| Ellen Zitek | |
|---|---|
| Casualty character | |
 Georgina Bouzova as Ellen Zitek | |
| First appearance | "Out With a Bang" 18 September 2004 |
| Last appearance | "Silent Night" 24 December 2006 |
| Portrayed by | Georgina Bouzova |
| In-universe information | |
| Occupation | Nurse |
| Spouse | Abs Denham (2004−2006) |
| Relatives | Nina Farr (step-sister) |
Ellen Zitek is a fictional character from the BBC medical drama Casualty, played by actress Georgina Bouzova. She first appeared in the series nineteen episode "Out With a Bang", broadcast on 18 September 2004. Bouzova was originally signed to appear in the show for four months. The character proved popular with viewers and her contract was renewed. Ellen is characterised as a charming and intelligent woman who has a manipulative side. She can be nasty and scheming, traits which initially worried Bouzova who presumed the public would dislike her. Ellen is originally from Ukraine and arrives in Holby City to work as a nurse. She was introduced as the step-sister of Nina Farr (Rebekah Gibbs).
The character's most notable storyline is the portrayal of cancer resulting from a molar pregnancy. The story was based on a real-life case and Bouzova researched the condition thoroughly. She also cut her waist-length hair short to accommodate her character's chemotherapy treatment. Other stories include marrying Abs Denham (James Redmond) for a visa and believing she is pregnant by Harry Harper (Simon MacCorkindale). In 2006, Bouzova decided to leave the show to pursue other projects. The actress was not allowed to discuss her exit storyline until after Ellen's departure had aired. Casualty producer Jane Dauncey wanted to surprise viewers. In the episode titled "Silent Night", broadcast 24 December 2006, Ellen is hit by a motor bike and killed. The character was popular and liked by viewers but polarised television critics' opinions. A Western Mail reporter branded Ellen a "man-eating blonde nurse". Jim Shelley from the Daily Mirror viewed the character as "intensely irritating" and "slightly psychotic".