The soap star kicked off her showbiz career at 11 years old

Molly Rainford as Anna Knight in EastEnders (Image: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron)

Actress Molly Rainford made her EastEnders debut in 2023, joining the soap as Anna Knight, the long-lost daughter of Cindy Beale, played by Michelle Collins.

Prior to her role in Albert Square, Molly began her entertainment journey at 11 years old as a contestant on Britain’s Got Talent in 2012.

During her time on the show, she showcased her vocal talents, performing Jennifer Hudson’s One Night Only and Beyoncé’s version of Ave Maria. Although she didn’t win the competition, her experience on BGT proved pivotal in her life and career.

Molly credits Britain’s Got Talent as a springboard for her aspirations, telling TV Mag: “I still like making music and I’ve always loved to perform.

Molly Rainford starred on BGT when she was 11 years old (Image: (Image: ITV))

“I think that’s why I love doing the job I do now. Britain’s Got Talent was definitely a springboard into what I wanted to do.”

Her impressive vocals caught the attention of show boss Simon Cowell, who helped her secure a place at the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School in London, courtesy of a Sony Music sponsorship.

Molly expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating: “He got the meetings to go ahead. I was very lucky. So many kids go on that show, and I never wanted to be a one-hit wonder, I wanted to do this when I’m older”, reports Plymouth Live.

“Instead of jumping straight into a record deal, Sony paid for my education and I couldn’t have got a better prize from the show.”

Following her stint on the popular talent show, Molly seized the opportunity to become a CBBC presenter at just 14, before scoring her big breakout role in the children’s sci-fi series ‘Nova Jones’ in 2021.

Tyler West and Molly Rainford met while competing on Strictly Come Dancing (Image: Simon Ackerman/WireImage)
Fast forward to 2022, and the young star dazzled audiences as she cha-cha-cha’d her way to the Strictly Come Dancing final alongside pro partner Carlos Gu.

While she may not have clinched the coveted Glitterball trophy, Molly certainly captured the heart of fellow competitor, DJ and broadcaster Tyler West.

The couple actively share snippets of their flourishing romance with their followers on Instagram, showcasing a relationship that’s clearly thriving.