EastEnders Whitney star felt it was 'time to spread her wings' ahead of exit

08 August 2023 , 21:07

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The actress has spoken out about her departure (Image: David Fisher/REX/Shutterstock)

EastEnders star Shona McGarty has finally shared the reason behind her dramatic soap exit.

McGarty, who plays fan-favourite character Whitney Dean, announced her shocking departure last week, which left long-time fans heartbroken.

The soap actress, 31, has now revealed the reason she has opted to leave Walford after 15 years. Shona has said it wasn't an "easy decision" to part ways with her friends and colleagues - but felt it was the right time to "spread her wings."

"I've had so much fun and done so many storylines, some of which have been sensitive, and I've been honoured to be trusted with such heavy stuff year after year," she said. McGarty, who has played her character since she was 16 years old, added: "After 15 years, I’ve had a pretty good run," she told Inside Soap.

It is believed she will leave the soap next year, and producers are still deliberating her exit storyline. A source close to the star claimed Shona does not want her character to be killed off so the door is "left open" for a possible return.

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Whitney has been at the centre of many compelling storylines, including losing her unborn child, Peach, earlier this year. The market trader had to make the decision to terminate her pregnancy after finding out her unborn daughter was suffering from Edwards' syndrome.

Shona has played Whitney on the soap for over a decade (BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

This distressing storyline echoes Whitney miscarrying another child seven years earlier while married to Lee Carter. The devastating plot earned Shona a nomination for Best Leading Performer at the 2023 British Soap Awards.

Shona made an explosive entry on EastEnders in 2008 as the teenage daughter of Bianca Jackson. She was the victim in a grooming storyline, with Bianca's fiancé Tony King sexually abusing her at the age of 12. Whitney has also been embroiled in a string of unsuccessful romantic relationships, including one marriage and three engagements during her 15 years on the show.

Most recently, she was engaged to Callum Highway, but their relationship broke down when Callum confessed to his affair with Ben Mitchell. Fans are hoping Whitney will finally have a happily ever after as her exits looms and after she endured a world of pain in Albert Square.

Opening up about her departure from the show, Shona told the Sun: "I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving Eastenders. I have loved my years in the show. I have been trusted with some incredible storylines and have made amazing friendships — and family — which will endure."

Ayaan Ali