Shona Bernadette McGarty was born 14th October, 1991 in Borehamwood. She is an English actress who plays Whitney Dean in EastEnders. McGarty attended St.Teresa's Primary RC School in Borehamwood. She is currently in a relationship with fellow cast member Matt Lapinskas. In March 2012, McGarty and Lapinskas were asked to leave an Asda supermarket after they smeared McGarty "suggestively" with yoghurt whilst shopping. She attended Loreto College, St Albans.