Inside Gossip – soap news
It’s all change on Albert Square…
There’s a huge cast shake-up under way at Eastenders – with the news that three big names are due to leave the soap this spring.
In what is perhaps a controversial exit, actress Jenna Russell is waving goodbye to Michelle Fowler, after she was brought in to play the iconic role that was originally made famous by Susan Tully.
The decision to recast Michelle in 2016 received a mixed reaction from fans, with stories such as her illicit affair with 17-year-old student Preston Cooper – and bother with stalker Tom Bailey – among the most memorable. Michelle has had very little screen time of late, but Walford bosses and Jenna insist it was a mutual decision to write her out.
“Just for clarity, I wasn’t ‘axed’ – just fancied doing something else,” the star posted on social media, before going on to confirm that “nothing else” has brought about her exit, as she signed off with the hashtag #actorslife.
Meanwhile, Square chiefs have announced that Richard Blackwood will be bidding farewell, after three years of playing Kim’s husband Vincent.
“I have loved every minute of my time at Eastenders and, although I will be sad to say goodbye, it feels like the right time to leave,” says the actor. “I have been truly blessed with some great storylines since the moment I joined, but when I was presented with my last story, I knew it was time for Vincent to depart Walford.”
The former gangster turned police informant made his
East End debut during the show’s ‘Live Week’ to mark its 30th birthday in 2015. His most recent storylines resulted in trouble with wife Kim and him losing his bar The Albert to evil Aidan Maguire – so with his business gone and marriage on the rocks, will Vincent decide there is simply nothing left for him in
Walford? Or is a much more dramatic departure on the cards?
Finally, pop star Lee Ryan is signing off as bar manager Harry ‘Woody’ Woodward. Whitney’s ex-fiancé will be back on screen next week – sparking an awkward reunion for the pair – but is destined to depart again once Lee reaches the end of his contract. Sorry to see you all go, guys!