Actress Simone Lahbib, famed for roles in EastEnders and Bad Girls, has spoken publicly for the first time about the profound impact of her brother's death, describing life as 'precious and fragile'.
A beloved brother's terminal diagnosis
The 60-year-old star's brother, Stephen, was given a terminal diagnosis in 2024 and told he might have two years to live. Tragically, he passed away just months later at the age of 45. Simone has now chosen to discuss this painful chapter as part of Strathcarron Hospice's 2026 campaign, 'What Makes Life Meaningful', to highlight the importance of end-of-life care.
The 'invaluable' support of hospice care
Stephen was initially cared for at home by the hospice's specialist nurses before being admitted for more complex symptom management. Simone praised the staff unreservedly, stating the Hospice at Home team was 'invaluable' during a very difficult and distressing time. 'When the time came for Stephen to be admitted to the Hospice, the staff made not only Stephen, but his family and friends feel welcome and important,' she said.
She emphasised the combination of professionalism and warmth shown by everyone, from medical staff to catering and front desk teams. Simone believes her brother made genuine friends during his stay and felt truly loved. The kindness, she noted, continued to support the family even after Stephen's death.
A legacy lived on through music
During his time at the hospice, Stephen was determined to finish unfinished songs with his friend and bandmate, John Drummond, from their group Mama Mayhem. Reflecting on his passion, Simone said: 'Stephen wanted to make every moment count and in his music he lives on. It will be treasured forever and played often.'
The actress also shared that the huge attendance at Stephen's funeral, which included nurses from the hospice, was a testament to the man he was and the care he received. The experience has fundamentally altered her perspective. 'Since his death, I’m more aware of how precious and fragile life is,' Simone admitted, reaffirming that like her brother, she prioritises loving and caring for family and friends.
Best known for playing Helen Stewart in ITV's Bad Girls and joining the cast of EastEnders in 2020 as predatory care worker Katy Lewis, Simone Lahbib's candid interview sheds a powerful light on grief, care, and what truly matters.
