EastEnders has welcomed several new faces over recent years, one of which is actress Aaliyah James, who plays Avani Nandra-Hart in the BBC One soap.

Avani was introduced to soap fans back in 2023, and it’s safe to say she’s become an integral part of the EastEnders cast over the past two years.

She’s found herself at the centre of plenty of drama since arriving in Walford, and most recently it was revealed that she’d fallen pregnant after getting intimate with newcomer Joel Marshall (Max Murray).

Away from Albert Square, actress Aaliyah James’ life is worlds away from her character’s. Let’s take a look…

Aaliyah, full name Aaliyah Laiqah James, was born in Greenwich, London. She studied drama from a young age, completing a GCSE in the subject and being involved in productions with Old Vic New Voices and the Age Exchange Company.

In 2022, the actress made her TV debut in BBC One crime drama Inside Man. Aaliyah played a train passenger in the series’ first episode.

Away from her TV work, Aaliyah keeps fans updated over on her Instagram account. She frequently shares snaps from lavish getaways to locations such as Ibiza, as well as celebrity events, including the National Television Awards.

Career

Following her TV debut in 2022, it was announced that Aaliyah had been cast as Avani Nandra-Hart in BBC One soap EastEnders. She made her soap debut in October 2023.

Avani was introduced to BBC viewers alongside her mum Priya Nandra-Hart, played by Sophie Khan Levy. It was revealed that Priya is Ravi Gulati’s (Aaron Thiara) ex-girlfriend and Avani is his daughter, although he was unaware of her existence.

Avani is the younger sister of Davinder ‘Nugget’ Gulati (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) and step-granddaughter of Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal).

During her time in EastEnders, Avani has been at the centre of some big storylines, including an underage relationship and more recently, her teenage pregnancy.

“To be given this opportunity as my official debut to screen is a true blessing,” Aaliyah said after news of her soap role was shared in 2023.

“I have found home in the supportiveness of the cast and crew, and I’m very thankful to feel a part of the EastEnders family already. ‘I can’t wait to bring Avani to life and to walk her path in Walford, and I’m excited to see what the universe has planned for my own future.”

Real age

Aaliyah is 25 years old in real life, having been born in 2000.

Her real age has sparked reaction among EastEnders fans since she made her debut, as her character Avani is only 17 years old in the soap.

Aaliyah has previously poked fun at the age gap between her and Avani. Taking to social media last year on her 24th birthday, the actress quipped: “Guys… I’m now 15.. i mean 24 years old.”