HomeTVAnita Dobson to play Queen Elizabeth I in BBC doc

Anita Dobson to play Queen Elizabeth I in BBC doc

Anita Dobson has been confirmed to play the role of Queen Elizabeth I in a new BBC documentary series airing this spring.

Currently known under the working title of Armada, the three-part BBC2 documentary will delve deep deep inside the royal corridors of power and 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.

Dobson is best-known for playing Angela ‘Angie’ Watts in EastEnders from 1985 to 1988. She’s also starred in New Tricks, Casualty, Holby City, Moving On, Hotel Babylon, Little Crackers and Red Dwarf. In 2009 she competed in Strictly Come Dancing with pro dancer Robin Windsor.

Talking about the role Anita said, ā€œElizabeth I is a gift of a role, and one Iā€™ve always hoped Iā€™d get the opportunity to play. Itā€™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 Iā€™ve had!ā€

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.

Armada is due to air on BBC2 this spring.

Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip is the owner and Editor of Entertainment Focus, and the Managing Director of PiƱata Media. With over 19 years of journalism experience, Pip has interviewed some of the biggest stars in the entertainment world. He is also a qualified digital marketing expert with over 20 years of experience.

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