# Kellie Bright departure from EastEnders

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kellie-bright-departure-from-eastenders
> Updated: 2026-09-02T10:11:37.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 3.

Actress Kellie Bright announced her decision to depart the BBC soap opera EastEnders after 13 years. Bright, who portrays Linda Carter, stated she made the decision over a year ago but remained to participate in an “exciting storyline.” Executive producer Ben Wadey described her as an “EastEnders icon” and noted that her planned exit would involve “unmissable drama.”

Following this announcement, it was revealed that characters Lee and Nancy Carter, played by Danny-Boy Hatchard and Maddy Hill, will return to the show this autumn. Their return is part of the major storyline marking the final months of Linda Carter’s tenure on the programme. Producer Wadey indicated that the upcoming developments would include a significant cliff-hanger intended to leave viewers “stunned.”

In a video message to fans, Bright expressed gratitude for their support, noting that “now is the right time” to leave the role. Referencing her character’s affinity for flamingos, she stated, “Linda hearts you back. Flamingos forever.” Bright indicated she is looking forward to her next chapter and spending more time with her family. Producers Kate Oates and Ben Wadey have reiterated that the character’s final storyline will be “full of unmissable drama.”

## Timeline

### 2026-09-02: Kellie Bright thanks fans following EastEnders exit announcement

EastEnders actress Kellie Bright has thanked fans via social media following the announcement of her upcoming departure from the BBC soap after 13 years playing Linda Carter.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kellie-bright-thanks-fans-following-eastenders-exit-announcement

### 2026-08-22: Lee and Nancy Carter to return to EastEnders

Lee and Nancy Carter will return to EastEnders this autumn as part of a major storyline surrounding Linda Carter’s departure from the BBC soap.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lee-and-nancy-carter-to-return-to-eastenders

### 2026-08-08: Kellie Bright to exit EastEnders after 13 years

Kellie Bright will leave BBC's EastEnders in 2027 after 13 years playing Linda Carter, following an agreement to stay to complete a major planned storyline.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kellie-bright-to-exit-eastenders-after-13-years

---
Cite as: Kellie Bright departure from EastEnders. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kellie-bright-departure-from-eastenders