EastEnders child star Harry Farr exits as Carter family departure confirmed
EastEnders child star exits as Carter family departs

Harry Farr, who has played Ollie Carter in EastEnders since 2017, has filmed his final scenes, bringing his time on the show to an end. His mum confirmed the news on Instagram, writing: 'And that's a wrap! Emotional ending after such a long time for him, but wow what an amazing experience (with some of the nicest people) he's had'.

Carter Family Departures

His departure follows Kellie Bright's announcement that she would be leaving her role as Linda Carter after 13 years. EastEnders boss Ben Wadey announced shortly after that her children Lee and Nancy would be returning for her exit, with Danny Hatchard and Maddy Hill reprising their roles. Linda's other son, Johnny Carter, is also being written out, with actor Charlie Suff being axed, bringing an official end to the entire Carter family.

Kellie Bright's Announcement

Announcing her decision to step away from the show, Kellie 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. I made the tough decision over a year ago, and after discussing this with Kate Oates and Ben Wadey, they asked me to stay on to be part of an exciting storyline they had planned, and I happily agreed to extend my stay. 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.'

After being showered with love, she took to Instagram to thank her fans for the displays of kindness, joking: 'Shall we talk about the elephant in the room? Or should I say, flamingo?' while pulling out a knitted flamingo. '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. Linda hearts you back. Flamingos forever.'

Cast Reactions

Speaking on his own exit, Charlie Suff told Radio Times: 'There's a lot in store for the guys. It's very dramatic, it's all part of the big autumn drama, and yeah, there's lots in store for the guys.' Admitting his sadness over his axing, he added: 'It's gutting, 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.'

Speaking of his joy at being able to reprise his role to send Kellie off properly, Danny Hatchard said: 'She's been such an important part of my journey, not only as an actor and in Lee's story, but also as a person, I really adore having her in my life. I'm so glad the Carter children have reunited for the wider farewell of such an iconic character, Linda and Kellie deserve that.'

Speaking to BANG showbiz at the 2026 Best Heroes Awards, Harriet Thorpe, who plays Linda's mum, Elaine Peacock, was asked whether Kellie's exit feels like a big loss, answering: 'Of course it is. And people who have been involved in identifying with all her journeys, of course it's going to be a loss with the family, but again, that's part of soap story, and throughout history we've been telling these stories.'