Shona McGarty has revealed that she is leaving her role as Whitney Dean on EastEnders after more than 15 years.
The 31-year-old made her Walford debut in 2008 and has been central to some major storylines during that time, including being sexually abused, suffering a miscarriage and murdering her stalker.
Speaking to The Sun, McGarty said: "I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving EastEnders. I have loved my years in the show.
"I have been trusted with some incredible storylines and have made amazing friendships - and family - which will endure."
A source added: "It wasn't an easy decision for Shona to make and she is gutted to be walking away from her soap family, especially as she has grown up on set with most of them. She'll be sorely missed by the cast.
"But she feels like now is the right time in her life to step away and try something new.
"She is hoping the door will be left open for her character to return one day, but nothing is guaranteed and it is all in the hands of the scriptwriters.
"They could decide that another soap death would create an explosive exit storyline and get people talking, but that's always a risk actors have to take when deciding to leave.
"Shona is really looking forward to new projects and expanding her career horizon.
"It will be exciting to get her teeth into something new after so long playing one character.
"As well as acting, Shona loves singing and has a real musical talent, so that is one of the options available."
McGarty's final scenes are due to air in early 2024.
Neil Wilkes
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