair, I always feel such warmth and confidence because I feel like Barbara’s giving me the go-ahead. The moment the wig goes on, everybody is quiet in the make-up room. Then I look in the mirror, giggle, and she’s just there making her presence known.”
Spotlight on Men’s Mental Health & Big Returns
The storyline is praised for its sensitive portrayal of men’s mental health. Winstone said:
“There is such a stigma around men’s mental health, particularly. I think the way the writers haven’t rushed this storyline has been incredibly important. EastEnders has been so clever doing this story with such a beloved character and an amazing actor.”
She lauded Steve McFadden’s performance as “amazing” and confirmed the show worked closely with charities like Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, CALM, and Mind to get it right.
Fans also have something to cheer about with Ross Kemp set to reprise his role as Grant Mitchell later this year — his first appearance in nearly ten years — as part of the soap’s 40th anniversary.
The emotional flashback episode, honouring Dame Barbara Windsor’s legacy, airs soon on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Stay tuned for a gripping dive into Phil Mitchell’s mental health battle and Peggy’s unforgettable story.
