Love Against All Odds: Anita Dobson Reveals the Turmoil of Falling for Brian May While He Was Married
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
In a candid revelation, Anita Dobson opens up about the tumultuous beginning of her relationship with legendary Queen guitarist Brian May, sharing how their love story unfolded against the backdrop of a complicated personal situation. Dobson, best known for her role as Angie Watts in EastEnders, and May, now 77, endured significant challenges when they first met, as he was still married to his first wife, Chrissie Mullen.
Their love story began in 1986, when Dobson, then just starting her career on the iconic British soap, attended a film preview and met May, who was married and had three children. The chemistry between the two was undeniable, but Dobson, 75, was heartbroken when she learned that May was already in a relationship. She recalls feeling betrayed and devastated by the revelation, admitting, “I was heart-wrenched when he told me. We had a terrible row. I was insulted. I thought ‘how dare you go out with me if you’re married?’”
Despite the initial conflict, Dobson and May chose to maintain a respectful distance until they could navigate the complexities of their situation. As Dobson reflects, the journey was far from easy: “We went through hell, but I believe it was true love.” The path they took was fraught with heartache, as Dobson explains, “Everybody gets hurt, and, if there are kids, it’s not good, but if people fall in love, there’s nothing you can do about it.”
The strain of the affair was particularly difficult due to the presence of May’s family. However, Dobson emphasizes that love, though complicated, prevailed. “Even if you separate, the ache is still there. It stops you moving on because it’s unresolved.” Eventually, May and his first wife separated in 1988, paving the way for Dobson and May to build their future together.
In 2000, after years of navigating the ups and downs of their relationship, Dobson and May tied the knot, a union that has lasted to this day. Dobson, who had previously been engaged four times before marrying May, admits that the road to commitment wasn’t easy. But she ultimately recognized that their enduring love deserved to be celebrated: “We’ve gone through all the c**p. It’s time we had the good stuff. So I said, ‘Brian, I think I’m ready to get married.’”
The couple’s journey also inspired one of Queen’s most iconic hits, “I Want It All,” written by May in 1989. Their love story, with all its twists and turns, remains a testament to the resilience of true love.
As Dobson reflects on their past, she notes, “Nobody’s perfect. We’ve all done things that we’re not proud of but, unfortunately, that became public.” Despite the public scrutiny and the pain they both endured, Dobson and May’s relationship emerged stronger. Today, she maintains good relationships with May’s children from his previous marriage—James, Louisa, and Emily Ruth—and has found peace in the love that they share.
Their story is one of love that overcame significant odds, reminding us that true love doesn’t come without its trials, but when it’s real, it’s worth fighting for.
