Another major EastEnders exit confirmed and it really is the end of an era

| Deputy Soaps Editor Published August 18, 2026 5:19pm Updated August 18, 2026 5:24pm Much like Linda, Johnny will be leaving the Square (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) Just days after the news that mum Linda (Kellie Bright) will be departing Walford, EastEnders has confirmed that son Johnny (Charlie Suff) will follow in her footsteps. Johnny, who was reintroduced three years ago with actor Charlie in the role, has featured in numerous key storylines since – including helping mum Linda cover up her murder of Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters) amid the high-octane The Six story. He supported Linda through her subsequent relapse, liaised with the others involved in the murder cover-up and more recently enjoyed a relationship with Callum Highway (Tony Clay) all the while launching a law firm in the Square. But 13 years after the character’s original debut, he will say goodbye to Walford for the third time. What makes this time more significant, however, is that Johnny’s departure will marks the end of an era as, once he and Linda wave goodbye, there will be officially be no Carters left on the Square. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. An EastEnders spokesperson told Metro: ‘We can confirm Charlie Suff will be leaving EastEnders, and we wish him all the best for the future.’ According to The Sun, who first reported the news, Charlie understood that once co-star Kellie was leaving that he’d be going to. Charlie helped mum Linda through her relapse after she killed Keanu (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) Though Shirley (Linda Henry), who rocked up in 2006, was the first Carter to set foot in Walford, her family was famously expanded in 2013 with the introduction of Linda, husband Mick (Danny Dyer) and their children. The Carter clan became one of Albert Square’s most iconic date, with members of the celebrated family – who lived in the Queen Vic for a decade – often at the centre of key stories. Danny Dyer left in 2022 with Mick vanishing at sea – and devastated Shirley departed soon after. Linda will exit in upcoming scenes, with star Kellie having decided to step away after 13 years. Johnny recently dated Callum (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) Prior to Charlie taking over the role, Johnny enjoyed two previous stints, with actors Sam Strike and Ted Reilly each playing the part. Shortly after his debut, Johnny came out to dad Mick, which proved to be one of the most powerful and talked about moments in EastEnders history and set the stage for many more to come with the Carters at the helm of the programme. Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you It really is the end of an era! If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Arrow MORE: What happened to Mick Carter in EastEnders? Arrow MORE: Linda and Max New Year wedding ‘confirmed’ in EastEnders as their spark reignites Arrow MORE: Danny Dyer ‘confirms’ EastEnders return amid Linda exit with huge hints The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.