EastEnders: Lacey Turner Confirms Stacey’s Exit Is “What She Needs”
Stacey Slater’s time in Walford may be coming to an emotional end, as actress Lacey Turner has opened up about her character’s looming departure from EastEnders. After two decades of high-drama storylines, the soap legend is preparing for a fresh start far from Albert Square—and it could be one of her most dramatic exits yet.
Stacey’s Brazil Dilemma
Upcoming episodes see Stacey debating whether to move to Brazil to live with her brother Sean. The plan would mean leaving her daughter Lily and granddaughter Charli behind, something that almost makes her change her mind.
Jean and cousin Zoe are strongly against the move, and Lily makes it clear she wants to stay in Walford. But when Stacey discovers Max Branning has returned—and is secretly involved with Zoe—she feels more betrayed than ever. That betrayal, paired with the constant pain of losing Martin Fowler, pushes her closer to saying goodbye.
Lacey Turner on Stacey’s Break
Speaking to the BBC, Turner revealed why Brazil might be the right choice for Stacey:
“It’s the break that Stacey needs. She’s been through so much and losing Martin has been so hard for her. Walking past his stall every day is too much. Brazil seems far, but I guess that’s what she needs.”
She admitted Lily and Charli not joining her nearly stops Stacey from going, but Max and Zoe’s relationship confirms her decision: “She feels betrayed by Zoe, but she’s reminded this is typical Max behaviour—it’s what he always does.”
Max Branning’s Shocking Return
The return of Max Branning sets off fireworks in true Walford fashion. Stacey is floored to see him again, knowing his presence always spells chaos. Turner teased their electric on-screen chemistry:
“Max has always had this hold over Stacey that she has no control over. They’re always drawn together. Whenever they’re on screen, there’s something sizzling underneath.”
Turner added that working with Jake Wood again felt effortless, describing it as “amazing that you can just pick up where you left off.”
A Slater Legacy
Stacey’s exit also coincides with the Slaters marking 25 years in EastEnders. Turner reflected on joining the soap’s most iconic family back in 2004:
“The Slaters were always my favourite family growing up, and when I got the job, I couldn’t believe I was going to be one! Now, they are like my real family, and I love them all to bits.”
What’s Next?
Stacey has always put others before herself, often at her own expense. But now, she may finally choose her own path—away from Walford, away from heartbreak, and toward a new life in Brazil.
Whether her exit is temporary or permanent remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Stacey Slater’s departure will leave a hole in Albert Square that no one can easily fill.