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EastEnders Chief Resigns After Three Years, Describes Role as ‘Honor of a Lifetime’ as Successor is Announced

Executive producer Chris Clenshaw of EastEnders has revealed that he will be leaving the show next year, calling it “the honour of his life” with great passion. When the BBC soap opera celebrates its 40th anniversary in February 2025, the 37-year-old TV executive will resign from his position, and a well-known figure will take over

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Executive producer Chris Clenshaw of EastEnders has revealed that he will be leaving the show next year, calling it “the honour of his life” with great passion.

When the BBC soap opera celebrates its 40th anniversary in February 2025, the 37-year-old TV executive will resign from his position, and a well-known figure will take over.

Ben Wadey, who was the Commissioning Executive for Hollyoaks and several other original dramas at Channel 4, will be making a comeback to EastEnders.

Previously Ben worked on EastEnders as the Story Editor overseeing many stories including the celebrations for the 35th anniversary, as well as a special episode focussed on Linda Carter as she struggled with her alcoholism.  

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Chris on the other hand, returned to the soap taking on his Executive Producer role back in January 2022 and has since been credited with ‘turning EastEnders back into appointment viewing’ with ‘mind-blowing plot twists and devastating real-life storylines’.

EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw has announced that he will be stepping down from his role next year, which he has emotionally dubbed ‘the honour of his life’

Ben Wadey will be returning to EastEnders from Channel 4 where he was Commissioning Executive overseeing Hollyoaks and a number of original dramas

During his second stint at EastEnders, Chris created many bold storylines and tackled big issues that will go down in EastEnders history, including the award-winning Loving & Losing Lola.

He was also responsible for The Six flashforward whodunit, and the return of Cindy Beale, while also producing unmissable episodes including The Platinum Jubilee with the then Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, the 1979 Mitchell’s Flashback, Dot Cotton’s funeral, and Jay and Honey running The London Marathon.

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He created the Knights; the first black and dual heritage family to run a pub on any UK soap, headed up by Colin Salmon, and has brought back fan favourites including Adam Woodyatt, Michelle Collins, Jacqueline Jossa, Shane Richie, Angela Wynter and Patsy Palmer.

Under Chris’ leadership, EastEnders has won numerous awards including Best Soap and Continuing Drama at this year’s Royal Television Society (RTS) Awards, as well as taking home seven awards at this year’s Radio Times Awards, and every public-nominated award at last year’s British Soap and National Television Awards.

Before Chris leaves Walford, he will oversee the hotly anticipated 40th anniversary, which is going live as part of its celebrations and, in a first for the soap, will include an interactive element where the viewers will have the power to decide the outcome of a storyline.

The TV boss has had a long career at EastEnders, from he beginning by working on the show in 2015 as a storyliner, before going on to script edit and story produce. 

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He left EastEnders in 2019 to produce continuing drama, Holby City, and left the BBC in 2020 to work in development at Vertigo Films and Rope Ladder Fiction, before returning in 2022 for three more years.

Chris will continue working for BBC Studios Drama Productions. Speaking of his decision to leave, he said: ‘As a proud EastEnders fan, it has been the honour of my life to be its custodian. It has meant everything to me, and I’ve given Walford my all. 

During his second stint at EastEnders, Chris created many bold storylines including The Six flashforward whodunit

During his second stint at EastEnders, Chris created many bold storylines including The Six flashforward whodunit

He tackled big issues that will go down in EastEnders history, including the award-winning Loving & Losing Lola

He tackled big issues that will go down in EastEnders history, including the award-winning Loving & Losing Lola

He produced  unmissable episodes including The Platinum Jubilee with the then Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall

He produced  unmissable episodes including The Platinum Jubilee with the then Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall

Under Chris' leadership, EastEnders has won numerous awards (pictured with a BAFTA in 2019)

Under Chris’ leadership, EastEnders has won numerous awards (pictured with a BAFTA in 2019)

‘I made the tough decision that I would step down after the 40th anniversary many months ago – to keep EastEnders creatively refreshed as it’s a show that needs to constantly evolve. 

‘After what will be three years at the helm and leading the team through its milestone celebrations, the time feels right that I hand over the keys to The Queen Vic.’ 

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He continued: ‘Elstree holds a special place in my heart, and I know when the day comes, it’ll be hard to tear myself away. 

‘My special thanks go to the sensational EastEnders cast and crew that I’m incredibly proud to have led over the past few years, and who have provided me with unwavering support. 

‘Their commitment, passion and talent has inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them and proud of everything that we’ve achieved together. 

‘EastEnders has been the highlight of my career and I have loved every minute of it, but it’s time for change, and for a new chapter, and I’m delighted to be staying within BBC Studios Drama Productions.

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‘Although my departure from EastEnders is not for some time yet, whilst I’m still here, I look forward to putting all our efforts into our momentous anniversary.’ 

Finally, he praised Ben Wadey by guipping: I’m pleased to be passing the show on to Ben Wadey. I’m confident that, under him, EastEnders will continue to thrive, and I wish him the very best as it is without doubt the best job in telly and I hope he enjoys the ride just as much as I have. Thank you, EastEnders – for everything.’

Chris said: 'Although my departure from EastEnders is not for some time yet, whilst I'm still here, I look forward to putting all our efforts into our momentous anniversary' (pictured in 2023)

Chris said: ‘Although my departure from EastEnders is not for some time yet, whilst I’m still here, I look forward to putting all our efforts into our momentous anniversary’ (pictured in 2023)

Speaking about his new role as Executive Producer, Ben Wadey said: 'I'm thrilled to be returning to EastEnders at such an exciting time for the show'

During her previous time on EastEnders, Ben also played a pivotal role in the introduction of the Panesar family, fronted by the formidable matriarch Suki. 

At Holby City, Ben served as Story Producer for the BAFTA-nominated final series. His final episodes featured the farewell to Holby legend Jac Naylor and the return of numerous beloved characters.

Speaking about his new role as Executive Producer, Ben Wadey said: ‘I’m thrilled to be returning to EastEnders at such an exciting time for the show. 

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‘Having grown up watching and loving EastEnders, it sparked my passion for television, and I feel I’ve known the residents of Walford my entire life – so to lead this iconic BBC soap into its next chapter is a true privilege. 

‘I can’t wait to collaborate with the exceptional team at EastEnders and build on Chris Clenshaw’s brilliant work to deliver unmissable stories to fans – both those who have been watching for years and those just discovering Albert Square.’ 

Eastenders

“EastEnders Spoilers: Phil Uncovers Shocking Truth About Nigel as Nicola Spirals”

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This article includes discussion of suicide that some readers may find distressing.

Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) is left shocked by a distressing discovery about unwell Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) next week.

Meanwhile, Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) is reeling when her secret edges closer to exposure.

Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James) feels isolated after her recent association with drugs.

Also, Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho) is determined to be his own man.

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Read on for all your EastEnders spoilers for 21st -24th April 2025.

4 EastEnders spoilers next week

1. Phil Mitchell makes a distressing discovery about Nigel Bates

There’s an Easter egg hunt under way in Albert Square, and it spurs Nigel on to escape from Phil’s overprotectiveness and prove himself at the same time.

When Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter) asks Nigel to dress up as the Easter Bunny, all goes well until Nigel ends up in a row with Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman), after Nigel confuses young Hope Fowler (Isabelle Smith) for Clare (Gemma Bissix).

The altercation leads Harvey, Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) and Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) to question Phil on Nigel’s wellbeing, and he finally reveals all about his dementia diagnosis.

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Then, at the house, Phil accidentally discovers that Nigel intends to end his own life if his memory continues to deteriorate. Nigel tries to explain his reasoning to Phil, but Phil refuses to listen and leaves.

Jean and Nigel have a heart-to-heart about his illness, but Nigel keeps quiet about what Phil has discovered.

Phil goes to see Linda Carter (Kellie Bright), who encourages him to support Nigel through his diagnosis. Phil is buoyed by their chat, and heads home to make amends with Nigel.

But Phil is worried to find Nigel’s goodbye letter, as Nigel makes to leave Walford. Phil goes in search of his vulnerable friend, but he’s fearful when Yolande and Jean tell him they haven’t seen Nigel.

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Linda helps in the search, and she tries to reason with Phil as Nigel is eventually found. Phil and Nigel make up, and Nigel reluctantly agrees to return home.

But he breaks down, adamant that he wants to end his life before his dementia takes hold.

Phil’s efforts to dissuade Nigel fail, but then Yolande gives Phil food for thought and he comes up with a plan.

As the week comes to an end, Nigel is overwhelmed by Phil’s overzealous, caring approach, and Phil tells Kathy Cotton (Gillian Taylforth) that Nigel is no longer capable of working at the café.

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But will Nigel change his mind about his plans?

If you need help and support on issues raised within this article, please visit Samaritans, CALM, Rethink Mental Illness and Mind for guidance.

Dementia UK provides a helpline staffed by specialist admiral nurses who can advise on all aspects of caring for someone with dementia. To speak to someone, phone: 0800 888 6678.

2. Nicola Mitchell panics as murder secret risks exposure


Teddy Mitchell (Roland Manookian) tries to take a clandestine call from Junior Knight (Micah Balfour) about their project, but Nicola overhears and Teddy is forced to reveal all.

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Nicola pleads with Teddy to pull out of the business deal, but he refuses, later hiring Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw) to join the build.

Nicola is soon shocked to hear the location of the site – the place where Shireen, who Nicola is responsible for killing, is buried!

Nicola panics as Teddy tells her that construction will begin this week, and she summons hitman Benji to Harry’s Barn. Out of options, Nicola tells Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) she has a job for him.

The next day, Teddy, Harry (Elijah Holloway) and Barney (Lewis Bridgeman) pull out all the stops for Nicola’s birthday, but she’s distracted, summoning Ravi to Walford East and offering him £10k for a job.

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At The Arches, Nicola lies to Harry and manages to secure a customer’s van for the job.

But can Nicola protect her secret?

3. Avani Nandra-Hart feels isolated and Barney Mitchell rejects Zack Hudson’s help

Priya (Sophie Khan Levy) encourages Avani to spend time with her friends, but it’s clear they are avoiding her when Avani’s texts go unanswered.

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At McKlunky’s, Priya persuades Avani to have lunch with Barney, and the teens eventually make amends.

Meanwhile, Barney leaves Zack Hudson (James Farrar) deflated when he refuses his help with Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) and Joel Marshall (Max Murray), and things soon go from bad to worse for Zack.

With Zack still keeping quiet over the fact that he’s Barney’s biological father, what happens next?

Later, Barney frets when Avani accepts his invite to Nicola’s birthday party. Will all go well?

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4. Kojo Asare seeks independence

Teddy gives the Knights an update on The Vic rebuild.

But it’s clear that Kojo isn’t thrilled at the prospect of moving back there, and he later expresses his wish to live alone.

George (Colin Salmon) isn’t convinced, despite persuasion from daughter Gina (Francesca Henry).

Kojo is determined to prove himself, and soon lands himself a trial shift at The Arches with Harry.

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Kojo is excited for his first day at The Arches, and happily, things go well.

Kojo bags a permanent job and an invite to Nicola’s birthday bash, but will George be able to accept that Kojo wants to be independent?

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Natalie Cassidy Drops Big Hint About Sonia Fowler’s EastEnders Comeback

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EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has hinted that it may not be the end for her iconic character Sonia Fowler, despite her recent exit announcement

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy said she’s “never going to say goodbye” to Sonia Fowler following 32 on-off years on Albert Square.

The 41-year-old actress is set to make her imminent on-screen exit, though has hinted that Sonia could make a return when the time is right.

Following a dramatic time on the soap which has included Sonia’s live birth during the soap’s 40th anniversary week, chaos caused by her late fiancé Reiss Colwell (played by Jonny Freeman), and the surprise appearance of her father, Natalie insists Sonia is keen for a new beginning.

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Reflecting on her final scenes, she said she was happy to have her “sister” Patsy Palmer by her side, amid the continuous drama between Sonia and Patsy’s character Bianca Jackson.

In an interview with Best Magazine, Natalie said: “I get on so well with Patsy and it was just lovely to be with her and have such a laugh. We’ve known each other for such a long time and we are like sisters.”

Looking ahead, she speculated about future plots, adding: “You never know what’s going to happen with Sonia and Bianca, maybe they’ll turn up in the Square in 10 years time dripping in diamonds.”

Natalie also remarked that she can’t say goodbye to Sonia for good as the character is “ingrained in me”.

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“So, while I’m saying goodbye on screen for now, Sonia is always there, knocking about,” she continued.

Natalie’s decision to leave the show comes as she explores new opportunities, including a fresh presenting role on Channel 4.

As part of the four-part series What’s the Big Deal?, she investigates the latest internet crazes from lion’s mane mushrooms to LED masks.

Speaking about her venture, she said: “I get sucked into things, which happens a lot around Christmas. What’s The Big Deal? is designed to prevent these purchases.

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“And also make people think a bit harder before they buy in a cost of living crisis, and when it’s so easy to click and buy these days, we think it’s an important programme.”

Recently asked about potentially joining the cast of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, Natalie admitted that while it wasn’t on her radar, she could change her mind should financial pressures ever occur.

She said on This Morning: “I would rather not at the moment, but you never know do you? If a big tax bill comes in, I might get in there!”.

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Patsy Palmer Teases Major New Role Following Celebrity Big Brother Exit

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EastEnders star Patsy Palmer has been a part of the BBC soap for over 30 years, but it seems she’s eyeing up a move to rival soap Coronation Street after a chat with Jack P Shepherd

EastEnders legend Patsy Palmer has teased the possibility of an unexpected soap switch during her time in the Celebrity Big Brother house chatting with Jack P Shepherd.

The much-loved actress, known for portraying the fiery Bianca Jackson on the BBC show, suggested she could see herself strolling down Coronation Street.

In a heart-to-heart with the actor behind Corrie’s David Platt, the 52-year-old star playfully entertained the idea of changing teams and joining Jack on the famous cobbles.

While bantering in the kitchen, Patsy joked about swapping sides and acting alongside Jack’s character.

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She even asked her fellow housemate for some coaching on getting the northern twang right, cheekily asking how to say: “Let’s have a bit of cake and some tea.”

Jack appeared tickled by her attempt as he made himself a cuppa.

Patsy has been gracing our screens as Bianca since her debut on EastEnders back in 1993, and her character has had quite the journey within Walford over the years.

Before entering the well-known reality TV house, Patsy openly reflected on being forever tied to Bianca’s image, expressing disappointment that many people can’t detach her from her role.

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She shared: “I think fans might think I’m quite feisty because of Bianca but I’m not really, I’m quite a calm person,” adding that “Even at work at EastEnders, people always say that I bring quite a nice sort of vibe.”, reports the Mirror.

She expressed her eagerness to demonstrate the contrast between herself and her on-screen persona, chuckling as she said, “I’ve got my life together!”

In contrast to her character, she noted, “[Bianca] can’t get her life together. She’s in fight or flight. “I’m not in fight or flight. I’m not really zen, but I do like to try my best to follow that way of life, which is so different from the drama in her life!”

As housemates entered the diary room on Monday to cast their votes for the upcoming eviction, the process followed the recent removal of Mickey Rourke from the show due to his misconduct.

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The renowned actor is reportedly facing a significant cut to his earnings after his premature departure. On Saturday night, it was disclosed that Rourke had been expelled from the house after a particularly intense first week.

It is now believed that he will receive far less than his original salary. Sitting in the Diary Room post-eviction, the 72-year-old star of The Wrestler didn’t resist his dismissal and implied that the desire for his exit was mutual. “I went over the line, you know, I did wrong,” he admitted.

“I guess, like they say, I’m a work in progress. I just wanna pack my bags and leave, you know. I wanted to leave yesterday actually but I wasn’t chosen.”

He had initially joined the show as its highest-paid celebrity with an impressive £500,000 fee.

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The Sun reports that he will now only get a small portion of that amount. It is speculated that he will take home £50,000.

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