Bonnie Langford has confirmed she is leaving EastEnders later this year.
The 53-year-old actress, who plays grieving mum Carmel Kazemi, will leave Albert Square in the autumn.
Her exit storyline will come in the aftermath of the devastating knife crime storyline.
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Carmel’s son Shakil was stabbed to death in shocking scenes that aired in May.
Since then, viewers have seen grief etched on Carmel’s face as she has struggled to come to terms with the horrifying events.
She even attempted to take her own life, before coming to her senses.
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Carmel arrived in Walford more than three years ago, but will be remembered mostly for recent devastating events.
In a statement printed in The Mirror, Bonnie explained: “I’ve had a wonderful three-and-a-half years at EastEnders and it’s been a privilege to be part of such an iconic show.
“My storyline has been such an incredible experience and I’m honoured to be part of something so powerful and poignant.”
“However, I’ve known since the beginning of this storyline it would always lead to Carmel having to take a break from Walford.”
Bonnie joined the soap in 2015 and was only supposed to stay for six months, but proved so popular she stayed.
We’re told the character will NOT be killed off, leaving the door open for her to return.
Bonnie adds: “I’m not leaving just yet, there’s still plenty more to come from Carmel.”
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