EastEnders has abruptly revealed that five characters will be leaving the show, leaving fans devastated and begging for their favourites to stay. In tonight's episode, the soap said a final goodbye to Nigel Bates, but now viewers must prepare to say farewell to even more residents of Walford.
Julie Bates' Departure
Scenes airing on 20 May revealed that Nigel's wife Julie, played by Karen Henthorn, is struggling to remain in Walford. She had moved from Scotland to be near her husband as his health declined, but after his funeral, she told Phil Mitchell that she wants to remember Nigel happy and healthy, adding: "And the place I have those memories is back home."
Clare and Josh's Exit
Julie was supported by her son Josh Sanderson and stepdaughter Clare Bates. Clare had returned amid her father's battle with dementia, and both returned for the funeral. EastEnders has confirmed this is a flying visit, and they are only guest starring rather than returning permanently. As such, they are set to leave as well.
Sam and Grant Mitchell's Departures
Meanwhile, as teased in episode spoilers, the events of tonight's episode—in which the Mitchells come together to save Mark Fowler from gangster Russell Delaney—spark the exits of Sam and Grant Mitchell. In upcoming episodes, Grant appears set to return to Portugal, and Sam will suggest joining him, setting up her eventual exit. Their returns were always listed as temporary, so their departures are less shocking to fans than Julie's.
Fan Reactions
Julie's imminent departure has left some fans devastated. One launched a "campaign" for her to return, saying: "Campaign to bring back Julie Bates NOW." Another fan responded: "The square wouldn't be the same without ar Julie." A third added: "The fact we're losing Julie and Sam at the same time. This is awful."
A fourth fan commented: "Julie and Phil were fantastic as ever. Guessing by the sounds of their chat outside during the wake, Julie might be leaving soon. It probably makes sense, but I'd love to see her stick around longer, Karen Henthorn's been amazing." Another begged: "I'm not emotionally ready to say goodbye to Julie tomorrow. Karen Henthorn, PLEASE DON'T GO!!!!!!!!!"
A different fan hoped that Julie's exit would be soundtracked by Julia's Theme—a piece of music often reserved for important character departures—saying: "It'll be the send off she deserves." Julia's Theme was first used in the BBC soap's first year, 1985, when Ian Beale cried in front of his grandmother Lou. It has been used 76 times, including for Nana Moon's death and Cindy Beale's flight to Italy. The most recent use was when Nigel passed away following his battle with dementia.
