EastEnders' Kellie Bright to leave after 13 years
Actress Kellie Bright is set to depart the long-running BBC soap opera EastEnders after 13 years of playing the character Linda Carter. The BBC has promised significant storylines leading up to her exit, marking the end of a major era for the show.
Why it matters
The departure of a long-standing lead character in a major cultural institution like EastEnders often impacts viewership and narrative direction.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Victoria Bourne BBC News BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron The Carters joined EastEnders in 2013 EastEnders star Kellie Bright is to leave the soap after playing one of its key characters, Linda Carter, for 13 years.
She arrived in Albert Square with on-screen husband Mick, portrayed by Danny Dyer, when they became the new owners of the Queen Vic pub.
Carter's matriarch character has been central to major storylines including plots about murder, sexual assault and alcoholism.
Bright said she made the "tough decision" to leave more than a year ago but "happily" agreed to stay on to be part of an "exciting storyline".
The BBC has promised "unmissable drama" before her on-screen exit, which is said to be a "while away" yet.
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