The former Karen Taylor actress reveals how she transformed her body, mind — and future

A Transformation That Turned Heads

Former EastEnders star Lorraine Stanley shocked fans this week with a jaw-dropping reveal: a 6.5-stone weight-loss transformation that has left her looking almost unrecognizable from her days playing Walford’s brash but beloved Karen Taylor.

The 49-year-old actress debuted her new look at a mental health gala on Monday, wearing a satin gown with a plunging neckline and no bra. The sleeveless dress showed off her toned arms and radiant confidence — and fans couldn’t get enough.

Among the reactions, her ex-co-star Balvinder Sopal summed up what many were thinking, simply writing:
“Holy moly.”

The Journey Behind the Glamour

Lorraine has been open about her weight-loss journey, recently confirming she underwent gastric sleeve surgery two years ago after becoming resistant to weight-loss injections.

Speaking to New magazine, she said:
“I went to a London clinic, paid an awful lot of money and had it done. It’s hands-down the best thing I’ve ever done — both for me and for my family.”

The lifestyle changes didn’t stop there. In July, Lorraine revealed she had quit alcohol and celebrated five months of sobriety, sharing:
“Still had a good night dancing! #Sobriety.”

A New Chapter Post-Walford

Since exiting EastEnders two years ago after her character was written out, Lorraine has undergone a full personal overhaul. She confessed she once watched herself on the soap and “could barely look at myself.” That moment became a turning point.

In August, she tied the knot with her longtime partner Mark, capping off a whirlwind year of change. The couple, together for 12 years, exchanged vows in a sun-drenched countryside ceremony in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.

Lorraine looked stunning in a white ruffled gown with pearl accessories and a polka dot print, while Mark beamed in a green three-piece suit. Their daughter Nancy, 10, served as flower girl, wearing a pale pink princess dress with floral accents in her hair.

The emotional ceremony was attended by close friends and family — including her former on-screen son, Danny Walters, who played Keanu Taylor before his character’s dramatic exit last Christmas.