The popular and long running EastEnders is heading towards a rather “hot” Christmas with many storylines literally on fire! No pun-intended to the upcoming Walford fire! Although that can’t disregarded! Especially, since some spoilers tease that the said fire will not just engulf a part of Walford, but also a mystery character! However, who that charterer could be, is anyone’s guess at the moment. But we do know that several key characters are on their way out. While, some former ones are returning to fill up the empty space on the canvas! Below is a quick round-up of who is leaving and who is returning to the BBC One soap! Dive in to see if any of your favs are on their way back!
The Departures: Karen Taylor, Rocky Cotton and Whitney Dean
Lorraine Stanley as Karen Taylor has been a Walford staple for years. In fact, she became an instant hit with fans when she first entered EastEnders. Several media reports state that she will exit the soap sometime towards the end of 2023. A source close to the production had told the media that it was a tough call write Karen off. However, the makers had to make the call in order to freshen up the story and cast of the long-running show. Speculations are rife that Karen will perish in the fire that is set to breakout in Kathy’s cafe. Although, interestingly, Lorraine Stanley stated in a chat that she would never watch Eastenders again if they killed Karen.
Brian Conley’s exit news as Rocky Cotton came shrouded in controversy. Many early reports stated that Brian is giving the makers a hard time by pulling out if the soap abruptly. Furthermore, the reports stated that the makers now feel forced to change many storylines because of the unexpected exit. However, later Brian explained that the reports were bogus. And that his departure from the show was planned and nit sudden. A source close to the production backed up Brian’s claims and stated that makers were happy for Brian.
Shona McGarty is quitting Eastenders after a 15 year run as Whitney Dean. She was just a teenager when she first started on the show and has basically grown up on it. However, the fine actress stated that she feels it’s time for her to spread her wings and fly out if Walford. There is no news on what her exit story line will be. But fans are hoping that she gets a happy ending. Especially, since her life on Eastenders has been rather nightmarish.
These Past Characters Are Returning To EastEnders: Sam Mitchell, Lauren Branning
Earlier in 2023, actress Kim Medcalf took a temporary break from EastEnders as Sam Mitchell. She flew off to Spain to accept a lucrative job offer at a hotel. All in hopes of raising enough money to support Lily and Ricky with their baby. The last we saw of her was when she bid her son an emotional goodbye and drove into the sunset. However, fans can rejoice as she is returning to Walford by the end of 2023. Kim has already begun filming for her return scenes, so it is only a matter of time before we see her reuniting with her family!
We recently reported that the much loved Jacquelin Jossa is returning to EastEnders as Lauren Branning. It has been quite a while since we saw her as part of a full-fledged storyline. Although she did make fleeting appearances for Dott Cotton’s funeral, and earlier when Cindy Beale returned. However, the actress has divulged that this time she is returning to stay, and her comeback will be as permanent as it can be for anyone in soaps. Chris Clenshaw teased in a media chat that Lauren’s return will be quite dramatic as she has unfinished business with many people in town!
Which of the above returns are you most excited about? Also, which character would you hate to see leave? Tell us in the comments. Meanwhile, stay tuned to TV Season & Spoilers for more EastEnders update and news!