Molly Rainford is one of the big stars to have recently joined the EastEnders family.
Ever since Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) vanished at sea during Christmas 2022, fans wondered what was going to happen to the beloved Queen Vic and who would join the league of famous landladies and men who have graced the bar.
Cue in the Knights, as their arrival in 2023 made a serious impact.
Now we know Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) teamed up with her mum Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe) to take over the Vic, and Elaine brought along her lover and his two daughters for the ride.
Actress Molly plays one of the daughters – but who is she and what’s happening with her character now?
Here’s what you need to know.
Who is Molly Rainford?
Molly, 23, first rose to fame in 2012 as a finalist on the sixth series of Britain’s Got Talent when she was just 11 years old.
Following her stint on the talent show, she became the presenter of Friday Download between 2014 and 2015.
In 2021, she starred in CBBC comedy-drama series Nova Jones as the show’s titular character.
She took part in the latest series of Strictly last year, and – despite being in the bottom two four times – made it to the final with partner Carlos Gu.
Aside from her life on screen, Molly has also released two E.Ps – Commitment in 2019, and Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) the following year – as well as a non-album single Sign Your Name.
Molly is the daughter of Dave Rainford, a former footballer who now works for the Premier League.
Who does Molly Rainford play in EastEnders?
Molly plays Anna Knight, the daughter of George Knight (Colin Salmon) and sister of Gina Knight (Francesca Henry).
Her character was described as ‘fun, loveable, and big-hearted, but don’t underestimate her’.
On joining EastEnders in 2023, Molly said: ‘I’m super excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders. It’s such an iconic show which myself and my family love, so it’s an honour to bring the character Anna Knight to life who is set to stir up drama upon her arrival.
‘I’ve already met a few familiar faces from my time on Strictly and I can’t wait to meet and be a part of the EastEnders family.’
Who is Molly’s boyfriend?
After meeting during their stint on Strictly, Molly and co-star Tyler West confirmed their relationship earlier this year.
There were reports that the pair had been flirting backstage while filming the 20th series despite Molly being ‘banned’ from dating, but it was believed they had been getting closer since they hit the road for the Strictly live tour.
Radio DJ Tyler, 26, posted an adorable TikTok confirming the pair were dating in March which saw the couple getting cozy.
Ahead of her EastEnders stint, Tyler praised Molly and branded himself the actor’s ‘biggest fan.’
Appearing on Lorraine in May 2023, Tyler told host Ranvir Singh that it was a ‘big day’ for the couple.
He replied: ‘Honestly I am so proud and she is also very excited for it,’ when asked about the role.
When asked about what it will be like to see her on-screen again, Tyler gushed about his girlfriend.
‘I am well excited… I am like her biggest fan. She makes my heart smile with it all.
‘I am so proud of her and she deserves it and I feel like it’s a real big moment.’
