EastEnders icon Jessie Wallace swapped Walford for 1800s London in a bold biopic film that fans have called a “masterclass”
EastEnders legend Jessie Wallace has been captivating soap enthusiasts as Kat Moon since 2000, when she arrived on Albert Square alongside the Slater clan.
Following Kat’s introduction on the BBC soap, she was unveiled as the true mother of her sister Zoe (Michelle Ryan), wed local crime boss Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), and weathered a stormy romance with her soulmate, Alfie (Shane Richie).
She also learned her own child, Luke Slater, had survived birth and revealed she had suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her uncle Harry (Michael Elphick) in a devastating plot.
It’s difficult to picture Jessie playing anyone other than the Queen Vic’s cherished proprietor, Kat. Yet, beyond the BBC drama, she appeared in a period film that admirers have praised as a “masterpiece”.
Miss Marie Lloyd initially broadcast on BBC Four in May, 2007, and is a biographical picture examining the existence of the renowned Edwardian music hall performer, reports OK!.
The early Victorian period witnessed the emergence of music halls across East London, providing stage entertainment incorporating music, dancing, and comedy. Marie Lloyd embodied the venues’ humour and vitality, quickly establishing herself as an icon.
However, beyond the spotlight, Marie Lloyd’s theatrical persona seemed tame compared to her own scandalous reality.
The production, penned by Martyn Hesford, showcases some of her most celebrated numbers, including My Old Man Said Follow The Van and her signature tune A Little Of What You Fancy Does You Good, creating a touching depiction of public triumph and private heartbreak.
Marie shocked polite society with her defiant nature and, through a series of romantic entanglements, which were sensationally reported in the popular press.
In the film, Jessie appears utterly transformed from her EastEnders character, leopard-print-wearing Kat, sporting 1800s attire, including elaborate ringlet curls, sweeping gowns, and even more extravagant headwear.
The production also featured Richard Armitage as Percy Courtney, Annette Badland as Nelly Powers, and Shaun Parkes as The Showman.
Posting on Instagram, Jessie recently uploaded pictures from her stint portraying Miss Marie Lloyd, appearing alongside former colleague Lee Andrews, who took on the role of Freddie.
Admirers of the soap actress were quick to heap praise on Jessie for her performance in the film, with one individual commenting: “A wonderful drama and you were brilliant playing Marie.”
Another declared, “You were absolutely incredible and helped me to fall in love with Miss Marie Lloyd. I watched it over and over again, thank you.”
A third contributed: “You were INCREDIBLE,” while someone else remarked: “This was a sheer masterpiece and masterclass in acting by the wonderful and talented Jessie Wallace.”
