Judith Jacob's Life and Career: From EastEnders to Death in Paradise

Judith Jacob's Life and Career: From EastEnders to Death in Paradise

Judith Jacob has officially joined the cast of Death in Paradise as Dorna Bray, adding another impressive role to her long and varied career. Many viewers, however, will recognize her from her unforgettable time on EastEnders, where she played Carmel Jackson in the late 1980s.

Judith Jacob Joins Death in Paradise

The latest season of Death in Paradise has kept fans on the edge of their seats, with DI Mervin Wilson (played by Don Gilet) delving deeper into his past. His journey to Saint Marie began as a search for answers about his estranged mother’s death. However, as the mystery unfolds, Mervin finds himself involved in a gripping murder case.

A recent episode provided further insight into his mother’s passing, leading him to suspect foul play. The character of Dorna Bray, portrayed by Judith Jacob, has become central to this mystery. First-look images showcase Jacob in character, holding an urn, hinting at an emotional storyline ahead.

Judith Jacob’s Iconic EastEnders Role

While her appearance in Death in Paradise has generated excitement, Judith Jacob is best known for her portrayal of Carmel Jackson in EastEnders. She joined the BBC soap in 1986 and remained a key character until her departure in 1989.

During her time on EastEnders, Carmel endured a harrowing domestic abuse storyline involving her husband, Matthew Jackson (played by Steven Hartley). This was the first time the show tackled the issue of domestic violence, making her role historically significant. Carmel eventually left Albert Square to care for her mother after learning of her father’s death.

A Versatile Acting Career

Before her EastEnders fame, Jacob had already built a strong acting portfolio. She starred in Channel 4’s sitcom No Problem! and the medical drama Angels. Over the years, she made appearances in numerous popular British TV shows, including:

• The Real McCoy

• The Queen’s Nose

• Holby City

• My Family

• Doctors

Jacob has consistently showcased her versatility, moving seamlessly between comedy and drama.

A Pioneer in Black British Theatre

Beyond television, Judith Jacob played a pivotal role in pioneering Black British theatre. She was a founding member of BiBi Crew, the UK’s first all-Black female comedy troupe, established in 1991. She also hosted Judith Jacob Yabba Yabbas with Friends at Hackney Empire, where she interviewed fellow entertainers such as Tameka Empson and Noel McKoy.

Her stage credits include appearing in Barry Reckord’s White Witch at Bloomsbury Theatre, further solidifying her legacy in British drama.

Family and Legacy

Judith Jacob is also a mother to daughter Aisha, who has followed in her footsteps. Aisha Jacob Williams appeared alongside her mother in EastEnders during the 1980s, playing Carmel Jackson’s on-screen niece.

With her decades-spanning career and dedication to storytelling, Judith Jacob remains a respected figure in British television and theatre. Her addition to Death in Paradise brings another layer of depth to the series, making season 14 one of the most compelling yet.

When to Watch

Death in Paradise airs Fridays at 9pm on BBC One. Episodes are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.