About Rita Simons

Rita has previously appeared in Mile High and Dream Team.

She met Samantha Janus (Roxy) for the first time at the auditions and they instantly bonded: "We just spark off each other so well."

Rita's a massive EastEnders fan: "I’ve always watched it and it has always been my dream job. I walk around now touching wood because I can't believe I’m here."

She loves playing Roxy: "She’s fun and for all her faults, she’s warm. She’s quirky and amusing and not all that bright all the time."

She's won countless awards for playing Roxy, including Best Newcomer at the Inside Soap Awards 2008 and Most Popular Newcomer at the National Television Awards 2008.

She has twin daughters, Jaimee and Maiya.

Rita's uncle is Sir Alan Sugar.