EastEnders star Laila Morse has reportedly been battling cancer for a second time, with her co-star Lacey Turner revealing details of the actress’s private health ordeal.
Laila, 81, who is best known to millions of viewers for playing Big Mo Harris in the BBC soap, was reportedly diagnosed with cancer in 2025, almost 20 years after previously overcoming breast cancer.
The revelation comes from Lacey Turner’s new autobiography, Gold Dust: My Life (So Far) with the Women Who Shaped Me, in which the Stacey Slater actress opens up about the difficult experience.
According to the revelations, doctors initially believed Laila had polyps before discovering that they were cancerous.
The actress subsequently underwent surgery to remove the cancer.
Laila had previously spoken about her battle with breast cancer in 2005, making the latest news particularly difficult given everything she had already been through.
Despite the frightening experience, Lacey’s account suggests that Laila remained remarkably positive throughout her treatment.
Laila has been a familiar face on EastEnders for decades, with Big Mo becoming one of Walford’s most recognisable and enduring characters.
Her character has been involved in countless dramatic storylines over the years, and viewers have continued to welcome her appearances in the Square.
The news has also highlighted the close relationships between members of the EastEnders cast, with Lacey choosing to share the story as part of her reflections on the women who have shaped her life.
Fans will undoubtedly be sending their best wishes to Laila following the revelation.
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Lacey Turner has also spoken about the axing of her colleague and why she quit Eastenders.
You can read all of our daily updated EastEnders spoilers here.
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