LOVE on the RUN

There’s a bust-up at the registry office when Tiffany and Keegan elope, says Eastenders actress Maisie Smith

eastenders’ young lovers Tiffany and Keegan elope to Scotland this week... with their furious families in hot pursuit. Walford’s answer to Romeo and Juliet decide running away is the only way they can be together and secretly set off to get married in Gretna Green.

Maisie Smith, who plays 16-yearold Tiffany, says, ‘They’ve been through a lot and have found happiness together. They decide to get married as soon as possible when Keegan gets into a bit of trouble. It’s quite rushed, and happens quicker than intended.

‘Another dilemma they have is that their families aren’t supportive. They’re probably right, as Tiff and Keegan are quite young! It’s a classic Romeo and Juliet storyline.’

The drama starts when Keegan, who’s 18, is wound up by Ian after asking him for a job and lashes out. Worried about the consequences, Tiffany suggests they tie the knot in Scotland and from then on events spiral out of control, leading to a big family showdown in Gretna Green.

The couple’s secret is blown by Louise Mitchell, who enjoys telling Keegan’s mother Karen what her son is up to. ‘Louise and Tiffany aren’t the best of friends, and she doesn’t care if other people find out,’ says Maisie.

Stunned, Karen springs into action with Keegan’s sister Chantelle and dad Mitch, as well as Tiffany’s greatuncle Jack Branning, foster sister Whitney and aunt Sonia Fowler in a race against the clock to stop them.

While Maisie is sworn to secrecy over whether they make it down the aisle, she says Friday’s episode in the registry office will be one to remember. ‘The scenes were really funny to play, and we couldn’t stop laughing every time we filmed

them,’ says Maisie. ‘I can’t say what happens but it’s very eventful.’

Maisie is right behind her character. ‘I’ve got relatives who’ve been together since they were 15,’ she says, ‘so I’m rooting for Tiffany and Keegan.’

Whatever happens, there’s more to come from Tiffany and Keegan. ‘There’ll be lots of happiness. That’s shocking to believe on Eastenders! But it’ll be an emotional journey.’

Maisie, 18, has played Tiffany since she was six, but took three years out for her GCSES. Since then

Tiffany’s been a drug courier and the target of child groomer Evie Steele, which led to her being raped.

On joining Eastenders, Maisie says, ‘I had no idea it was such a big deal. I just thought it was fun.’

But Maisie, who enjoys singing and has completed a college course in musical theatre, is happy her parents encouraged her in the role.

‘I’m so lucky,’ she says. ‘Who’d have thought a bit of fun would end up becoming my career?’ ■