A closer look at former Eastenders star Tanya Franks who is 'dating' Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell

Scott Mitchell, the widower of Barbara Windsor has reportedly found love again with former EastEnders actress Tanya Franks three years after Barbara died from Alzheimer's in 2020.

Speaking to The Sun Scott, 60, said “Life feels really good right now and we are enjoying some special time together”.

The pair reportedly met when training for the London Marathon in 2019 alongside other EastEnders actors to raise money for an Alzheimer's charity. Barbara was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2014 and Tanya shared on GMB that her stepfather was diagnosed in 2013. 

Scott revealed that after running three marathons the recent one would be his last he said "This is definitely my last marathon and my last time running for Babs' Army," he said, before adding: "I know I said that last time but this one really is my last one. It doesn't get easier."

Who is Tanya Franks?

Tanya, 55, is an English actress, producer and writer. She has starred in many television shows including Family Affairs, The Bill, Pulling, and Broadchurch. But she is best known for her role as Rainie Cross in EastEnders. 

The actress started her career in theatre and founded the film and theatre production company Stock-pot Productions in 1993.

Tanya was previously married to actor James Barriscale who also starred in The Bill and Eastenders. The pair were pictured together in 2022 but the date or reason for the split is not known. and they don’t have any children. 

The Daily Star previously reported that the actress doesn't drink alcohol and has also given up wheat and sugar.