Jessie Wallace will take a temporary leave of absence from her role as Queen Victoria landlady Kat Slater this Christmas, The Sun can reveal.
The actress, 54, has been given permission by bosses to take a big-money job in panto.
Jessie Wallace will take a temporary leave of absence from the soap this Christmas Credit: Getty
The Sun revealed that Michelle Ryan is set to be killed off in the coming months Credit: PA
will play villain Captain Hook at the New Wimbledon Theatre’s production of Peter Pan between December and January.
A source said: “Jessie will be taking a short break from the soap to appear in panto.
“Bosses agreed to the short break because it’s over Christmas and won’t hugely affect filming.
“But it’s awkward that Michelle was refused a break when her on-screen mum has been given one.
The Kat Slater actress is taking a short break to appear in panto Credit: BBC
Michelle’s character Zoe Slater returned just a year ago but has already filmed her final scenes Credit: BBC
“It’s a huge bonus for Jessie. She’s one of the show’s biggest names and can command huge fees for panto appearances.”
The news comes after it was revealed Michelle Ryan had been
Actress Michelle has already filmed her final scenes.
The Sun has contacted the BBC for comment.
The 42-year-old delighted fans last year by returning to Walford as after a 20-year absence.
But shortly after , she asked bosses for time off earlier this year.
Michelle quit the soap, but scriptwriters have now made her decision permanent by killing off her character.
Michelle filmed her final scenes last month, and viewers will see Zoe’s departure play out on the One soap in the coming months.
A source said: “Michelle’s
“There’s been a backlash about her comeback, leaving some fans disappointed with her on-screen presence.
“There has been some disappointment backstage that the return was shortlived as everyone loved the Zoe Slater’s historic moments.”
Zoe and the Slater family took by storm when they arrived in 2000.
One of EastEnders’ most iconic plot twists was when “sister” Kat, played by , was revealed to be Zoe’s birth mum.
Michelle left the soap in 2005 to go to when she landed the lead in the Bionic Woman remake.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
