EastEnders fans have been left 'gutted' as actress Karen Henthorn, who played Julie Bates, bid farewell to the BBC soap after nearly 30 years. Her final episode aired on Thursday, marking the end of her time on the show, which began with her debut in September 1997.
Henthorn returned to the soap in July last year as part of Nigel's dementia storyline. In her final scenes, Julie left Walford for India after reading Nigel's letter, which revealed he had left her his pension, enabling her to take the trip of a lifetime.
Following her departure, a farewell video was posted on EastEnders' official social media pages. In the video, Henthorn said: 'It's my last day and I've had the best time. The best 10 and a half months.' She thanked the cast, crew, and fans for their support, adding: 'Thanks for your love, your support and your commitment and dedication to the programme.'
Executive Producer Ben Wadey praised her performance, saying: 'Your constant waterworks, your endless tears, but your performance has really been amazing.' Co-star Steve McFadden also presented her with flowers as the crew applauded.
Fans took to social media to express their sadness. One wrote: 'Great actress and amazing portrayal of such an awful disease.' Another commented: 'So gutted she's left. Her performance has been absolutely phenomenal throughout Nigel's dementia storyline.'
