New EastEnders boss John Yorke and Jenna Russell – who plays Michelle Fowler – have mutually agrees to the actress to leave the soap 14 months after the character made a dramatic return to Walford.
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Jenna took over the iconic role from original actress Susan Tully and was brought in by former executive producer Sean O’Connor.
The Sun reports that the character will be written out as Yorke focuses on other storylines such as bringing the Slater family back to Albert Square.
A source told the paper: “Bringing back an an old character always adds much needed nostalgia which fans love.
“But Michelle simply wasn’t going anywhere and was deemed a bit of a spare part.
“Jenna is an established actress in her own right and wouldn’t want to be on the periphery.”
Jenna took over the reigns as Michelle after Susan refused the chance to reprise the role that made her a household name in the 80s and 90s.
Since arriving back in the Square, Michelle’s biggest storyline has been the affair she had with her American student, Preston, who was also sleeping with Michelle’s niece, Bex.
She also had to deal with a creepy stalker in the form of Tom, who became obsessed with Michelle after meeting on a tube train.
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An official spokesperson for the BBC One soap confirmed Jenna’s departure, saying: “Jenna is a terrific actress who has loved her time on the show playing Michelle and it was a mutual decision to write the character out.
“We wish Jenna all the best for the future.”
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