EastEnders’ Shona McGarty Teases Open Door for Whitney Dean Return
Shona McGarty Reflects on Leaving EastEnders
Former EastEnders star Shona McGarty has opened up about the possibility of returning to Albert Square. The 33-year-old actress, who played Whitney Dean for 16 years, described her current feeling as “very free” since leaving the BBC soap last year.
Shona joined EastEnders in 2008 at the age of 16, stepping into the role of Whitney, Bianca Jackson’s adopted daughter. Over the years, Whitney was involved in some of the soap’s most dramatic storylines, from surviving exploitation by Bianca’s fiancé Tony King to navigating a complex affair with Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer.
Whitney Dean’s Departure
Whitney’s exit storyline saw her relocating to Wakefield with her daughters, Britney and Dolly, to live with her brother Ryan. The departure followed a heartbreaking revelation about her husband Zack Hudson’s infidelity. Fans watched Whitney leave Walford on the bus, accompanied by the emotional Julia’s theme outro.
Reflecting on her exit, Shona told The Sun: “I feel very free. But obviously, I miss my old family at EastEnders. Sixteen years is a long time, so it really did feel like leaving home.”
Despite leaving, Shona does not regret her decision. “No, I don’t,” she explained. “My character had done so much. She really did have a hard life. I thought, ‘Well, I need a break.’ I wanted to explore other avenues. I felt like Whitney needed a break, too.”
Life After EastEnders
Since leaving the soap, Shona has made her West End debut, playing the iconic model Bettie Page in Queen of the Pin-Ups – The Musical. She is also pursuing a music career.
Watching EastEnders from the sidelines has reminded Shona of her connection to the show. She shared: “When I watched the live episode for the 40th anniversary, I cried, especially watching Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater. She was amazing. I felt like, ‘Oh, I wish I was part of that.’”
Shona fondly recalled performing in previous live episodes: “I remember doing it for the 30th anniversary and that feeling of teamwork. I was so proud, so I was gutted not to be there for that.”
The Door Is Open for a Return
Despite the time away, Shona hasn’t ruled out a return to Albert Square. “The door is open,” she admitted. “People are already asking me when I am going back. But I don’t think I’m ready yet. I’d like to go back when it’s time for Whitney to return.”
Recent months have seen other former stars return to the soap, including Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater and Jake Wood reprising Max Branning. Shona is enjoying watching EastEnders as a fan, noting: “I left on the bus, not under it.”
Fans are left hopeful that Whitney Dean might return, bringing back one of Walford’s most beloved characters. Whether it’s to resolve unfinished storylines or reunite with old favourites, Shona’s comments have sparked excitement for a potential comeback.
What Fans Can Expect
If Whitney does return, viewers can anticipate emotional reunions and dramatic twists. Her previous storylines dealt with resilience, heartbreak, and growth, making her a character capable of generating new drama on the Square. Shona’s open approach leaves room for writers to craft a meaningful reintroduction whenever the timing feels right.
With a mix of nostalgia, talent, and fresh energy from Shona’s recent stage and musical ventures, a Whitney return could offer both longtime fans and new viewers a memorable storyline.