Full Breakdown
Kellie Bright to Leave *EastEnders* After 13 Years as Linda Carter
8/9/2026, 12:18:48 PM
Linda Carter’s Exit After 13 Years
Kellie Bright announced that she will depart the BBC soap *EastEnders* after portraying Linda Carter for 13 years. The actress said she made the “tough decision” to leave more than a year ago but agreed to stay on for an “exciting storyline” before exiting. The BBC has confirmed that Bright’s final appearance is scheduled for January 1, 2027.
Background & Notable Storylines
Bright first joined *EastEnders* when Linda and her on-screen husband Mick (Danny Dyer) became the new owners of the Queen Vic. Over the years, Linda has been central to several high-profile plots:
- 2014 – Linda was raped by her brother-in-law Dean Wicks, an episode watched by more than 7 million viewers.
- 2022 – Mick vanished at sea while trying to rescue Janine Butcher, prompting a grieving-single-mother arc.
- 2023 Christmas Day – Linda stabbed Keanu Taylor to protect friend Sharon Watts.
- Recent months – Linda opened a B&B, pursued several romances, and appeared in a flash-forward episode that aired earlier this year, leading some fans to speculate her exit could occur before the 2027 date.
Official Statements & Responses
Executive producer Ben Wadey described Bright as “the beating heart of *EastEnders*” and called her a “classic *EastEnders* icon.” The BBC has promised “unmissable drama” leading up to her departure. The Mirror reported that a source close to the production said the “door is being left open” for Linda to return, suggesting the character is unlikely to be killed off.
Verbatim Quote
“I will miss my friends and colleagues hugely, but I am looking forward to my next chapter and spending more time with my wonderful boys,” — Kellie Bright
*“I will miss my friends and colleagues hugely, but I am looking forward to my next chapter and spending more time with my wonderful boys,” — Kellie Bright*
