‘Gutted’ Jamie Borthwick Seen for First Time Since EastEnders Axe on Chaotic Night Out
Breakdown in Mayfair Marks Tough Week for the Axed Star
EastEnders favourite Jamie Borthwick has been seen for the first time since being sensationally axed from the BBC One soap — but his night out ended in chaos after his car broke down in the middle of London.
The 31-year-old actor, best known for his long-running role as Jay Brown, was spotted dining with girlfriend Georgina Shave in Mayfair before the evening took a dramatic turn. His Mercedes reportedly came to a halt on a busy street and had to be towed away.
A bystander told The Sun, “Jamie was gutted. Georgina cheered him up with a smooch.” Despite the mechanical mishap, the couple were seen laughing together as Jamie left a handwritten note on his windscreen apologising to parking wardens. In a true London twist, Jamie caught a lift home in the tow truck — leaving Georgina to take the bus.
First Public Sighting Since Shock EastEnders Exit
This marks Jamie’s first public appearance since his sudden departure from EastEnders, ending an incredible 19-year run on the BBC soap.
Borthwick, who joined the show as troubled teen Jay Brown in 2006, became one of the series’ most recognisable faces. His emotional storylines — including the tragic death of his on-screen wife, Lola Pearce (played by Danielle Harold) — made him a fan favourite.
However, his time on the show came to an abrupt end following controversy earlier this year. In June, Jamie was reportedly suspended after using an offensive term to describe Blackpool residents while filming Strictly Come Dancing in the seaside town.
BBC Confirms Exit After Suspension
Although initial reports suggested Jamie might return to filming after the suspension, The Mirror later revealed that producers had decided to write the character out permanently.
A BBC Studios spokesperson confirmed:
“We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders. We do not comment on individual matters.”
Fans only discovered Jay’s quiet exit through a passing line in a September episode, when Lauren Branning mentioned that “Jay, his grandad’s got sick, so he’s had to go and see him.”
It was a subdued farewell for a character who had been central to some of the Square’s most powerful storylines for nearly two decades.
Jamie’s Public Apology After the Controversy
Following his suspension, Jamie issued a heartfelt apology for his remarks:
“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.”
The BBC also released a statement condemning the language, calling it “entirely unacceptable and in no way reflective of the values or standards we hold and expect.”
Despite the fallout, sources close to the actor say he has been “focused on moving forward” and grateful for Georgina’s continued support during what has been a turbulent time.
What’s Next for Jamie Borthwick?
With his long EastEnders chapter now closed, speculation is already building about Jamie’s next move. While the BBC has ruled out a return to Walford, industry insiders believe he could make the jump to theatre or reality television, where his loyal fan base would undoubtedly follow.
For now, though, the actor appears to be keeping a low profile — aside from the unexpected Mayfair breakdown that reminded everyone he’s still navigating life off-screen.
As one onlooker put it:
“You could see he was gutted, but Georgina was amazing with him. She kept him smiling. It looked like she’s his rock right now.”
After nearly twenty years as Jay Brown, Jamie Borthwick’s journey has taken an unexpected detour — but in true East End spirit, it looks like he’s already finding his way back on track.