Danniella Westbrook is a well-known English actress and television personality whose life, career, and struggles have played out in front of the public for decades. Famous for her role as Sam Mitchell in EastEnders, she is recognised for her resilience amid personal and professional challenges. This article provides an in-depth look at her background, family, career, controversies, net worth, and current news, followed by answers to frequently asked questions.
Early Life and Background
Danniella Westbrook was born on November 5, 1973, in Walthamstow, London. Her father, Andy, was a cab driver and later became a carpet contractor, while her mother, Sue, worked as a shop assistant. Westbrook grew up with two siblings—older half-brother Justin and younger brother Jay. Her upbringing was described as loving, but she has also shared that she endured child abuse from the age of seven.
From a young age, Danniella showed a keen interest in horse riding and dreamed of becoming a show jumper. Her ambition to perform, however, directed her toward show business after she started modelling at age seven. She initially attended a local state school but was bullied due to her television appearances, prompting her transfer to a private school and eventually the Sylvia Young Theatre School at age 12, which paved the way for her acting career.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2025) | $10–15 million (acting, real estate, endorsements, fashion line) |
| Net Worth (Earlier Reports) | ≈£500,000 (TV roles, reality shows, motivational speaking) |
| Birth Date | November 5, 1973 |
| Family | |
| Parents | Andy (cab driver/carpet contractor), Sue (shop assistant) |
| Siblings | Older half-brother Justin, younger brother Jay, half-sister Georgia |
| Children | Kai Jordan Westbrook (b. 1996, with Robert Fernandez); Jodie B Jenkins (b. 2001, with Kevin Jenkins) |
| Marriages | Ben Morgan (1998–1999); Kevin Jenkins (2001–2014, separated); Several engagements |
| Career Highlights | |
| Modelling | Started modelling at age 7, modelled children’s fashionware, face of Tammy Girl |
| Early Acting | Trained at Sylvia Young Theatre School |
| EastEnders | Iconic role as Sam Mitchell (1990–1996, 1999–2000, 2009–2010, 2016), 336 episodes |
| Reality TV | “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” (2003), “Dancing on Ice” (2010, 4th place), “Celebrity Big Brother” (2016, finalist) |
| Hollyoaks | Played Trudy Ryan (2013, 15 episodes) |
| Presenter/Other | Hosted “Derek Acorah’s Ghost Towns”; appeared on “The Weakest Link”, “Frank Stubbs Promotes”, “EastEnders Revealed” |
| Autobiographies | The public struggles with addiction, nasal septum damage, rehab, recovery, and motivational speaking |
| Personal Struggles | Older half-brother Justin, younger brother Jay, and half-sister Georgia |
Family and Personal Life
Danniella Westbrook’s family life has often been discussed in the media. She has two children: Kai Jordan Westbrook, born in 1996 to former partner Robert Fernandez, and Jodie B Jenkins, born in 2001 to her ex-husband Kevin Jenkins. Danniella has been married twice, first to Ben Morgan (for one year) and then to Kevin Jenkins, with whom she shares her daughter. Her relationships have included notable romances and high-profile engagements, often covered in tabloid press.
Career Highlights
EastEnders and Acting Fame
Danniella’s most famous role is Sam Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. She first appeared in 1990 and quickly became a household name in the UK. Her time on EastEnders included several stints, with dramatic storylines involving love triangles, family drama, and iconic moments. Her character became synonymous with British soap culture and her portrayals were both critically acclaimed and publicly adored.
Reality TV and Other Projects
Beyond EastEnders, Danniella has competed in popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! (2003), Dancing on Ice (2010, finishing fourth), and Celebrity Big Brother (2016, reaching the final). She has presented television shows, appeared in Hollyoaks as Trudy Ryan, and acted in films like Essex Vendetta and Mob Handed. She has also written two autobiographies: The Other Side of Nowhere (2006) and Faith, Hope and Clarity (2013).
Struggles and Controversies
Battle with Addiction
Danniella’s life has been marked by a well-publicised battle with cocaine addiction, which began in her teenage years. The addiction resulted in severe health issues, including the loss of her nasal septum, which was highly publicised in the early 2000s. Danniella has been candid about her struggles, discussing periods of rehabilitation, mental health crises, and suicide attempts. Her openness about these issues has raised awareness and provided inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
Legal and Health Issues
In addition to her drug addiction, Danniella has faced other controversies, including tumultuous relationships and being the target of online abuse. Her ongoing health issues have included battles with cancer and reconstructive surgery. In recent years, she has spoken openly about her experiences, including seeking psychiatric help and striving for recovery.
Media and Public Perception
The British tabloids have closely followed Danniella’s ups and downs, sometimes leading to negative public perception and bullying, both online and offline. She has addressed these experiences publicly, advocating for mental health and urging the cessation of constant bullying on social media.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
As of recent reports, Danniella Westbrook’s net worth is estimated to be around £500,000. Her income sources have included television roles, reality show appearances, live events, motivational speaking, and book royalties. Despite financial turbulence linked to her personal setbacks, she continues to earn from creative and media engagements.
Recent News
As of 2025, Danniella Westbrook continues to make headlines. She recently revealed her ongoing desire to participate in Strictly Come Dancing, although she believes she may be barred due to having previously competed in Dancing on Ice. Danniella has confirmed her single status and expressed an interest in appearing on Celebs Go Dating, showing she remains active in the entertainment scene. She has also released a new book, vowing openness and promising not to keep anyone’s secrets anymore.
FAQs About Danniella Westbrook
Who is Danniella Westbrook?
Danniella Westbrook is an English actress and television personality, best known for her portrayal of Sam Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders.
What are the most notable roles in her career?
Her most iconic role is Sam Mitchell in EastEnders, but she has also appeared in shows such as Hollyoaks, Frank Stubbs Promotes, Dancing on Ice, and Celebrity Big Brother.
What is Danniella Westbrook’s net worth?
Danniella Westbrook’s net worth is approximately £500,000, accrued from acting, reality television, motivational speaking, and book sales.
What controversies has she been involved in?
She is known for her highly publicised battle with cocaine addiction, resulting in significant health consequences, as well as media scrutiny for her personal relationships and mental health struggles.
What recent projects or news is she associated with?
Danniella has continued to advocate for mental health, attempted to join new reality TV ventures like Strictly Come Dancing, released a new book, and shared candid reflections on her life and career in interviews.
How many children does Danniella Westbrook have?
She has two children: Kai Jordan Westbrook (born 1996) and Jodie B Jenkins (born 2001).
What is her legacy in British television?
Danniella Westbrook will be remembered for her resilience and ability to return to the screen after personal setbacks. Her work on EastEnders has left an indelible mark on British television.
