Later in the decade, she demonstrated another side of her talent in EastEnders, embracing the show’s darker realism. From 1988 to 1989, she appeared as Joanne Francis, a commanding and morally complex character connected to the criminal organization known as “the Firm.” Sent to manage Strokes Winebar—secretly a hub for illegal gambling—Joanne quickly became entangled in conflict with Den Watts. Under Salem’s nuanced performance, the character evolved beyond a typical antagonist. What began as hostility gradually transformed into a layered relationship, driven by strong chemistry with Leslie Grantham. Her 37-episode storyline remains a memorable chapter from the series’ grittier era.
Away from television cameras, Salem found renewed creative fulfillment in audio drama, particularly through her long collaboration with Big Finish Productions. Reprising roles from Doctor Who and exploring new narratives, she became a cherished figure in the audio world.
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