In a surprising shake-up for the long-running BBC serial, actor Roland Manookin has been dropped from EastEnders after a mere 18 months on the show.
A Sudden Exit for the Mitchell Patriarch
Manookin joined the cast of the Albert Square drama in mid-2024, stepping into the iconic Walford square as Teddy Mitchell. He arrived with his on-screen sons, played by actors Elijah Holloway and Lewis Bridgeman, with the mission of leading a fresh branch of the formidable Mitchell family dynasty.
However, his tenure has been cut short. The decision to write out his character comes after Ben Wadey took over as the show's executive producer earlier this year. A source close to the production revealed that hopes were initially high for the new Mitchell clan, but the storyline potential for Teddy ultimately faded.
From Film to Soap: A 'Big Risk' That Didn't Pay Off
The insider suggested that the move represented a significant career shift for Manookin, who was previously known for roles in gritty British films like The Football Factory and Rise of the Footsoldier. "Roland took a big risk agreeing to join EastEnders after his long and successful career in film," the source told The Sun.
They added, "The material just wasn’t there for Teddy. Bosses made the decision that the character had run his course and that was that. It seems such a waste."
A spokesperson for the BBC soap officially confirmed the actor's departure, stating: "We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future."
Part of a Wider Cast Clear-Out
Manookin's exit is not an isolated incident. He joins a list of actors recently written out of the show, including Clair Norris, Matthew James Morrison, and Micah Balfour.
Furthermore, popular stars Bobby Brazier and Molly Rainford also departed the programme following mutual agreements with producers. Actress Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater, is currently on an extended break from the series.
The show has also faced some viewer criticism recently, particularly regarding the much-anticipated return of Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater after two decades, with some fans labelling the accompanying storyline a disappointment.
Looking Ahead: A Flash-Forward to 2027
As one chapter closes, another begins. EastEnders is plotting a major narrative twist with an episode scheduled for New Year's Day 2026 that will flash forward an entire year.
This special episode will offer a glimpse into New Year's Day 2027, teasing major plots for the coming year. It will also mark the highly anticipated return of Jake Wood as Max Branning, who is set to take centre stage in the unfolding drama.
Executive Producer Ben Wadey teased the ambitious plans, saying: "For the first time in the show’s history, we’re going to be offering our viewers an entire flashforward episode... 2026 is going to be full of drama in Walford, especially for the Brannings."
