EastEnders star Harriet Thorpe has spoken about Kellie Bright’s upcoming departure from the BBC soap and the impact it could have on her own character, Elaine Peacock.
Bright, who has played Linda Carter for more than a decade, is expected to leave the role in 2027. The announcement has already sparked major discussion among viewers because Linda has been at the center of some of Walford’s biggest storylines.
Elaine faces life without Linda
Thorpe acknowledged the sadness surrounding her on-screen daughter’s departure. Elaine was introduced as Linda’s mother, meaning the exit changes an important part of the character’s family dynamic.
However, Thorpe indicated that Elaine still has plenty of life in Albert Square. The character has grown into a major Walford presence in her own right and has developed storylines and relationships beyond her connection to Linda.
A major EastEnders transition
Bright’s eventual exit will close a significant chapter for EastEnders after 13 years of Linda Carter drama. Until then, viewers will be watching closely to see how the soap prepares both Linda and Elaine for the change.