Zack Morris has quit EastEnders after five years of playing Keegan Baker.
The 23-year-old is believed to have filmed his final scenes and paid tribute to the soap "changing [his] life for the better".
He said: "After five beautiful years on this incredible show, I have made the tough decision to leave Walford and give Keegan Butcher-Baker some well-earned rest.
“This show has quite frankly changed my life for the better. It will always hold a real loving place in my heart."
He continued to praise the "hard work" that goes into making four episodes a week, hailing it as "immense".
"This show has given me so much, not just as an actor but as a man," he said.
“These invaluable lessons I have learned at EastEnders will stay with me for the rest of my life.
“I will forever see this whole experience as the biggest blessing I could have ever asked for. I loved every second."
He took to his Instagram Stories to share the news, writing: "Off we go... It's been an absolute Honour. Thank you everyone at @bbceastenders for you continuing love and support. AND a massive thank you to everyone who's supported me on this crazy journey. It's been real."
BBC Studios' Head of Continuing Drama, Kate Oates, added: "Zack has been an incredible asset to EastEnders; not just as a brilliant actor, but as an amazing company member.
"As a founder member of the Taylor-Bakers, Zack has shone in important narratives such as the knife crime story; he’s broken hearts with his beautiful relationship with Tiffany Butcher; and is soon to take centre stage again as his sister’s killer is unmasked.
"We will miss Keegan from our screens, and Zack from our Elstree family.
"He’s a great talent, and we wish him well for the future.”
*EastEnders airs Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on BBC One
