Kellie Bright leaving EastEnders after 13 years as Linda Carter
EastEnders star Kellie Bright has announced that she is leaving the BBC soap after 13 years playing the role of Linda Carter.
Kellie Bright is to leave EastEnders after 13 years in the role of Linda Carter.
The 50-year-old actress explained that she had made the "tough decision" to depart the BBC soap "over a year ago" but has agreed to stay on screen for the time being as she is involved in an "exciting storyline".
Kellie, who has three sons with her husband Paul Stocker, said: "I have absolutely loved being part of the show but I have decided that it is now the right time for me to say goodbye.
"I made the tough decision over a year ago, but agreed to extend my stay because of an exciting storyline. I will miss my friends and colleagues hugely but I am looking forward to my next chapter and spending more time with my wonderful boys."
Kellie's alter ego arrived on Albert Square in 2013 as she and on-screen husband Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) took over the soap's famous Queen Vic pub.
Linda has since been central to several major storylines, including being raped by her brother-in-law Dean Wicks (Matt Di Angelo), her long-running battle with alcoholism and being revealed as Keanu Taylor's (Danny Walters) killer in The Six plot during the 2023 Christmas episodes of the soap.
EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey has promised "unmissable drama" as part of Kellie's exit storyline.
He said: "Kellie's characterisation of the fiercely lovable, protective and brilliant Linda Carter has made her a favourite among viewers. Everyone at EastEnders will miss Kellie and Linda dearly.
"We've still got a way to go before we say goodbye but I can promise that Kellie's exit storyline will be full of unmissable drama."
Insiders have suggested that Linda is unlikely to be killed off as soap bosses hope Kellie may return at some point.
A source told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "Kellie feels it is time to see what is on the outside.
"But everyone will be hoping Linda will return one day. It's believed the door is being left open."
It is also claimed that it is "very unlikely" that Danny will return as Mick for the storyline, with the character presumed dead after being lost at sea on Christmas Day 2022.
The source said: "The perfect ending for fans would be for Mick to be alive and come to rescue her - but that's very unlikely."
