Kellie Bright is set to depart EastEnders after 13 years in the role of Linda Carter, the BBC has confirmed. The actress, who first appeared as the Queen Vic landlady in 2013 alongside Danny Dyer's Mick Carter, has become one of the soap's most iconic figures, delivering powerful performances in storylines ranging from rape and alcoholism to killing Keanu Taylor to save Sharon Watts.
Linda's Journey and Recent Storylines
Linda's tenure has been marked by dramatic arcs, including her battle with alcoholism, the disappearance of Mick at sea, and her recent decision to leave the Queen Vic after a decade to run a B&B with her mother, Elaine Peacock. In recent months, the return of former flame Max Branning (Jake Wood) has left her conflicted, while a new romance with councillor Clive (Jason Durr) has developed.
Bright's exit was confirmed in a statement, where she said: 'EastEnders has been my home for thirteen years and 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.' She added that she made the decision over a year ago and agreed to stay for an exciting storyline planned by show bosses.
Executive Producer's Tribute
Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, praised Bright's contribution, saying: 'Kellie has been at the beating heart of EastEnders for the past 13 years, and her characterisation of the fiercely lovable, protective, and brilliant Linda Carter has made her a favourite amongst the viewers and cemented her as a classic EastEnders icon.' He confirmed that her exit storyline will be 'full of unmissable drama' and that the show has 'a long way to go before we say goodbye.'
Bright's departure marks the end of an era for the Carter family, who have been central to the show since their arrival. Her exit is expected to air in the coming months, with fans speculating about the circumstances that will lead Linda to leave Walford.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One, with episodes available to stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
