“Supremely Talented”: Sharon Marshall Pays Tribute to Jamie Borthwick After EastEnders Axe
Jamie Borthwick’s Sudden Departure Stuns Soap World
The EastEnders community has been shaken this week following the news that Jamie Borthwick, who has played Jay Brown for nearly two decades, will not be returning to the soap. The BBC confirmed the actor’s exit just months after his suspension, leaving fans heartbroken and colleagues speaking out in support.
Borthwick, 31, joined the show in 2006 as the troubled but kind-hearted Jay, winning awards and admiration for his powerful performances over the years. Now, after almost 20 years in Albert Square, his career at EastEnders has come to an abrupt end.
Sharon Marshall Leads the Tributes
Soap expert and scriptwriter Sharon Marshall, affectionately known as the “Queen of Soaps” on This Morning, paid an emotional tribute during her regular segment with Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard.
“He’s the most supremely talented actor and it was a complete pleasure to write for him,” Sharon said. “I look forward to seeing him back on screen.”
Viewers immediately picked up on her tone, with many suggesting she was far from happy about the BBC’s decision. “Sounds like Sharon Marshall isn’t happy about Jamie Borthwick being sacked!” one fan posted on social media, echoing the frustration of others who felt the punishment was too severe.
The Suspension That Sparked Controversy
The shock exit follows a stormy few months for the actor. Back in June, it was revealed that Borthwick had been suspended for using a derogatory term about disabled people while filming Strictly Come Dancing at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
A phone clip reportedly caught the remark, sparking widespread backlash. At the time, the BBC condemned the language as “entirely unacceptable and in no way reflective of our values.”
Borthwick quickly apologised, insisting he had not fully understood the meaning of the word. “I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused,” he said. “It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used… It was wrong.”
Despite the apology and suspension, reports suggested he was due to return to filming this month. Instead, BBC bosses made the decision to let him go.
Fans Defend the Actor
The news has divided opinion, with many long-time viewers rallying behind the actor. Social media was flooded with comments insisting a suspension should have been enough.
“Well said Sharon,” one fan wrote. “Ridiculous Jamie Borthwick has lost his job and career over very poor taste language. An apology and suspension should’ve been enough.”
Another added: “He’s been on EastEnders nearly 20 years, grown up on that show. Throwing him out feels harsh.”
A Career That Left Its Mark
Borthwick’s journey on EastEnders began when he was just 12 years old. His portrayal of Jay, who endured harrowing storylines including abuse, homelessness, and the death of foster father Billy Mitchell’s son, earned him multiple awards.
At just 13, he won the British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor, followed by recognition at the Inside Soap Awards. His character became a fixture of Albert Square, particularly in storylines alongside Lola Pearce and the Mitchell family.
For fans, his sudden departure not only ends a chapter but also leaves questions about how Jay Brown’s story will wrap up.
What’s Next for Jamie Borthwick?
While his exit marks the end of an era on EastEnders, Sharon Marshall is not alone in predicting a bright future. “I look forward to seeing him back on screen,” she said — a sentiment echoed by many fans who believe his talent will land him new roles soon.
For now, Borthwick’s focus is on moving forward after what he described as a “deeply embarrassing” mistake. His legacy as Jay Brown, however, is secure: nearly two decades of performances that helped define a generation of EastEnders.