EastEnders Vicki Fowler star Alice Haig’s family with very famous film star dad
EastEnders newcomer Alice Haig joined the BBC soap as Vicki Fowler last year
Alice Haig burst onto the EastEnders scene as Vicki Fowler last year(Image: BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
Newcomer Alice Haig made her entrance on EastEnders as Vicki Fowler last year. Whilst it’s a massive step for Alice, it shouldn’t come as a shock as performing prowess clearly runs in the family.
Prior to Alice, 40, securing the part, Vicki was portrayed by Scarlett Alice Johnson, who departed the BBC soap in 2004. Now Vicki has returned to the square, and actress Alice appears remarkably familiar.
Whilst you may spot her from her previous television appearances, she’s also the d.e.a.d ringer for her incredibly famous father. Alice is the daughter of David Haig, an actor and playwright who’s most celebrated for his part as Bernard in Four Weddings and a Funeral.
In addition to crafting numerous acclaimed plays, he boasts an exceptionally extensive filmography featuring some rather meaty parts and has even received an MBE for his contributions to the arts.
David, 70, appeared alongside Rowan Atkinson in The Thin Blue Line, and has also secured roles in major programmes including Doc Martin, The Thick of It, and Downton Abbey.
EastEnders newcomer Alice Haig joined the BBC soap as Vicki Fowler last year(Image: BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
One of his most memorable appearances came in the hit series K.i.l.l.i.n.g Eve, where he portrayed Sandra Oh’s spy colleague Bill – who met a violent end at the hands of Jodie Comer’s assassin Villanelle.
David is wed to Julia Gray, who performs under the stage name Jane Galloway, with the pair sharing five children: Alice, Caroline, Fred, Harry and Connie, reports the Mirror.
Following her father’s career path, Alice trained at RADA and has previously collaborated with the BBC, portraying journalist Sophie in the comedy Rain Dogs and a nurse in This Is Going to Hurt. She also landed a part in the Disney+ series Andor – a Star Wars spin-off – before revealing her Walford arrival.
When Alice’s casting was revealed, she expressed her eagerness to delve into Vicki’s character and steer her in a fresh direction after the character’s lengthy absence from the Square.
Alice is the offspring of David Haig, a distinguished actor and playwright celebrated for his portrayal of Bernard in the beloved film Four Weddings and a Funeral(Image: Dave M. Benett/Getty Images)
She commented: “I am so excited. I have always watched the show, and I was born in February 1985, so I’m the same age as EastEnders! It’s so cool to be playing a character like Vicki – we think we know her, but a lot has changed. I can’t wait for all the Albert Square drama ahead.”
Scarlett was reportedly given the chance to reprise her role as Vicki but declined the offer, being delighted for Alice to assume the character.
Her representative told The Sun: “Scarlett was approached, and was flattered to be asked to return, but the timing wasn’t right for her to step back into the role. She wishes Alice Haig and the show all the very best.”
EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
