Its been a busy few days for EastEnders cast news with the announcements that Johnny Carter, Peter Beale and Dexter Hartman will all be bowing out from Walford in the coming months. Will Albert Square miss the three young characters? Here, Ryan Love offers his thoughts in our latest Soap Spy column. If I was a betting man, my money would never have been on Sam Strike being the first of the core Carter family to depart Albert Square. Instantly a fan favourite, Sams Johnny was at the forefront of one of the new familys first major plots, as the struggling teen came out in beautifully written scenes with Danny Dyers Mick. It came at an important time, as EastEnders had really begun turning itself around after a difficult period. The Carters arrival had given the show a new lease of life. So it came as quite a surprise to hear that Sam was leaving less than a year later. As a fan and a viewer its extremely disappointing. Johnny has had a relatively quiet year as an individual character. His coming out wasnt followed by anything major on the romance front until the more recent encounters with Ben Slappin Down Mitchell. Seeing the first Christmas promo picture of the Carters without Johnny was odd. After almost a year of establishing this strong family unit, were now losing one who has most endeared himself to viewers. Its a great shame. On the other hand, Sam is clearly ambitious and is taking his year on one of the BBCs biggest shows and using it as a platform to other things. It might be too early to consider a recast, but I could be persuaded if the family feels like it needs him back. As it is, there is enough going on for the Carters. Plus, Id like a real moment for the criminally underused Maddy Hill to shine in her own storyline. Im ready for Tamwar to swoop in here! This wasnt the only news for Enders fans this week, with exits for Peter Beale and Dexter Hartman also announced. Ben Hardys exit came as a surprise, but with rumours of Hollywood calling its not a surprising move. With Jacqueline Jossa due to go on maternity leave, an exit for both at a similar time seems likely. Peter Beale is a character who belongs on Albert Square. Abs or no abs, Id happily see a new actor join Jossa on her return. A lot has been said about recasts, and with #NewMartin still to make his onscreen appearance, its clear EastEnders arent afraid to take the risk. I can only imagine some slightly longer contracts will be signed with younger cast to prevent the comings and goings. Three departing male characters isnt as much of a concern for me when there are strong performers such as Jamie Borthwick and #NewBen actor Harry Reid, who I have enjoyed watching immensely. Id also love to see James Forde take on more now and really earn those Butcher stripes. I imagine Fatboy fans are keeping a close watch for news of his future on the Square... Oh, and Dexter. Cheerio.
Posted on: Fri, 28 Nov 2014 22:12:00 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015