Stacey Slater Bows Out

EastEnders stunned viewers with four unexpected exits in a single episode, headlined by the departure of one of its most iconic stars. Lacey Turner, who has played Stacey Slater since 2004, has officially bowed out of Walford after 21 years on and off the Square.

Lacey confirmed earlier this year that she would be taking an “extended break,” telling The Sun: “It’s time for myself and Stacey to take a rest and who knows what Stacey will get up to in her time away? Knowing Stacey, it will never be boring.”

Show insiders have reassured fans this isn’t a permanent goodbye, with producers already hinting: “It’s not a question of if she will be back, but when.”

A Family Exit

In emotional scenes, Stacey clashed with her ex Max Branning before being persuaded by daughter Lily to seize a chance at a new life abroad. Lily urged her mum to live for herself, insisting she deserved happiness.

Stacey eventually made the heartbreaking choice to leave Albert Square behind — but she didn’t go alone. Her children, Arthur and Hope, joined her in heading to Brazil to reunite with her brother Sean. The departure came after a tender farewell with Lily, though Stacey never got to say a final goodbye to mum Jean.

Max Branning Leaves Too

The episode also marked another shock exit: Max Branning. Despite his son Oscar pleading for him to stay, Max decided to leave Walford once again. His exit was filled with tension, narrowly missing a dramatic confrontation with Cindy Beale, who still blames him for the death of her son, Steven Beale.

Actor Jake Wood, however, is set to return later this year for a longer stint, promising explosive drama when Max and Cindy finally face off.

A Mass Departure Shakes the Square

In one night, EastEnders waved goodbye to Stacey, Arthur, Hope, and Max — four characters gone from the Square, leaving behind a wave of heartbreak and unanswered questions.

For now, fans will have to adjust to life in Walford without Stacey Slater at its heart. But with bosses confirming Lacey Turner will be back, the only question is when — and what chaos Stacey will bring with her when she returns.