EastEnders character Ian Beale is going to be “written out of the soap” when it returns from its break.
Adam Woodyatt, who is the BBC show’s longest-serving actor, will be at the centre of what is being described as an “explosive twist”.
It is these turn of events that will reportedly lead to the character’s extended break from future episodes.
According to the Daily Star, Woodyatt will not appear on-screen for up to 10 weeks.
“Writers are staying tight-lipped about what happens, so it’s not known yet what the future will hold for the character,” a source told the publication.
The Independent has contacted BBC and Woodyatt’s representatives for comment.
His break is expected to be due to Ian’s involvement in the death of Dennis – the son of Sharon (Letitia Dean) – in dramatic scenes broadcast as part of the show’s 35th anniversary in February.
Woodyatt has appeared on the soap since its very first episode in 1985.
Earlier this year, he revealed his brutal response to people who try to bodyshame him in public.
The actor said he is just as “rude and offensive” to people who comment on his weight.
EastEnderscame off the air in June after using up all of its completed episodes in the wake of the pandemic.
Episodes will run for 10 minutes shorter than usual when the soap returns on 7 September.
