EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal is best remembered by fans for her portrayal of Suki Panesar in the BBC soap.
The soap star first joined the show in January 2020 initially as a soap villain, but has grown to become a fan favourite thanks to her sharp wit, mischievous nature and heart-wrenching storylines.
Suki is preparing to marry Eve Unwin after a complex love affair which saw her escape the clutches of her evil husband Nish Panesar. She has also been desperately trying to protect her family from his controlling grip.
These dramatic storylines have earned Balvinder praise for her performances, but what do we know about her life away from the show?
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Balvinder Sopal’s family background
Balvinder is very close with her younger sister Manjeet
Balvinder is the eldest of four children, raised in Gillingham, Kent. She shares a close bond with her sister, Manjeet Griffiths, who is also involved in the entertainment industry.
Manjeet has appeared in several films and television shows, including EastEnders and Holby City, and currently works as a producer for a production company in London.
Their parents have been a significant source of support throughout their careers. Balvinder has expressed that her parents are her “biggest fans” and have travelled across the country to attend her shows.
She fondly recalls how her father would assist her in setting up spaces for her work, despite the occasional disruption it caused at home.
Balvinder’s soap journey
Balvinder has starred in a number of British soaps
(Image: BBC/JACK BARNES)
Before her rise to fame in EastEnders, Balvinder built an impressive resume in British television. She made her debut in popular soaps with guest roles in Doctors and Casualty.
She also appeared in Hollyoaks, where she played Amrita Desai in 2018, and in Coronation Street in 2019 as a character named Ranita. Additionally, Balvinder was part of Emmerdale, appearing as DI Taylor in 2015 and 2017.
Her recurring presence in these iconic soaps cemented her reputation as a versatile actress capable of adapting to various roles. However, it is her portrayal of Suki in EastEnders that has truly allowed her to shine, giving her the platform to explore complex themes of power, vulnerability, and resilience.
Balvinder’s family loss and tragedy
The actress suffered family heartbreak this year
(Image: BBC)
Earlier this year, in February 2024, Balvinder faced the loss of her mother, Nirmal Sopal.
She shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, highlighting her mother’s warmth, adaptability, and the loving environment she cultivated at home.
Balvinder described her mother as their “rock, friend, confidant, guiding light,” and emphasised the profound impact she had on their lives.
She also wrote: “As we told people, the one thing constant in people’s memory was Mums huge warm smile, her ability to adapt to change & show love & respect to all.”
Beyond acting
The star has done other things outside of her role
(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
When she isn’t captivating audiences on screen, Balvinder leads a fulfilling life rooted in family, community, and creativity. The actress remains close to her siblings.
Balvinder is also known for her active involvement in social causes, including her work with the Kent Refugee Action Network.
She has often spoken about how her own experiences as a second-generation immigrant have shaped her understanding of identity and belonging, making her a powerful advocate for marginalized communities.
EastEnders airs Mondays-Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One.