EastEnders star Wendy Richard is recovering from a cancer operation.
The 59-year-old actress found a lump on her neck while on holiday.
She was given the all-clear by doctors after an earlier battle with breast cancer seven years ago.
Richard, who has played Pauline Fowler since EastEnders launched in 1985, is taking a break from the series to recuperate.
EastEnders executive producer, Louise Berridge, told BBC News Online: "Wendy discovered a lump on her neck while on holiday, and this has been promptly removed.
"It is too early to say what further treatment will be required, but all signs are hopeful, and Wendy herself is very positive in her outlook."