EastEnders Star Faces Court for 24mph Speeding with Ailing Wife, Daughter

Colin Salmon, known for his role in EastEnders, faced a court hearing recently due to speeding. The actor was recorded driving at 24 mph in a 20 mph zone near his home in Acton, West London. During the court proceedings, he expressed his emotional struggles while caring for his seriously ill wife and daughter.

Details of the Speeding Incident

The offence occurred on March 31, with Salmon already holding nine penalty points from previous infractions this year. These included running a red light and not driving with due care. He pleaded guilty to speeding, resulting in a fine of £666, alongside court costs of £130 and a £266 victim surcharge. This latest incident added three points to his record, which would usually lead to an automatic six-month driving ban.

Family Responsibilities

Colin Salmon, 64, highlighted his crucial role as the primary caregiver for his family. His wife, Fiona Hawthorne, suffers from interstitial lung disease and urgently requires a double lung transplant. Their daughter, Sasha, was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019 and also needs frequent medical attention.

• Wife: Fiona Hawthorne – suffers from interstitial lung disease.
• Daughter: Sasha Salmon – diagnosed with lymphoma.

During his court testimony, Salmon described how his wife has “months, not years” to live. He abandoned his international acting career to take on a role in EastEnders, which allowed him to remain close to his family. He shared that the production team has been accommodating of his family’s health needs.

Professional Background

Colin Salmon portrays George Knight in EastEnders, a character he joined in 2023. His extensive acting career includes roles in three James Bond films. He also participated in the reality show Strictly Come Dancing and has been involved in various charitable endeavors.

Despite his recent health challenges, including recovery from hip replacement surgery and the aftermath of COVID-19, Salmon remains dedicated to his family and work. He is also a patron for charities like the African-Caribbean Leukaemia Trust and the Richard House Children’s Hospice.

Conclusion

Colin Salmon’s recent court appearance serves as a reminder of the challenges he faces as a caregiver amidst personal and professional obligations. His commitment to his family is evident, and he continues to navigate these difficulties while maintaining his acting career on EastEnders.