EastEnders actress Kellie Bright breaks silence on quitting BBC soap after 13 years – as show plunged into cast crisis

EASTENDERS star Kellie Bright has broken her silence on quitting the BBC soap – after 13 years playing Linda Carter. Last month, The Sun revealed the huge news of Kellie’s decision to bow out of Albert Square. Kellie Bright has broken her silence on quitting EastEnders Credit: kelliebrightofficial/Instagram Her character Linda Carter has been a mainstay since arriving in 2013 Credit: BBC Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a video message to her followers and EastEnders fans. Speaking in the clip, Kellie said: “Shall we talk about the elephant in the room? Or should I say, flamingo? Sign up for the Eastenders newsletter Thank you! “I just wanted to do a little thank you message to everyone that sent some love to Linda’s way when you heard about the announcement of me leaving. “It really means so much and I just wanted to acknowledge it and say thank you for your lovely comments and messages. Linda’s son Lee Carter – played by Danny Hatchard – is returning in the build-up to her exit Credit: BBC Eldest daughter Nancy – played by Maddy Hill – is also set to make a comeback Credit: bbc “Linda hearts you back. Flamingos forever.” One person commented: “You brought so much joy to our screens as Linda Carter. Will be missed.” Another added: “We love you Kellie thank you for all the amazing, incredible years of Linda Carter will definitely miss you! “Wanted to wish you all the luck for the future.” Most read in TV Kellie joined EastEnders in 2013, alongside Danny Dyer playing Linda’s husband Mick Credit: BBC While Danny left Walford in 2022, Kellie stayed on as a big part of the BBC soap Credit: BBC Former co-star Lacey Turner – who played Stacey Slater – penned: “Forever flamingoing.” As well as Kellie, four other regulars are set to leave Walford in the coming months. Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater, Aaron Thiara as Ravi Gulati, Charlie Suff as Johnny Carter and Pierre Counihan-Mouiller as Oscar Branning are all departing. Meanwhile, EastEnders revealed Danny Hatchard and Maddy Hill will return as Linda’s eldest children Lee and Nancy in the build-up to her exit. Kellie arrived in Albert Square as Linda with on-screen husband Danny Dyer in 2013 to take over the Queen Vic pub. Danny left three years ago, although Kellie was keen to continue Linda’s story. Comment now