EastEnders star Rita Simons, known for the iconic character Roxy Mitchell has opened up about an upcoming surgery as she battles with the debilitating health condition scoliosis. The actress, 49, is set to go under the knife for a breast reduction to help with the pain she endures.

The soap star opened up to her followers on Sunday, and started by sharing that she is giving up vaping. She shared a photo of an x-ray of her spine, and a video showing off her breasts, along with the caption: “Apart from the fact it’s a rancid habit that needed to go, there was another reason… surgery in 3 weeks. It’s finally time to say goodbye to my massively annoying boobs.”

Discussing the pain her boobs cause, she said: “The pain they cause my back just isn’t necessary anymore. This chapter seems to be about getting rid of everything that doesn’t serve me… the womb, the alcohol, the sugar, the fags/vape…so let’s do the boobs too. The boobs definitely do not serve me.”

The actress continued: “Because of my particular scoliosis and the state of the rest of my back, I’m not a candidate for spinal surgery. My spine can’t be ‘fixed’, so my focus is on doing everything I can to reduce pain and slow the progression of the curves. They’ll never be cured — so we work with what we’ve got”

“I can’t lie… pain relief aside, I’m also looking forward to not having the rib hump at the back and the two mountains at the front. Let’s lose those mountains”.

Rita went on to explain how ‘adult scoliosis isn’t talked about enough’ before letting her followers know that she would keep them ‘posted’ throughout the process.

Her followers sent their well wishes and applauded her for spreading awareness. One person said: “I had mine out in October best decision I’ve ever made! Good luck xxx”, while another added: “I had no idea you had scoliosis! I too have scoliosis, and I’ve struggled to find anyone to relate to! Sending you so much love!”.

A third penned: “Best of luck Rita, good on you for sharing your story and raising awareness wishing you a speedy recovery, take care”, while another added: “I’ve got scoliosis so I understand the pain from this causes. Praying for you lovely”.

The soap icon appeared in the BBC soap opera from 2007 until 2017 as well as special appearances in 2019 and 2023. Since leaving EastEnders, she has since appeared in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks as Marie Fielding but it’s her role as Roxy which has left a lasting impression on fans.