For nearly four decades, few characters have dominated British television quite like Sharon Watts — or, as countless viewers affectionately call her, Sharon EastEnders. Introduced during the early years of the soap, Sharon quickly became one of the most recognisable faces in Albert Square. Her character has weathered heartbreak, betrayal, reinvention, and triumph, cementing her place as a legend in modern TV culture. Within her first hundred episodes, viewers sensed she was no ordinary soap character; she was a force of drama, depth, and emotional resonance.
This article offers a comprehensive, in-depth look at her journey — from her earliest appearances to her most explosive recent storylines. You’ll find insights into her relationships, rivalries, iconic scandals, and cultural impact. We’ll also delve into her evolution across different eras, unravel her place within the Mitchell dynasty, and examine the broader social themes reflected through her character. Whether you’ve followed Sharon since the 1980s or you’ve only just discovered her in the newer storylines, this guide promises a rich, detailed exploration of everything that makes Sharon one of British television’s greatest enduring figures.
Who Is Sharon Watts? A Character Biography
Sharon Watts entered EastEnders as the adopted daughter of Den and Angie Watts, two unforgettable characters who shaped the earliest years of the soap. From the start, Sharon’s storyline was infused with emotional complexity. She grew up in the Queen Vic, surrounded by the chaotic and dramatic life of the pub, which shaped her personality, her loyalties, and her ambitions. Sharon’s character was written with a compelling blend of vulnerability and inner strength — qualities that helped viewers instantly connect with her.
Being raised under Den and Angie’s turbulent marriage gave Sharon emotional depth rarely seen in teenage characters at the time. Her early years were marked by a search for identity, belonging, and family stability. As she grew older, Sharon evolved into a confident, assertive woman with a strong moral compass — even when life pulled her into situations that challenged her boundaries. Over time, her backstory, motivations, and personal challenges made her an essential pillar of the show’s long-running narrative.
Sharon EastEnders – Evolution Through the Decades
To understand Sharon’s significance in EastEnders, you need to explore her evolution across the decades. In the 1980s, she was introduced as a bright, ambitious teenager trying to find her place in a world dominated by powerful adults. As EastEnders developed its identity as a gritty, socially aware drama, Sharon’s character became central to major emotional storylines.
The 1990s marked the era that transformed Sharon into a soap icon. Her relationships, conflicts, and personal discoveries were written with intensity and emotional honesty that resonated deeply with audiences nationwide. During the 2000s and 2010s, Sharon’s returns were often tied to dramatic turning points in the show. Each comeback revealed a new, more mature version of her — a woman shaped by experience, loss, and resilience.
In the current era, Sharon stands as one of the show’s most seasoned characters, offering continuity, stability, and emotional grounding as new generations join Albert Square.
The Most Iconic Sharon Storylines in EastEnders History
If one storyline solidified Sharon as a legend, it was Sharongate. This gripping plot — involving her affair with Phil Mitchell while married to Grant — has gone down as one of the greatest moments in British soap history. The revelation of Sharon’s betrayal, broadcast via a tape recording, captivated millions and created a cultural moment that fans still discuss decades later.
Beyond Sharongate, Sharon has faced countless emotional trials: the loss of her adoptive parents, the struggle to rebuild her life, relationships that challenged her identity, and decisions that shaped the future of the Square. Her most explosive confrontations and heartfelt scenes continue to resurface in conversations about the greatest EastEnders moments of all time.
These iconic storylines weren’t just memorable because of their shocking twists; they stood out because they explored intimacy, loyalty, power, and forgiveness — human themes that Sharon embodied so brilliantly.
Sharon and the Mitchell Family Dynasty
Sharon’s connection to the Mitchells is one of the longest, most complex family dynasties in UK soap history. Her relationships with Grant and Phil Mitchell formed the backbone of some of EastEnders’ most dramatic narratives. Sharon’s emotional bond with Grant was passionate and volatile, while her connection with Phil was forged through trust, betrayal, and redemption.
Over the years, Sharon’s entanglements with the Mitchell family shaped her story in profound ways. The Mitchells influenced her choices, her future, and even her identity. Whether she was aligned with them or at the centre of conflict, Sharon always brought emotional depth to the family’s narrative power struggles.
Even now, Sharon remains one of the few characters with enough history and personal strength to challenge the Mitchells while also being considered family.
Sharon’s Role in the Queen Vic – Power, Influence & Reinvention
The Queen Vic has always been at the heart of EastEnders — and Sharon, in many ways, defines its legacy. Her multiple eras as landlady were marked by leadership, emotional insight, and the ability to manage the pub’s turbulent atmosphere. Each time Sharon took charge of the Vic, she brought a new style and sense of direction to the show’s storytelling.
Her management often symbolised new beginnings for the Square. Fans watched her reinvent herself through challenges in the pub, whether dealing with personal crises or navigating power struggles with rival characters. Her presence in the Vic has always felt natural, as if the pub and Sharon share a mutual history and identity. Social media reactions to her various returns as landlady consistently demonstrate how beloved she remains.
Relationships & Family: The Heart of Sharon’s Story
Sharon’s relationships are central to her emotional journey. Her romances have ranged from intense and passionate to chaotic and heart breaking. But behind each partner, Sharon was written as a woman searching for loyalty, love, and emotional security.
Her role as a mother added another layer of depth, revealing a softer, protective side that resonated with viewers. This role highlighted her resilience and her willingness to rebuild her life after setbacks. Her friendships — sometimes fragile, sometimes powerful — were equally important, offering support, conflict, and unexpected alliances throughout her journey.
Family, whether blood or chosen, has always been the defining force in Sharon’s story.
How Sharon EastEnders Reflects Changing British Culture
One of the most remarkable aspects of Sharon’s character is how she reflects broader cultural shifts in Britain. Her early years highlighted the struggles of working-class families in London. Her relationships and personal dilemmas touched on themes of empowerment, self-worth, and the evolving role of women in society.
As the decades passed, Sharon’s storylines mirrored changing attitudes towards love, identity, mental health, and survival. She became a symbol of modern British womanhood — strong, complicated, and continually evolving. Through Sharon, EastEnders tackled social issues in ways that felt honest and grounded in real experiences.
Recent and Current Storylines – Where Is Sharon Now?
In recent years, Sharon has continued to play a pivotal role in EastEnders’ evolving narrative landscape. Her latest storylines have focused on rebuilding her life after personal upheavals, facing new emotional challenges, and taking responsibility for her future. Fans have followed her as she navigates shifting loyalties, complicated family dynamics, and unexpected twists that test her resilience.
Current plotlines suggest Sharon may be entering a new chapter filled with opportunity, personal growth, and perhaps a renewed sense of purpose. Producers have hinted at upcoming surprises, leaving fans eager to see how Sharon’s next move will reshape the Square.
Why Sharon Remains One of EastEnders’ Most Powerful Characters
Sharon’s longevity is a testament to her emotional complexity and adaptability. She brings depth to every storyline, whether facing betrayal, overcoming adversity, or taking charge during chaotic moments. Writers rely on her as a dramatic anchor — a character who can elevate any narrative and connect with audiences across generations.
Her power lies in her humanity: her flaws, her courage, her vulnerability, and her determination to keep moving forward. Few characters have inspired as many discussions, fan theories, and editorial analyses as Sharon Watts.
The Legacy of “Sharon EastEnders” in British Television
Sharon’s influence on British television cannot be overstated. She helped shape the emotional and narrative form of EastEnders during its most defining eras. Her storylines became cultural reference points, reflecting the social and emotional pulse of the UK.
Younger characters continue to be inspired by Sharon’s legacy, and new generations of viewers discover her through reruns, streaming platforms, and iconic scenes shared across social media. She has become more than a character — she is a symbol of British soap culture.
FAQs About Sharon EastEnders
When did Sharon first appear on EastEnders?
She first appeared in 1985 during the show’s earliest chapters, quickly becoming a central figure.
Who are Sharon’s family members?
Sharon is the adoptive daughter of Den and Angie Watts and the mother of her own children, forming a complex family history.
What was the Sharongate scandal?
Sharongate involved her affair with Phil Mitchell being revealed by Grant via a tape recording, becoming one of the most iconic soap moments in British TV history.
Has Sharon left and returned to the show?
Yes, she has taken several breaks, each return marking a major shift in her character arc and the show.
What is Sharon doing in EastEnders now?
She is currently navigating new personal challenges while remaining deeply involved in major storylines.
Conclusion
Sharon Watts continues to captivate audiences with her strength, complexity, and emotional depth. Her journey through EastEnders reflects decades of evolving storytelling and cultural change, making her a central figure in the legacy of British television. Sharon’s experiences — from heartbreak to reinvention — have resonated with millions, ensuring she remains one of the most celebrated characters in the soap’s history.
If you’re a fan of Sharon or want to explore more EastEnders characters, share your thoughts in the comments, tell us your favourite Sharon moments, or dive into more features on our site. Your engagement helps keep the legacy of Albert Square alive.
