After almost a decade away from Walford, Kirsty ‘Dotty’ Cotton is set to return to Albert Square this autumn and will be played by Milly Zero.
Milly Zero, best known for playing Hannah in CBBC’s All at Sea, takes over from Molly Conlin who played Dotty Cotton between 2008 and 2010.
Daughter of infamous Nick Cotton, Dotty had a very turbulent time when she was last in Walford. Proving the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, Dotty agreed to help her dad in a wicked plot to kill Dot. However, Dotty’s conscience got the better of her and she double-crossed her father leading him to flee Walford.
However, when Dot received a visit from Sandy, she was gobsmacked to learn she was Dotty’s mum – Nick had lied to them both, saying she was dead. As mother and daughter eventually reunited, Dotty left Walford in 2010 for a new life in America. Since then, Dot has made regular visits to see Dotty and most recently viewers learnt Dotty now lives with her mum in Wales.
Nine years later, Dotty returns to Walford as a young, confident woman who can manipulate her way to anything. Arriving with Dot and back to attend University, Dotty makes an instant impression on faces both old and new. With such a complex history with Albert Square, it’s safe to say Dotty’s return spells trouble with a capital T.
Speaking about joining EastEnders, Milly said “I am honestly so excited to be playing Dotty Cotton and joining the E20 family. Especially playing alongside June Brown, who I have been watching on my telly since I was a young girl. Her and Dotty have such an interesting relationship to explore with a complicated history, so I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them. It all feels very surreal and I am buzzing already!”
Whilst Jon Sen, Executive Producer for EastEnders added “We’re all super-excited to welcome Dotty back to the Square – sharp-witted and with an eye for human weakness, she’s not afraid to say what she thinks. We are also thrilled that Milly will be taking on the role – her versatility as an actress and ability to capture Dotty’s blend of sass, intelligence and vulnerability ensure that Dotty will return with a bang this autumn.”
EastEnders continues Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on BBC One