Stacey’s Sudden Departure

EastEnders fans were left stunned when Stacey Slater made the emotional decision to leave Walford in Thursday’s (October 2) episode. Torn between staying with her family or starting fresh, Stacey chose to move to Brazil to live with her brother Sean Slater.

The turning point came after she witnessed Max Branning kissing her cousin Zoe — reopening old wounds and pushing her to finally walk away. The episode ended with Stacey leaving Albert Square in a taxi with her children Hope and Arthur, leaving behind mum Jean, eldest daughter Lily, and granddaughter Charli.

Why Fans Suspect It’s Temporary

Many viewers immediately noted that Stacey’s exit did not feature Julia’s Theme, the signature closing music used when a character departs permanently. This sparked speculation that Lacey Turner’s time away from the soap will be short-lived.

Lacey Turner Breaks Her Silence

Shortly after the episode aired, EastEnders shared behind-the-scenes footage of Lacey Turner completing her final scenes. Overcome with emotion as her co-stars applauded, Lacey reassured fans that her absence wouldn’t be permanent.

“I’ll keep it short because I hate these things… I will be back in a minute,” she said through tears. “Thank you, thank you everyone. I am coming back, I won’t be long. I can’t do speeches but thank you. I love you all very much and it’s a special place to work.”

Fans React With Love and Support

The news delighted viewers, who flooded social media with tributes to both Stacey and Lacey.

• “Lacey has turned Stacey Slater into as big an icon as Dot Cotton or Pat Butcher. I hope she returns soon.” (@Debbie8t5)

• “I just want to fast forward to her return though.” (@awittywizard)

• “I’m already missing her… EastEnders won’t be the same without her!!” (@WhovianLife)

• “Thank you Lacey Turner for bringing Stacey Slater to life once again since her return from prison. The awards speak for themselves.” (@RyanSoapKing25)

A Well-Earned Break

Away from Albert Square, Lacey is focused on family life with husband Matt Kay and their three children — Dusty, Gipsy, and Trilby. After giving birth to Gipsy in January, she returned just in time for EastEnders’ 40th anniversary live episode earlier this year.

For now, Stacey Slater may be gone from Walford, but Lacey Turner’s promise ensures fans won’t have to wait long before she’s back where she belongs — at the heart of the Square.