Ellen Thomas leaves EastEnders (but Claudette could be back!) | What to Watch

Claudette Hubbard — (Image credit: BBC/Jack Barnes)

EastEnders says the door has been left firmly ajar for actress Ellen Thomas and her character Claudette Hubbard may yet again grace Albert Square

EastEnders’ actress Ellen Thomas (Claudette Hubbard) is leaving Walford to take up a stage role in the latest departure to rock the soap.

Ellen is swapping Albert Square for a part in theatre production The Hotel Cerise.

The production will run in October and November at The Theatre Royal Stratford East.

Ellen Thomas — (Jack Barnes/BBC)

Fans of the soap were disappointed by the news and paid tribute to Ellen on Twitter.

But the BBC has confirmed Ellen’s role will be left open for a possible return.

A spokeswoman said: “As our regular viewers will know, Claudette has often been seen coming and going from the Square to visit her family and friends.

“This is the end of another stint for Claudette and we wish Ellen all the best for the future.”

It follows the news earlier this month that popular Nitin Ganatra will quit as Masood Ahmed after nine years in the role.

We certainly hope Claudette returns: here are 10 Reasons Why We Love Claudette

Claudette Hubbard

10 reasons we love EastEnders' Claudette Hubbard

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