EastEnders has been on air since 1985 on BBC One. Considering the massive number of years it has under its belt. It is understandable that over the years, it has accumulated a large pool of characters playing out various storylines. Some of these characters have been part of the soap for so long, that the actor portraying them become synonyms with them. Thus, it becomes extra hard for the viewers to say goodbye when the time comes to watch these characters fall off the canvas. But it seems like they will have to face the burn two times over, as two major characters are about to exit the canvas!
Actress Shona McGarty has shockingly quit EastEnders. The Walford Icon had been portraying the character of Whitney Dean for over 15 years now. She started at the young age of 16, and is now exiting the soap at 31. Speaking to the media, Shona admitted that it is a difficult decision. However, she expressed that she is ready to “spread” her “wings.” The talented actress told The Sun that she has loved her years on the soap. However, she is now ready to move on.
Furthermore, Shona pointed out that she has some really fond memories of the BBC One soap. She shared that over the years, EastEnders trusted her with many important storylines. Moreover, she gushed that she has made some incredible relationships during her time which she is certain will “endure.” Shona is slated to appear as Whitney for the last time, early in 2024. Although her exit storyline is still under wraps, the word is that the makers have something “special” in mind.
An EastEnders “Staple” Reaches The End
Apart from Shona McGarty, another very notable character is about to fall off the EastEnders grid. It is Karen Taylor. Actress Lorraine Stanley has been playing the character for the past seven years on the BBC One soap. However, it seems that she may have reached the end of the road on the streets of Walford. A source told The Sun that it is always a tough decision to let a character go from the soap, but sometimes it is essential for the story. And it seems this time Lorraine, as Karen will be facing the axe.
“Lorraine had a great run on the soap and was a real scene stealer,” the source stated. Her comic timing has certainly made a mark with the EastEnders viewers. She has been a staple to Walford ever since she arrived in the town. Although, just like Whitney, her exit storyline is under wraps. However, the source assures that it is going to be very “dramatic.” So stay tuned to TV Season & Spoilers for more EastEnders updates on these exits.