EastEnders confirms crushing exit and a nation’s heart is broken

Julie Bates has confirmed that she’s leaving Walford (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron)

EastEnders spoilers follow for Wednesday’s (May 20) episode, which can now be streamed on BBC iPlayer. The episode in question will air at 7:30pm.

It’s an update that I hoped I’d never have to write – and news that EastEnders fans prayed wouldn’t come to pass – but sadly Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) has confirmed she’s leaving the Square after husband Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) fune...