Mimi Keene: 5 Shocking Transformations Of The 'Ruby Matthews' Actor, Including Her New Agatha Christie Role

The actress behind the iconic and complex character of Ruby Matthews has rapidly become one of Britain's most compelling young stars, transitioning seamlessly from a soap opera staple to a global Netflix sensation. As of December 2025, Mimi Keene is not just the face of Moordale’s 'Queen B' but a versatile performer whose career is entering a thrilling new phase, marked by a major role in a highly anticipated BBC adaptation of an Agatha Christie classic. This deep dive explores her full career, the phenomenon of her *Sex Education* role, and the fresh projects that are cementing her status as a leading actress.

Mimi Keene, who brought the sharp wit and unexpected vulnerability to Ruby Matthews, has crafted a fascinating career defined by dramatic transformations and a knack for stealing the show. From her early days on the stage to her recent casting in a high-profile period mystery, her journey is a masterclass in evolving an on-screen persona. Her latest role promises a complete departure from the high school halls of *Sex Education*, proving her range extends far beyond the teen comedy-drama genre that made her a household name.

Mimi Keene: Biography, Key Roles, and Career Timeline

Mimi Keene, the talented British actress, has built an impressive resume that spans theatre, long-running television dramas, and global streaming hits. Her professional biography showcases a dedication to her craft that began at a very young age.

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• Full Name: Mimi Roshan Saeed (Professionally known as Mimi Keene)
• Date of Birth: August 5, 1998
• Place of Birth: Hertfordshire, England
• Nationality: British
• Education: Studied at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London.
• Early Career: Began her career as a child actress on stage, notably playing Janey in the play *Kin* at the Royal Court Theatre in 2010.
• Breakout TV Role (Pre-Netflix): Cindy Williams in the BBC soap opera *EastEnders* (2013–2015). This role earned her nominations for the British Soap Awards and the Inside Soap Awards.
• Voice Acting: Provided voice work for the video game *Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate* and *Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2*.
• Film Roles: Appeared as a younger version of Edith Tolkien in the biographical film *Tolkien* (2019) and as Nathalie in *After Everything* (2023).
• Major Global Role: Ruby Matthews in the Netflix series *Sex Education* (2019–2023).

The Phenomenon of Ruby Matthews: From 'Queen B' to Fan Favorite

The character of Ruby Matthews, the self-proclaimed 'Queen B' of Moordale Secondary School, was initially a supporting antagonist, a member of the popular clique known as 'The Untouchables.' However, Mimi Keene’s nuanced performance transformed Ruby into one of the show’s most beloved and complex figures, particularly during the third and fourth seasons.

The 'Rotis' Relationship and Character Arc

Ruby’s major shift began with her unexpected romantic entanglement with the series' protagonist, Otis Milburn (played by Asa Butterfield). This relationship, affectionately dubbed "Rotis" by fans, was a masterstroke of character development. It stripped away Ruby’s superficial facade, revealing a surprising vulnerability and a difficult home life where she cared for her father, who had multiple sclerosis.

Keene’s portrayal of Ruby's guarded exterior slowly crumbling as she allowed Otis into her world resonated deeply with viewers. The arc explored themes of social class, self-worth, and the pressure of maintaining a perfect image. While the relationship ultimately ended, many fans felt Ruby’s character development was one of the strongest in the entire series, arguing she had the best character arc alongside Adam Groff. Her journey from a one-dimensional mean girl to a multi-layered woman capable of genuine emotional connection is a testament to Keene's acting prowess.

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The Season 4 Controversy

Despite her popularity, Ruby Matthews' role in the final season of *Sex Education* was a point of contention among the fanbase. While she remained a significant presence at the new Cavendish College, some viewers felt her storyline and relationship with Otis were not given the satisfying conclusion they deserved, arguing that the season "ruined Ruby's character arc." Regardless of the show's narrative choices, Keene's performance remained a highlight, solidifying Ruby's status as a fan-favorite character who redefined the high school bully trope.

Beyond Moordale: Mimi Keene's Newest Projects and Rising Stardom

With *Sex Education* concluding its run, Mimi Keene has wasted no time in diversifying her portfolio, securing roles that highlight her versatility and promise a bright future in film and television.

Starring in Agatha Christie’s *Towards Zero*

The most significant and recent update in Mimi Keene’s career is her casting in the BBC and BritBox’s three-part adaptation of the classic Agatha Christie crime novel, *Towards Zero*. This high-profile period drama marks a major career pivot from the contemporary setting of *Sex Education*.

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In *Towards Zero*, Keene plays the character of Kay Elliott, the beautiful and vivacious second wife of the wealthy Nevile Strange. Kay is a central figure in the scandalous love triangle that forms the core of the mystery, often characterized in the national press as a "vamp and a gold digger." The role of Kay, who is intended to be captivating and manipulative, is a stark contrast to Ruby's eventual soft side, offering Keene a chance to explore a more dramatic and potentially villainous persona. The production, which is part of the BBC’s anthology of Christie adaptations, is highly anticipated and is expected to air in 2025, further elevating her international profile.

The *After* Franchise and Film Work

Keene has also made her mark in the young adult film world, appearing in the 2023 movie *After Everything*, the fifth installment of the popular *After* film series. Playing the role of Nathalie, this project allowed her to connect with another massive global fanbase, demonstrating her appeal across different youth-focused franchises. Her earlier film credit as a younger Edith Tolkien in *Tolkien* also shows an early foray into biographical drama, proving her comfort in various genres.

Fashion and Social Media Icon

Off-screen, Mimi Keene has cultivated a significant following on social media, particularly on Instagram (@mimikeene3), where she is known for her striking beauty and elegant, confident style. Her public appearances and red-carpet looks have established her as a rising fashion icon, with her presence often generating buzz across social media platforms. This strong personal brand complements her acting career, ensuring she remains a relevant and influential figure in the entertainment industry.

Mimi Keene’s trajectory is a perfect example of a young actor leveraging a career-defining role into a springboard for diverse and challenging projects. Her ability to embody characters as varied as the troubled teenager Cindy Williams, the complex 'Queen B' Ruby Matthews, and now the scandalous Kay Elliott in an Agatha Christie drama, confirms her status as a genuine talent to watch. As she moves further into her adult career, her commitment to challenging roles and her undeniable screen presence suggest that her time as a global star has only just begun.