EastEnders fans were left stunned as Jay Brown’s exit was explained after actor Jamie Borthwick was axed from the BBC soap following his suspension earlier this year
EastEnders viewers expressed their shock as Jay Brown’s departure was revealed following actor Jamie Borthwick’s dismissal from the show.
Earlier this month, it emerged that Jamie would not be reprising his role after nearly two decades portraying Jay on the BBC soap.
The character became synonymous with his touching relationship with Lola Pearce (Danielle Harold), who tragically succumbed to cancer in devastating scenes during 2023.
Last June, the 31-year-old actor faced a three-month suspension from EastEnders for using an offensive disability slur.
The controversy arose when Jamie reportedly branded Blackpool residents “absolute m*********'”whilst attending the 2024 Strictly Come Dancing live tour, having previously participated in the competition alongside professional dancer Jowita Przystał, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Although there were initial plans for Jamie to resume filming after serving his suspension, bosses have now confirmed his permanent departure from the programme.
A BBC Studios representative stated: “We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders. We do not comment on individual matters.”
Issuing an apology in July, Jamie expressed: “I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.
“That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.
“When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment. Again, that is no excuse. But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views or who I am.
“I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself. The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers and cast members. I know they will be again for this year’s show and those in years to come. I am truly sorry.”
Jay was last glimpsed in Walford on Monday, September 8, when he paused in the centre of the market to fasten his 13 year old stepdaughter Lexi Pearce’s shoelaces.
Having vanished since then, scenes broadcast on Wednesday evening (September 17) explained where Jay is expected to stay following Jamie’s sacking.
Whilst organising their son Louis’ birthday surprise, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) informed her fiancé Peter Beale (Thomas Law) that she was left to handle Louis’ present arrangements single-handedly.
“I’m here on my own ain’t I? Jay, his grandad got sick so he’s had to go and see him,” she explained.
With Jay away at his grandfather’s for an indefinite period, it seems doubtful that there will be any further reference to him in upcoming episodes.
Viewers watching the episode from home flocked to social media to share their thoughts on Jay’s sudden departure from the storyline.
One viewer posted on X: “So that’s how they’ve written Jay out then #eastenders”, while a second commented: “Omg I don’t even clock this was them explaining why Jay isn’t around, since his exit was so abrupt #EastEnders.”
A third chimed in: “Could be the last ever mention of a character who almost lasted two decades.”
“Jay had to visit his sick grandad has to be the worst send off for a long term character ever. Whatever he did, it must be bad #Eastenders”, claimed one viewer.
Over on Reddit, one fan explained: “I can’t believe we just got a throwaway line that jays with his grandad and we aren’t even gonna get a proper ending scene, doubt they gonna replace his actor but wouldn’t be surprised either if they did.”
While another remarked: “Well, Jay has officially left the square for good it seems. How long will they keep up the ‘his Grandad is ill’?”.
“Whoever it was who suggested Jay’s exit should be tied to his grandfather in another thread here a few weeks back really nailed it. Glad they’ve chosen that direction with the character instead of something else silly or unexplained”, shared another.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am
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