Unexpected EastEnders exit as star leaves Walford less than a year after dramatic debut

| Deputy Soaps Editor Published August 6, 2026 9:45am Updated August 6, 2026 10:00am An unexpected departure (Picture: BBC) EastEnders spoilers follow for Thursday’s (August 6) episode, which can now be streamed on BBC iPlayer. The episode in question will air at 7:30pm. Mark Fowler Jr (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) made the ultimate sacrifice for Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), departing Walford after she asked him to do so. Lauren, as fans know, is falling hard for Mark, who she went into business with earlier this year in a bid to win a bet with dad Max (Jake Wood) and secure a stake in the car lot. After resisting the chemistry between them for months, Mark and Lauren shared a number of passionate kisses and contemplated taking things further. Lauren, however, ultimately resisted doing so, fearful of the impact an affair would have on Peter Beale (Thomas Law), who was already becoming suspicious about what she was up to. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. When Peter interrupted a tense moment between her and Mark earlier this week, Lauren covered her tracks by revealing the lesser sin, confirming she’s been selling dodgy motors with the former gangster. Mark made tracks after Lauren asked him to go (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) The revelation stunned Peter to his core and he subsequently asked Lauren to give him some space as he worked out if they had a future or not. Lauren, meanwhile, took it upon herself to meet with Mark, telling him that if he truly feels anything for her then he’ll leave the Square at once. Mark was conflicted on what to do for the best but, seeing firsthand the impact that Peter and Lauren’s falling out was having on Louie, he resolved to do as Lauren asked. In emotional scenes, Mark said goodbye to sister Vicki (Alice Haig) – who was devastated to hear he was leaving – as he got into a cab and left Walford. This isn’t the last we’ll see of Mark as he appears in the flashforward episode (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) If you’ve been watching EastEnders closely, however, you’ll know that this exit isn’t a permanent one, with Mark set to feature in the events that take place on New Year’s Day – as teased in the flashforward episode earlier this year – which means he will be back. The question is: are his feelings for Lauren pivotal in why he stages a comeback? You’ll just have to keep watching to find out! 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 EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. 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: ‘Very vulnerable’ Mark to unveil new side as Lauren situation ‘intensifies’ in EastEnders Arrow MORE: Spiralling Lauren makes shocking demand of EastEnders’ Mark to prove himself Arrow MORE: All EastEnders spoilers for next week as sinister Sheila closes in for Gray The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.