'EastEnders' characters face axe
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
More 'EastEnders' characters are facing the axe.
Last week saw the shock departure of Danielle Jones from the BBC soap and it has already been announced Garry Hobbs (Ricky Groves) and Dawn Swann (Kara Tointon) will leave the programme this summer. An show source has, however, warned more characters face the sack because of budget cuts.
Click here to see the latest EastEnders photos >
The insider said: "We have to shave a third off the wage bill. It's the economic climate, sadly."
Of being written out of the show Ricky said: "It is coming on to ten years now that I have been at 'EastEnders'.
"The programme has been very kind to me over the years and it has been a wonderful experience playing the role of the loveable Garry Hobbs.
"I've played Garry for so long, I can't imagine a time when I won't be him."
Meanwhile, an online petition has been set up to protest against the killing off of Danielle, played by Lauren Crace, last Thursday (02.04.09).
Click here to go to our Lauren Crace Photo Gallery >
Danielle was run over by Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) shortly after revealing to character Ronnie Mitchell (Samantha Janus) that she was her daughter.
Over 5,500 fans had signed the petition by yesterday (06.04.09).
The appeal reads: "We, the fans of the show, believe it is a mistake to write out the most pivotal character in possibly the best storyline EastEnders has had."
The show's producer, Diederick Santer, countered: "Our aim is to deliver the best drama - that doesn't always lead to a happy ending."
(C) BANG Media International
More EastEnders »
Stacey Branning's confession stays 'active'
'EastEnders' bosses have vowed Stacey Branning's murder confession won't be forgotten.
Monday, 22 March 2010, 12.45pm - in Television
Phil Mitchell's daughter returns
Wednesday, 17 March 2010, 4.33pm - in Television
Max Branning's Stacey special
Max Branning and Stacey Slater will have their own "two-hander" episode.
Sunday, 14 March 2010, 12.38pm - in Television
EastEnders shocked by secret child
A mystery girl is about to turn up on 'EastEnders' looking for her long-lost parent.
Tuesday, 9 March 2010, 4.16pm - in Television
Lucky mum Jo Joyner
Jo Joyner is "lucky" to have her twins.
Tuesday, 9 March 2010, 2.31pm - in Television
John Partridge no fan of 'stereotype' Sean
'EastEnders' star John Partridge thinks 'Coronation Street' character Sean Tully is a predictable gay "stereotype".
Monday, 8 March 2010, 4.31pm - in Television
