The streets of Walford are bracing for a dramatic shake-up as EastEnders fans reel from the confirmed departure of Stacey Slater — and now fear that another legend, Phil Mitchell, might be following close behind. The latest news has sparked a frenzy among viewers, with whispers of a mass cast exodus threatening to change the face of the BBC soap forever.

Lacey Turner, who has played the fiery and complex Stacey Slater for more than two decades, has officially confirmed her exit. The 37-year-old actress will step away from the soap later this year to focus on life outside the Square, including her young family. Turner, a beloved staple of EastEnders, said she’s taking a break but hinted that this isn’t the end of Stacey’s story. In a heartfelt message, she shared: “It’s time for myself and Stacey to take a rest. And knowing Stacey, her time away will be anything but boring.”

Producers have promised that there’s still plenty of high-stakes drama lined up for Stacey before her send-off, but her absence will undoubtedly leave a massive void. Behind the scenes, it’s understood Lacey made the decision to step back last year, hoping to find balance between a hectic filming schedule and family life. Show insiders insist she’s not closing the door on EastEnders forever — suggesting fans may see Stacey return eventually.

However, as Stacey prepares for her temporary farewell, fans are now terrified that her departure may only be the beginning.

Their newest concern? Phil Mitchell.

Played by soap icon Steve McFadden, Phil has been an EastEnders pillar for decades, known for his hard-as-nails persona and intense family sagas. But recent storylines have taken the character down a darker path, with fans watching him grapple with the weight of depression and betrayal. In a shocking recent twist, Sharon admitted she had cheated on Phil with his brother Grant, adding emotional trauma to his already fragile state.

The rumour mill kicked into overdrive when a fan posted a pantomime advert featuring McFadden — set to play a role in Aladdin in 2025 — sparking speculation that the actor might be taking an extended leave from the soap. Viewers quickly began dissecting the possible implications. One Reddit user questioned whether this meant Phil would exit the show before the end of the year, especially with Christmas storylines typically involving major twists.

Fan theories vary — some believe that Phil might leave temporarily, possibly to Portugal to spend time with his daughter Louise, while others think he might be written out for a few months and return in early 2026, as he has done in past years. Some even suspect a heartbreaking exit tied to another character’s death — with names like Nigel being floated as likely to die around the holidays, potentially triggering Phil’s emotional exit.

Despite all the speculation, some fans have called for calm. One pointed out that Steve McFadden has done pantos annually for years, suggesting his appearance in Aladdin doesn’t necessarily spell a long-term exit. Still, the timing — coming so soon after Stacey’s confirmed departure — has left many uneasy.

And it’s not just Phil and Stacey who may be leaving.

2024 has already seen a steady stream of major EastEnders exits. Alan Ford’s short stint as Stevie Mitchell came to a quiet end after just six months. Clay Milner Russell, who portrayed Bobby Beale, also bowed out after five years. Meanwhile, fans have worried that James Bye — who plays Martin Fowler — could be next, citing his apparent frustration with recent storylines.

Beyond soap drama, several former stars have traded Walford for the bright lights of Hollywood. Rob Kazinsky, Ben Hardy, and Michelle Ryan are just a few who left Albert Square for international fame. These real-world success stories serve as a reminder that for some, EastEnders is just the first act of a much bigger performance.

Another factor complicating the cast situation is the ongoing behind-the-scenes strain on the soap’s production. EastEnders is reportedly facing a cash crunch, forcing producers to make difficult decisions. A mass character cull is widely feared, with insiders warning of major changes ahead. Fans suspect up to five more cast members could be axed as part of a strategic shake-up designed to refresh the show and balance its budget.

The mood among fans is one of nervous anticipation. With so many departures, viewers are left to wonder who’s safe — and who might be next to pack their bags. Phil Mitchell, given his deep roots in the soap and massive fan following, would be a seismic loss. But if past trends are anything to go by, any exit — even his — could be temporary.

For now, Stacey’s departure is the only confirmed exit, but all eyes are on Walford as it teeters on the edge of a new era. Whether this signals a revitalisation or a period of turbulence for EastEnders remains to be seen. One thing is certain: fans should brace for big changes, emotional goodbyes, and possibly, some long-overdue returns.