Cheryl Fergison makes public plea to TV execs to sign her up for more shows – after EastEnders 40th anniversary snub
FORMER EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison made a public plea to TV execs – after being snubbed for the soap’s 40th Anniversary.
Cheryl, 60, played Heather Trott in the BBC soap for five years, until being killed off in 2012.
Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a short video addressing her hopes for a new project.
Cheryl began by explaining how she’d straightened her hair with a comb after washing it.
She noted how, as the day went on, her locks “turned into this very interesting period piece looking hair“.
The star continued: “[It’s] like I’m in some sort of period drama. Like some sort of Downton Abbey. Or even Call the Midwife.
“Is this fate telling me that somewhere, sometime soon… producers, casting directors, TV people of the biggest heights – is deciding to cast Cheryl Fergison in some wonderful new period drama?”
She captioned the update: “What say you all ? Can you see it ? Can the producers / casting people , TV channels and Film big bosses see it?
“Amber management are waiting on your email / call regarding this here client who’s ready to partake in their next biggest venture.”
Cheryl recently revealed how she’s “taking jobs for no money” amid her financial struggle, and says she’s “just surviving.”
The actress has opened up on her money woes, as she flogged tickets to fans to see her perform at a Chinese takeaway’s opening earlier this month.
Cheryl has also told how she was forced to claim benefits and turn to a food bank for help.
Now, opening up on her current financial situation, the actress said: “My health is good, but my finances will take a long time to recover.
“Until I have steady work, I’m not rich or comfortable—I’m just surviving. I’ve been saying yes to everything for no money, but I need to start valuing my work and asking for fair pay. Even my agent insists on it.”
It comes as EastEnders recently marked four decades on-screen with a huge week including a special live episode.
During the week, Anita Dobson made a surprise return as Angie Watts after 37 years.
The character died off-screen in 2002 – but appeared as an apparition to daughter Sharon (Letitia Dean) in a moment of need.
A younger Peggy Mitchell (Jaime Winstone) appeared via flashbacks, while Arthur (Bill Treacher) and Pauline Fowler (Wendy Richard) were shown in an old recording.
Unlike these fellow deceased Walford residents, Heather Trott did not make a comeback.
The fan favourite died back in 2012 after being bludgeoned by Ben Mitchell (then played by Joshua Pascoe).
Cheryl briefly reprised the role in 2016 via an old audio recording found by Dot Cotton (June Brown).
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Ricky Groves – Groves returned as Garry Hobbs, a character who has not been seen since 2009.
Cliff Parisi – Parisi returned as Minty Peterson, a character who was last seen on the square in 2010.
Ross Kemp – Kemp has returned to play Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the EastEnders 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.
Previously, the actress shared her well-wishes to EastEnders on their huge milestone via Instagram.
Speaking in a clip, Cheryl said: “Hi everybody. It’s the 40th Anniversary of EastEnders today and I’m wishing all the cast and crew a fantastic anniversary.
“I will be live on Channel 5 around half-five [or] quarter to six on the news, just chatting about my time at EastEnders.”
EastEnders continues on BBC One and iPlayer.