EastEnders star Kellie Bright has announced she is leaving the BBC soap, saying it is "the right time" to say goodbye.
The 50-year-old actress will step down from her role as Linda Carter after 13 years.
Linda is known for her complicated life on Albert Square and for co-owning the Queen Vic pub with her husband, Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer.
Kellie Bright waves goodbye to Albert Square after 13 years. Head here for more info! ➡️ https://t.co/KG6iROHlPO #EastEnders @BBC @BBCiPlayer @bbcpress pic.twitter.com/WJpn0KzNzf
— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) August 8, 2026
Kellie Bright reveals she is leaving EastEnders after 13 years
Speaking about her departure, Bright said: "EastEnders has been my home for 13 years and I have absolutely loved being part of the show, but I have decided that it is now the right time for me to say goodbye.
"I made the tough decision over a year ago, and after discussing this with Kate Oates and Ben Wadey, they asked me to stay on to be part of an exciting storyline they had planned, and I happily agreed to extend my stay.
"I will miss my friends and colleagues hugely, but I am looking forward to my next chapter and spending more time with my wonderful boys."
During her time on the show, Bright’s character has dealt with some of EastEnders’ most difficult storylines, including sexual assault, infidelity, and murder.
Executive producer, Ben Wadey, said: "Kellie has been at the beating heart of EastEnders for the past 13 years.
"Her characterisation of the fiercely lovable, protective, and brilliant Linda Carter has made her a favourite amongst the viewers and cemented her as a classic EastEnders icon.
"Kellie has been involved in some of the show’s most explosive and iconic storylines, and everyone at EastEnders will miss Kellie and Linda dearly.
"When Kellie told us of her decision last year to leave, we already had big plans for Linda, so we were delighted that Kellie agreed to stay on to see them through.
"We’ve still got a long way to go before we say goodbye, but I can promise that Kellie’s exit storyline will be full of unmissable drama."
Bright’s departure follows a dramatic Christmas Day episode in 2023, during which Linda fatally stabbed Keanu Taylor in a flash-forward storyline to save Sharon Watts.
She was also at the centre of a long-running plot involving her rape by Dean Wicks, and an affair with Max Branning that led to the birth of his daughter.
More recently, Linda has been seen running a bed and breakfast with her mother, Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe), and starting a new relationship with Clive Masters (Jason Durr).
Fans "gutted" about Kellie Bright's EastEnders exit
EastEnders fans have reacted to the news of Bright's departure, saying: "Things won't be the same without her."
One person, posting on Reddit group r/EastEnders, said: "Truly a massive blow that the show can’t really be seen to take right now
Another added: "Nooooooooooooooo.
"One of the best most natural actresses on the show.
"Will miss Linda so much.
"I hope they give her a happy ending.
"Things won't be the same without her."
A third fan commented: "Damn, I'll miss her. Linda is one of my fav characters. I hope she leaves on a happy note.
"Possible Mick return?"
This viewer posted: "One of the exits in a few years i am truly gutted about, hope its not for good but tbh it makes sense her going. I want a happy ending for Linda."
EastEnders is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
What has been your favourite Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) moment from EastEnders? Let us know in the comments below.
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