03 August 2023 , 11:26
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Karen Taylor is reportedly leaving EastEnders after six years in the role, with focus now turning to what her exit storyline will be.
Lorraine Stanley – who plays Karen – joined EastEnders in 2017 alongside her on-screen children Keegan ( Zack Morris ), Keanu (Danny Walters), Bernadette (Clair Norris), Chantelle (Jessica Plummer), as well as Riley and Chatham, played by real-life brothers Tom and Alfie Jacobs. Her character has suffered some heartache over the years, including the tragic loss of her daughter Chantelle.
Recently, she has also been locked in a feud with Sharon over her decision to meddle in Keanu's relationship with his daughter Peggy, whilst some think her exit could be to do with the big Christmas death. Fans are now sure they've rumbled how she could exit the BBC soap – and it looks like it could be a sad one.
Could Karen's exit be something to do with Keanu? (BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)Some fans are convinced Karen could die, as they believe that's the only way Karen would leave Walford or leave her kids behind in, with Keanu and Bernie amongst others likely to stay.
"If they are writing her out, this [for her to die] is the only way that makes sense. Karen would NEVER leave her family voluntarily #EastEnders," one shared, whilst another guessed Keanu could die at Christmas: "The fact that Karen is leaving means it’s Keanu that dies at Christmas. Chantelle is dead. Kegan is gone so that’ll be her exit storyline. It also explains Sharon’s reaction in the flash forward." Others, meanwhile, think Karen could leave to support her son Keanu, who recently split from Sharon after he discovered her role in his daughter Peggy leaving Walford for Portugal.
EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness
Someone will die this Christmas! (BBC)"I think Karen will move near the other boys + take Mack + Mia - the others are all settled especially if Keanu + Sharon reunite + her badmouthing her is tiresome + seems to be her only purpose so fresh start needed. Can't see her going to Portugal even if Keanu left for there," one suggested, whilst another added: "Wouldn’t be surprised if they both moved to Portugal to be closer to Peggy."
Sources previously claimed Lorraine's exit would create a "new arc" for other characters.
"It’s always a tough call for bosses when deciding which characters will leave the soap, but it has to be done to keep storylines fresh and create new arcs for characters. Lorraine had a great run on the soap and was a real scene stealer with her comic timing and she has certainly made her mark with fans," a source revealed recently of Lorraine's exit.