Shona McGarty has portrayed EastEnders character Whitney Dean since 2008, captivating audiences with her gripping storylines. Starting as a troubled teen facing abuse, Whitney has matured over the years and is now expecting a baby with boyfriend Zac. However, after 16 years on the show, Shona has announced her departure to pursue new opportunities. She shared her gratitude for the incredible storylines and friendships she has formed on the show, expressing sadness at leaving behind her on-screen family.
Shona’s off-screen romances have made headlines, including relationships with her co-stars Matt Lapinskas and Max Bowden. Her brief love affair with Matt, who played Anthony Moon, ended after 18 months. She also dated Max, known for his role as Ben Mitchell, for six months before parting ways. Despite these personal challenges, Shona remained dedicated to her role as Whitney, whose character faced various obstacles and triumphs. In 2012, she was suspended from the show for consistently being late to set but learned from the experience and worked to improve her punctuality.
Shona’s departure from EastEnders opens up new possibilities for her career, particularly in music. Her singing talent was showcased in performances at notable events like the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance and Jacqueline Jossa’s birthday party. Shona’s fellow cast members have supported her endeavors outside of acting, celebrating her musical abilities and cheering her on in her next ventures. Currently, Shona is reportedly in a relationship with David Bracken, a member of the Irish band Blessed, who publicly expressed his affection for her on social media.
As Shona moves on from her iconic role as Whitney Dean, fans will remember her impactful performances and the emotional depth she brought to the character. Despite facing challenges both on and off the screen, Shona’s dedication to her craft and her growth as an actress have left a lasting impression on viewers. Her departure marks the end of an era for EastEnders, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter in Shona’s career. With her talent and determination, she is poised to succeed in whatever path she chooses to pursue next.
