More About Shona McGarty

Shona McGarty | Beginnings

Shona’s passion for performing began at an early age. She spent six years involved in local amateur musical theatre, appearing in productions including The Wizard of Oz. Her screen debut came in 2007 with the short film What Goes Around, and just a year later, at the age of sixteen, she secured the role that would define the next chapter of her career. As Whitney Dean, she portrayed one of EastEnders’ most challenging and emotionally charged characters, earning widespread praise and establishing herself as one of Britain’s leading soap actresses.

Shona McGarty |  After Eastenders; Awards and Music

Throughout her time on EastEnders, Shona received recognition from across the television industry, earning nominations for honours including Best Newcomer at the British Soap Awards, Best Actress at the Inside Soap Awards and Serial Drama Performance at the National Television Awards.

Alongside her acting career, she continued to pursue her love of music. She performed A Change Is Gonna Come for BBC Children in Need in 2012 and later joined charity music collective The Celebs, contributing to fundraising singles including Rock With Rudolph and Let It Be in support of organisations such as Great Ormond Street Hospital and Mind.

Following her departure from EastEnders in 2024, Shona has continued to expand her career through new opportunities in music, television and live entertainment.

Shona McGarty | I’m A Celeb…

In 2025, Shona McGarty took on a completely new adventure as a contestant on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!. Swapping the familiar surroundings of Albert Square for the Australian jungle, she threw herself into every aspect of camp life, tackling demanding Bushtucker Trials with determination and good humour. Her down-to-earth personality, resilience and authenticity quickly won over both her fellow campmates and viewers at home, helping her secure a place in the final and finish in an impressive third position. The experience showcased a different side of Shona, highlighting her adaptability, courage and ability to thrive outside her comfort zone.

Shona McGarty  |  Speaker

Drawing on her experiences both in the spotlight and beyond, Shona speaks candidly about resilience, personal development and embracing change. Her talks explore the challenges of stepping away from long-term success, maintaining wellbeing under public scrutiny and finding the confidence to pursue new ambitions. Combining honesty, humour and insight, she inspires audiences to embrace reinvention, overcome uncertainty and approach life’s next chapter with confidence.

Topics:

– Bravery and Transition: When It’s Time to Leave What’s Comfortable

– Overcoming Anxiety, Risk, and the Pressure of Public Life

Call +44 1753 439 289 or email Great British Speakers now to book Shona McGarty for your corporate event.

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