EASTENDERS star Danniella Westbook has thanked people for “throwing stones” at her over the years – saying without it she wouldn’t be here writing a third book.
The former soap actress took to her Instagram yesterday to announce her upcoming literary release and branded her “car-crash addiction days” as a “blessing” to help others “suffering in silence”.
Danielle penned alongside a glam selfie: “Today I am grateful for my journey my life my mistakes and the fact I’ve made them and faced them publicly….
“People criticize me ridicule me judge me and throw hate at me … and it’s all ok.
“People are entitled to have an opinion and also freedom of speech. And I actually would like to thank people for throwing stones at me because without some of that hate I may well not be sat here today writing my third book.
She continued: “The glass is always half full never half empty people remember that no matter how hard life gets …
“And the fact I’ve made my mistakes and had to live my car crash addiction days so publicly is actually a blessing because it enables me to use my platform to let others that are suffering theirs in silence privately read my story and know they are not alone and that a new way of life is possible…
“So my third book is currently under way and both myself and @socialinspiregroup look forward to sharing it with you all soon . Much love always Westie xxxx”.
Last week, Danniella shared some snapshots from her EastEnders past after she was snubbed to reprise her role as Sam Mitchell.
Taking to Instagram, a nostalgic Danniella shared two pictures from 1992 which saw her appear on television magazines.
The 48-year-old soap star rose to fame in the BBC soap and became known for portraying the role of Sam across 36 years until 2016.
In one image on the TV Times, Danniella’s character can be seen cuddling up to her on-screen husband Ricky Butcher, played by Sid Owen.
The former EastEnders star hasn’t been seen in Walford Square since 2016 after she attended the funeral of her mum, Peggy Mitchell.
However, with her older brother Phil Mitchell now on the run with Raymond, Sam’s explosive return could be on the cards – but Danniella won’t be taking on the role.
Commenting on the rumours, Daniella wrote on Instagram: “EastEnders have not contacted me to say they are recasting or if they have, but that’s ok.
“Whoever plays Sam next, I wish all the luck in the world to them. Enjoy.”
Her celebrity pals and followers rushed to the comments section after seeing her post, with many telling Danniella that her role is irreplaceable.
Wayne Lineker penned: “Babe, there’s only one Sam Mitchell.”
Someone else shared: “You’ll always be the best Sam Mitchell end of.”
While a third added: “They should definitely bring you back. You’re a very good actor. Won’t be the same.”
