Janine Butcher to leave EastEnders as star Charlie Brooks departs

However, after 18 months back in the role it has been revealed that Janine will bow out in the New Year.

Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, Brooks revealed that she was originally only due to return for one year but extended her contract after a further storyline was proposed to her.

Brooks said: "I was only ever due back to EastEnders for a year, but when [exec producer] Chris Clenshaw presented me with his idea for the story, I couldn’t say no to staying a little longer."

She added: "I’ve had an amazing time, as I always do when I go back. But as always with Janine, she probably should not outstay her welcome — for everyone’s sake."

The BBC declined to comment further when approached by RadioTimes.com.

Janine's exit looks set to coincide with the return of her brother Ricky Butcher as actor Sid Owen is back for a short stint later this year.

Since her return last year, Janine’s storylines have focused on her custody battle for her daughter Scarlett Butcher and a love triangle with Mick (Danny Dyer) and Linda Carter (Kellie Bright).

Recent storylines have seen Janine announce that she is pregnant with her and Mick’s child just as he was poised to reconcile with his wife Linda.

Janine previously was responsible for a car crash involving a drunk Linda who she later abandoned at the scene and framed her as being responsible for.

Fans will have to wait and see if Janine will be exposed before her departure but her daughter Scarlett is already suspicious.

Danny Dyer is also set to bow out from his role as Mick Carter towards the end of the year.

• Read more: EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap?
• Read more: EastEnders biggest reveals since Sharongate
• Read more: EastEnders announces more exits

EastEnders airs from Mondays to Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Visit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. If you’re looking for more to watch check out our TV Guide.

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