EastEnders actress Ellie Dadd has confirmed she will be returning to Albert Square after taking a short break from the soap to star in a festive pantomime. The 20-year-old, best known for her role as Amy Mitchell, will be stepping into the spotlight this Christmas as Belle in Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls in Croydon.

Theatre is nothing new for Ellie, who began performing in pantomimes at just six years old. Before becoming a familiar face in EastEnders, she built an impressive stage career, including a run in the West End production of Matilda the Musical, where she played Amanda Thripp. Her early stage experience laid the foundation for her strong on-screen presence and emotional depth as an actress.

Taking on the lead role in a Christmas panto is something of a homecoming for Ellie, who has spoken about her love of live theatre and the energy it brings. The production is set to run through the Christmas season, and Ellie’s role as Belle is expected to be a highlight of the show.

Despite her temporary absence from EastEnders, fans of the long-running soap can rest assured that Ellie will be back. She has made it clear that her time away from Walford is only a short break and that she will resume filming once the pantomime season wraps.

Since taking over the role of Amy Mitchell in 2022, Ellie has become a key part of the show, tackling some of the most hard-hitting teen storylines in recent years. Her portrayal of Amy, particularly in storylines involving self-harm and mental health, received praise from viewers and critics alike, and even earned her a nomination for Best Young Performer at the RadioTimes.com Soap Awards in 2024.

Outside of her role in EastEnders, Ellie has made a name for herself through other screen appearances, including a guest spot on Silent Witness in 2020 and her debut in the 2013 short film Lipstick.

She trained at the prestigious D&B Academy of Performing Arts in Bromley, which also produced EastEnders alumni Tilly Keeper and Zack Morris. In fact, Ellie was stunned to discover that her former classmates were also part of the soap when she joined the cast. A full circle to be working alongside people she trained with as a child.

Ellie has also built strong friendships with her younger EastEnders co-stars, including Bobby Brazier, who plays Freddie Slater. Their off-screen bond adds to the authentic chemistry that viewers see on screen, and it’s clear that Ellie has become an integral part of the soap’s younger generation