Who plays Lily Slater in EastEnders and how old is she in real life?

Lily Slater sitting at the table wearing a dressing gown.
Who plays Lily Slater in EastEnders and how old is she in real life? (Image credit: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Lily Slater, the 12-year-old daughter of iconic matriarch Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner), has been at the forefront of a huge EastEnders storyline this year which saw her fall pregnant with classmate Ricky Jr's (Frankie Day) baby.

On top of dealing with her unexpected pregnancy, Lily is often struggling with teenage troubles and trying to cope with her chaotic home life at the Slaters, who are currently experiencing money troubles.

And with the actress now scooping up the award for Best Young Performer at The British Soap Awards 2023, you may be wondering who plays Lily Slater in EastEnders and how old is she in real life?

Lily Slater and Ricky Mitchell walk side by side

Friends Lily and Ricky Jr are currently expecting a baby together.  (Image credit: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Who plays Lily Slater in EastEnders?

Lily Slater is played by young actress Lillia Turner, who has portrayed the character since 2020 after she took over the role from Aine Garvey.

Lillia had a guest role in EastEnders prior to being cast as Lily Slater, where she played a character called Alyssa in two episodes in 2019. Alyssa was part of a football team coached by Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) and Mitch Baker (Roger Griffiths).

Lillia Turner collects her award for the Best Young Performer at The British Soap Awards 2023.

Lillia Turner won the award for Best Young Performer at The British Soap Awards 2023. (Image credit: Lifted Entertainment/ITV)

How old is Lily Slater in EastEnders?

Lily is 12 years old in EastEnders.

How old is Lillia Turner in real life?

Lillia is 13 years old in real life, making her slightly older than her soap alter ego.

It's been a common question amongst soap fans on whether the on-screen mother and daughter are related in real life.

Not only do they share the same surname, but they also look similar in appearance. However, despite the pair having the same last name, they are not actually related. And regarding their lookalike appearance, you can thank the casting agent for that!

Stacey Slater goes to school with Lily Slater

Lillia Turner with her on-screen mum Lacey Turner. (Image credit: BBC)

EastEnders airs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 7.30 pm on BBC One — see our TV Guide for full listings. You can also catch up on episodes on BBC iPlayer now.

Grace Morris
Staff Writer

Grace is a digital writer with WhatToWatch.com, where she writes series guides, recaps and features for must-watch shows and delivers all the latest soap news and reactions. She graduated from Anglia Ruskin University in 2020 with a degree in Writing and Film Studies, which only made her love for creative writing, film and TV grow stronger.

You'll usually find her watching the drama unfold in the latest reality series or much-loved UK soaps (usually with chocolate by her side!). She's an expert in EastEnders, Emmerdale, Coronation Street and everything reality-related from Selling Sunset and Married At First Sight UK to 90 Day Fiancé UK. Plus Netflix megahit Virgin River!

Grace also likes to explore new places with her friends and family and, of course, watch and read about the latest films and TV series.