EastEnders: Leaving, Returning and New Arrivals

 

We've seen many characters leave the soap over the last year, especially since EastEnders returned to our screens mid 2020. Here's the full list of characters coming and going over the next few months.

Stacey Slater played by Lacey Turner - Leaving

BBC

Lacey returned to EastEnders during the pandemic last year, following her maternity leave after having her daughter, Dusty,

In September 2020, the actor revealed the wonderful news that she and husband Matt were expecting their second child.

The current storyline involving Ruby Allen's miscarriage will likely see Stacey leave Walford until Lacey is ready to return.

Sonia Fowler played by Natalie Cassidy - Returning

BBC

Sonia Jackson left Walford after her mental health suffered as she continued to work at the hospital during the pandemic. The character revealed that she was going to spend some time with her daughter, Bex, in India.

EastEnders confirmed Sonia will return in the coming weeks.

Terry Cant played by Brian Conley - Arrival

BBC

Thankfully Natalie Cassidy who plays Sonia, will have a juicy storyline to sink her teeth into as EastEnders announced Brian Conley had been cast to play Sonia's biological father, Terry Cant.

Speaking about being cast in the soap, Brian said: "As you can imagine being a Londoner and now being part of EastEnders is such an incredible moment for me. I know for sure my dad's looking down from above and saying 'Good on yer son!'

Kush Kazemi played by Davood Ghadami - Leaving

BBC

Davood revealed last year that he was leaving EastEnders when his contract comes to an end. After six years on the soap, Davood filmed his final scenes last week.

Speaking at the time of announcing Kush's exit, Head of Continuing Drama at the BBC, Kate Oates said: "Davood is a fantastic actor and a hugely popular company member, so we will miss him hugely."

Mo Harris played by Laila Morse - Leaving

BBC

Planning to move to Spain, Laila made the decision to leave the role of Mo Harris after more than 20 years.

Laila also wanted to make sure fans knew it was not the end of Big Mo, as EastEnders were keen to keep the door open for her character to return for short stints in the future.

Nancy Carter played by Maddy Hill - Returning

BBC

EastEnders recently announced the exciting news that Maddy Hill is reprising her role as Nancy Carter, five years after leaving the soap. 

Nancy left Walford to travel the world with her husband, Tamwar. It's currently unknown what brings Nancy back to the Square, but it's unlikely to be great news as Tamwar will not be returning with her.

Ian Beale played by Adam Woodyatt - Returning

BBC

Adam Woodyatt is currently taking an extending break from the role he has played for 36 years. Ian's whereabouts is currently unknown, but he is in contact with his solicitor.

Adam is tipped to return towards the end of year, maybe in the run up to Christmas.

Zack Hudson played by James Farrar - Arrival

BBC

Zack Hudson will arrive on our screens in upcoming episodes, played by ex-Hollyoaks actor James Farrar.

Zack first appears at Gavin Sullivan's memorial service next week, which is also attended by Sharon Watts and Kathy Beale. What could the connection be?

Speaking about his character Zack, James revealed: "Zack certainly has a very complicated past and there is a real depth to him that I can't wait to explore."

Many news outlets have also revealed that Maisie Smith, who plays Tiffany Baker, will be leaving her role in October when her contact comes to an end. The young actor is said to be wanting to pursue a career in Hollywood. More details to follow.

EastEnders airs weeknights on BBC One.