EastEnders star Tameka Empson has called for a key change for her character Kim Fox.

Things have been going well for Kim recently, both professionally – as an online influencer (known as The Kimfluencer) – and within her wider family. Unlike her sister Denise, who found herself in a complicated love triangle this year, Kim has been enjoying a steady relationship with Howie Danes.

But despite the current harmony in the Fox-Trueman house, Empson – who has appeared on the BBC soap since 2009 – has highlighted the one thing missing from Kim’s life.

Speaking exclusively on the red carpet at the British Soap Awards, Empson was asked whether fans had made the right choice voting for Denise to be with Jack Branning instead of Ravi Gulati.

“Listen, the thing with Denise, she was going to be happy either way! Do you know what I mean? It’s a win-win situation,” she told Digital Spy, before pointing out that Kim could do with some new jewellery (and a proposal) from her man.

“My thing was: what about Kim? What about Kim? That’s what I want to know. Howie still hasn’t put a ring on it. Do you know what I mean? She’s wearing her own ring. He hasn’t actually put a ring on it. So let’s see what happens.”

Asked if Howie would popping the question anytime soon, Empson, who was recently confirmed as a contestant for The Celebrity Traitors, added: “Sooner rather than later! But let’s see!”

The actor also teased an upcoming trial in Kim’s future, claiming it will be a “very emotional” period for the usually comedic character.

“For Kim, she will be challenged emotionally, I shall say. Very emotional. I think the audience will understand her pain,” she said. “Maybe I’ve said too much there, maybe I’ve said too much! But yeah, it’s going to be great.”