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For many of us, dreams take time to come true, but few can claim patience quite like comedian Shazia Mirza, who this week finally landed a role in EastEnders 37 years after she first asked BBC bosses for a part.
The award-winning stand-up comic and writer made her surprise debut on Thursday’s episode of the long-running soap, appearing as a doctor treating Lauren Branning and Peter Beale’s son Jimmy, who has been diagnosed with optic nerve and chorioretinal coloboma.
Her cameo was warmly received by fans, many of whom only learned about her decades-long ambition when Shazia herself posted the story on Instagram shortly after the episode aired.
From rejection letter to Albert Square
Shazia shared a heartfelt post showing an old letter she had received from the BBC back in the late 1980s, when she was a teenager.
In the letter, the BBC politely turned her down, writing:
"We get so many young people wanting parts on EastEnders, that it is our policy to have to say no. We are obliged to use only Equity members in the making of EastEnders. We are sorry we have not been able to assist you, but hope you will continue to enjoy the programme."
Fast forward to 2025, and Shazia included a photo of herself on set in Walford, finally fulfilling that childhood dream.
She captioned her post:
"37 years ago I wrote to @BBCEastEnders asking for a part and 37 years later I got one. It’s an honour."
A proud moment
Fans and followers flooded her comments with congratulations, praising her perseverance and her touching tribute to following one’s dreams no matter how long it takes.
One fan wrote: “Proof that it’s never too late, what an inspiration!” while another said: “You deserve it, Shazia. Well done!”
The comedian, who is known for her sharp wit and thought-provoking stand-up routines, has previously appeared on numerous panel shows and at international comedy festivals, but the soap world is a new addition to her CV, and she seemed to relish every second of it.
What’s next?
While Shazia’s appearance was just a brief cameo, many viewers are already calling on the BBC to bring her back for a longer stint.
One fan posted on X: “Loved seeing @shaziamirza1 in EastEnders tonight. Can we keep her, please?”
