All good things come to an end, but that doesn’t mean it’s not crushing for an actor to be told their role in a long-term role is coming to an end.
While many who are written out sell the fact that they are philosophical about it all – it’s part and parcel of an actor’s life etc – EastEnders actor Charlie Suff has been refreshingly honest about his disappointment over the axe dropping.
Once Kellie Bright had confirmed her pretty devastating decision to quit as Linda (I’ve still not accepted this), it did feel like a dark cloud would inevitably hang over Johnny.
After all, what would keep him on Albert Square without his whole family around? I doubt Callum Highway (Tony Clay) would be enough given how strained their apparent love story feels.
Perhaps they might leave together, although that’s pure speculation at this stage.
It’s a closely guarded secret how Johnny will leave but Charlie has promised an explosive climax which will kick off around autumn.
Which, according to the browning tree I can see out of my window, is pretty soon.
‘There’s a lot in store for the guys. It’s very dramatic,’ the actor told Radio Times. ‘It’s all part of the big autumn drama, and yeah, there’s lots in store for the guys.’
We’d expect nothing less but, while Charlie insists it is an honour to bow out with the Carters, there’s no denying that he would have preferred to have a little longer with the cast of the BBC One soap.
‘It’s gutting,’ he candidly admitted. ‘I absolutely love being a part of the show. I love everyone in it. I love the crew. I love the team. It’s been an amazing thing to be part of.’
Kellie’s own sentiments are similar. Addressing fans, she recently said in a video: ‘I just wanted to do a little thank you message to everyone that sent some love to Linda’s way when you heard about the announcement of me leaving.
‘It really means so much and I just wanted to acknowledge it and say thank you for your lovely comments and messages.’
Signing off with a fitting nod to her much-loved character, Kellie added: ‘Linda hearts you back. Flamingos forever.’
Producer Ben Wadey added: ‘I am quite close to Kellie. She is such a phenomenal actor. Linda Carter is one of the all time great EastEnders characters.
‘So losing her is such a big moment to the show and we wanted to make sure we see Linda at her best in her final few months.’
It isn’t all bad news, though. There is a bit of a family reunion to come before they all bow out, leaving a Carter shaped hole in the show.
Ben confirmed: ‘We will be welcoming Lee and Nancy back for a period in a story where I guarantee your jaws will drop when you see it.’
Linda, who is an integral part of Max Branning’s (Jake Wood) new year storyline, won’t be leaving until 2027.
It remains to be seen if Johnny will leave with her, or if he will already be gone.
And, indeed, if he is allowed to even leave alive.
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