In the early ’90s, millions watched as she grew up on TV — but just a few years later, cocaine addiction nearly claimed her life.
This is the shocking story of Danniella Westbrook, one of the biggest soap opera stars the TV world has ever seen.
A collapsed jaw
Once a household name on EastEnders, a 16-year-old Daniella Westbrook captivated audiences with her fiery performance, becoming one of the UK’s most beloved soap stars.
But behind the scenes, her rise to fame came at a steep price. Today, the actress faces the harsh realities of her past: crumbling bones, a collapsed jaw, and a shattered cheekbone — a consequence of years spent battling addiction.
So how did this talented actress end up here?
Dreamed of fame
Daniella Westbrook was born in 1973 and grew up in Loughton, just outside London. From a young age, she dreamed of fame, and by the time she was seven, she had already launched her modeling career. Unlike many in the entertainment industry, Daniella didn’t come from a showbiz background — her father was a taxi driver, and her mother worked as a shop assistant.
Despite this, her career took off early. As a child model, she landed gigs with major global brands like Coca-Cola and Opel. One opportunity led to another, and before long, Daniella found herself stepping into the world of acting — an industry that would soon make her a household name.
As a child, she played a young thief in Melvyn Bragg’s London Programme and even performed in the West End production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She also made a brief appearance in Grange Hill and starred in the music video for Queen’s The Invisible Man.
But perhaps the most ironic moment came when, at just 11 years old, she appeared as a background extra in EastEnders, roller-skating across Albert Square.
Her local newspaper even featured her picture with the caption: “Who knows? One day she may be the show’s star!” Little did they know just how true that prediction would become.
Be First to Comment