05 October 2023 , 17:45
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Tom 'Rocky' Cotton only joined EastEnders back in 2021, but the character already feels like an integral part of life in Albert Square. Long-time viewers will of course recall that Rocky made an explosive entrance - even for Soapland - by cruelly pretending to be the long-lost biological father of Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy). And things haven't exactly calmed down from there. Rocky has since been at the centre of storylines concerning blackmail and gambling addiction, and many assumed there was plenty more drama to come.
Fans were recently shocked and dismayed therefore to learn that, very soon, it will be time to say goodbye to the likeable rogue, with actor Brian Conley announcing his departure from the BBC soap. Rumours have circulated as to why exactly Brian made this decision, including an alleged panto dispute, but the thespian has since come forward to explain his reasons in his own words.
The character of Rocky has been at the heart of EastEnders since 2021 (BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)Addressing fans in a video shared via Instagram, Brian, 62, insisted that he had not been involved with any rows with EastEnders bosses, as had previously been reported by The Sun. Brian revealed: "You may have heard reports that I'm leaving EastEnders. It was a tough decision but it is true, I am going and I made it for many reasons, that decision. It is tough because they're such a wonderful crowd, in front of the cameras and behind the cameras and I've loved my three years there. So that's the truth in the reports."
He continued: "There's other parts of reports saying that I clashed with TV bosses and the crew. I didn't clash with anyone. I didn't have a rant. But they'll probably report on this now that I'm ranting about ranting! But I'm not ranting! I have gone with their blessings at the Beeb and I'm excited about the future and where it's going to go. And I'm also excited about Rocky's exit because I know it's good. So I'm sending you much love – all EastEnders fans."
According to a previous report by The Sun, EastEnders writers are now dashing to squeeze Rocky's ending into the upcoming Christmas storyline, potentially resulting in the character's death, and bosses are said to be "furious". The soap insider told the publication: "They'd made so many plans around him and his character, and they really thought he was in for the long haul. There has been a lot said in private about him messing up their plans. Whatever has wound him up, it feels like he can't get out of there quick enough - and now they're going to have to rewrite their storyline plans for his rapid exit."
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As per another article published by The Sun, Brian made the decision to leave after cast members were told they couldn't take up pantomime roles next year, as the soap gears up for its 40th anniversary celebrations in February 2025. A source claimed: "Often in milestone celebratory years like the 40th anniversary, bosses need to have all cast available so that they can storyline appropriately up to and beyond December to guarantee that level of drama for audiences.
"There's a real buzz around the anniversary with plans already underway to bring audiences some explosive storylines. Filming for February usually takes place before Christmas, so for those wanting to do a five-week run would mean the show would be unable to use them in any of their plans relating to the anniversary."
A spokesperson told The Sun: "EastEnders cast take part in panto every year, but as we lead up to our milestone 40th anniversary, all cast members have been asked to be involved for storyline purposes. We've received no complaints. In fact, everyone has been supportive of the plan." Another spokesperson added: "As previously stated by Brian Conley earlier in the week, EastEnders are fully supportive of Brian's decision to leave at the end of his contract and we wish him the very best for the future."
In terms of the next chapter of Brian's career, he's currently embarking on a brand new tour entitled The 3rd Farewell Tour…To Date, which will bring audiences an "evening of comedy, music, and entertainment". Brian, who has previously starred in West End musicals such as Oliver!, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Hairspray, kickstarted his tour in Peterborough on September 24, with other dates lined up across the UK.
The Mirror has reached out to the BBC for comment.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.* Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on , , , , and .