EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw is to leave the soap after its 40th anniversary next year, it has been confirmed.
Appointed in January 2022, Clenshaw has overseen a widely-regarded golden era of the show, with storylines including Lola's heartbreaking death, 'The Six' flashforward storyline and the introduction of the Knight family.
He has also been instrumental in bringing back numerous former characters, most notably Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), with others such as David Wicks (Michael French), Chrissie Watts (Tracy-Ann Oberman) and Jane Beale (Laurie Brett) also coming back in the build-up to next February's milestone 40th birthday.
Clenshaw will be replaced in the role by Ben Wadey, a former story editor on EastEnders and more recently a commissioning executive at Channel 4 overseeing shows such as Hollyoaks.
In a statement, Clenshaw said: "As a proud EastEnders fan, it has been the honour of my life to be its custodian. It has meant everything to me, and I've given Walford my all.
"I made the tough decision that I would step down after the 40th anniversary many months ago – to keep EastEnders creatively refreshed as it's a show that needs to constantly evolve. After what will be three years at the helm and leading the team through its milestone celebrations, the time feels right that I hand over the keys to The Queen Vic.
"Elstree holds a special place in my heart, and I know when the day comes, it'll be hard to tear myself away. My special thanks go to the sensational EastEnders cast and crew that I'm incredibly proud to have led over the past few years, and who have provided me with unwavering support. Their commitment, passion and talent has inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them and proud of everything that we've achieved together.
"EastEnders has been the highlight of my career and I have loved every minute of it, but it's time for change, and for a new chapter, and I'm delighted to be staying within BBC Studios Drama Productions. Although my departure from EastEnders is not for some time yet, whilst I'm still here, I look forward to putting all our efforts into our momentous anniversary.
"I'm pleased to be passing the show on to Ben Wadey. I'm confident that, under him, EastEnders will continue to thrive, and I wish him the very best as it is without doubt the best job in telly and I hope he enjoys the ride just as much as I have. Thank you, EastEnders – for everything."
© BBC
Wadey said: "I'm thrilled to be returning to EastEnders at such an exciting time for the show. Having grown up watching and loving EastEnders, it sparked my passion for television, and I feel I've known the residents of Walford my entire life – so to lead this iconic BBC soap into its next chapter is a true privilege.
"I can't wait to collaborate with the exceptional team at EastEnders and build on Chris Clenshaw's brilliant work to deliver unmissable stories to fans - both those who have been watching for years and those just discovering Albert Square."
Clenshaw will leave the soap at the end of February, meaning that his storylines will continue to appear on air until early summer 2025.
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