Anita Dobson to play Queen Elizabeth I in BBC2 documentary series
Anita Dobson is to play the role of Queen Elizabeth I in the provisionally titled Armada, the upcoming BBC2 documentary series airing this spring.
Delving deep inside the royal corridors of power, the three part series will take an intimate look at the ageing and vulnerable Elizabeth in her most private moments as she nervously awaits her fate in the battle. With pockmarks scarring her face, rotting teeth and her hair falling out – behind closed doors, Elizabeth would have been barely recognisable from her powerful presence in court.
With unique access to recently discovered documents, dramatic reconstruction and CGI, this series will shed new light on these iconic events of European history. Historian and experienced sailor Dan Snow will take us to the front line of battle and vividly recreate the majestic, intimidating Armada. Alongside some of the world’s leading experts, he will trace the tensions, confusions and recriminations that shaped the battle.
“Elizabeth I is a gift of a role, and one I’ve always hoped I’d get the opportunity to play. It’s been a real honour to work with the BBC History team to recreate these pivotal moments in history, and playing a queen was one of the most enjoyable times I’ve had!” – Anita Dobson
Anita is best known for her appearances in EastEnders as Angie Watts between 1985 and 1988. The exploits of the fiery but vulnerable Queen Vic landlady and her cheating hubby Den (Leslie Grantham) were crucial in establishing the BBC’s flagship soap opera. The 1986 Christmas Day episode, in which Angie was served divorce papers by Den, remains the most watched UK television broadcast of all time – with a huge 30.15million viewers.
The actress’s other television credits include New Tricks, Casualty, Moving On, Hotel Babylon, Little Crackers and Red Dwarf. In 2011, Anita took part in Strictly Come Dancing and lasted nine weeks in the competition.
