‘The real reason’ Brian Conley is suddenly leaving EastEnders revealed as bosses ‘fear more cast members could leave’
Brian Conley announced his shock exit from EastEnders four days ago and now reports have emerged about the real reason behind his sudden departure.
The 62-year-old actor, who plays Thomas “Rocky” Cotton in the BBC soap, is said to have quit after the cast were denied pantomime roles next year.
Brian’s resignation has reportedly sparked concerns that other cast members could also leave due to scheduling conflicts with filming for the soap’s 40th anniversary.
Brian and other stars of the soap earn lucrative six-figure earnings from their pantomime roles, but show executives have asked them to choose between those appearances and a return to Albert Square in 2024.
The soap, whose 40th anniversary will be celebrated in February 2025, is due to start filming in November – right in the middle of the pantomime season.
Shock: Brian Conley announced his surprise exit from EastEnders four days ago and now reports have emerged about the real reason behind his sudden exit
Buttons: The 62-year-old actor, who plays Thomas ‘Rocky’ Cotton in the BBC soap, is said to have quit after the cast were refused pantomime roles next year (pictured in 2014)
A TV insider told The Sun that with such a big milestone for the soap, bosses needed to have all members of the cast available to tell the plot in the best possible way and “create that level of drama for the audience.” could guarantee.
They added: “The anniversary is full of excitement and plans are already in place to bring audiences some explosive storylines.”
“February filming usually takes place before Christmas. For those wanting to do a five-week filming run, this would mean the show would not be able to accommodate them in their anniversary-related plans.”
A source at EastEnders told Web: “The EastEnders cast take part in the panto every year, but in the run-up to our 40th anniversary, all cast members have been asked to get involved for storyline purposes – in fact we have received no complaints.” Everyone supported the plan.
“As Brian Conley stated earlier this week, EastEnders fully supports Brian’s decision to leave at the end of his contract and we wish him all the best for the future.”
Web revealed earlier this week that the BBC has supported Brian’s decision to leave the show, rejecting claims of a feud and that he had called for him to be axed from the show.
Brian also took to his Instagram grid to confirm the news and further refute claims that there was a disagreement.
In a social media video he said: “Hello, it’s me Brian, aka Rocky from EastEnders. “I’m just sending this message to all the fans. You may have heard reports that I’m leaving.
Words: Brian took to his Instagram grid this week to confirm the news of his departure and rebut claims that there had been disagreements between him and the BBC
Role: The 62-year-old actor has been playing Thomas “Rocky” Cotton since May 2021, but is now devoting himself to new projects
“It was a difficult decision, but it is true that I will leave. I made this decision for many reasons.” It was hard because they are such a wonderful audience in front of and behind the cameras and I really enjoyed my three years there.
‘That’s the truth. There are reports that I have clashed and cussed, but I don’t cuss. I left with their blessing, the Beeb, and I’m excited about the future and where it goes, and I’m looking forward to Rocky’s departure because it’s a good one!
“So sending you lots of love to all you EastEnders fans and enough said!”
Brian first performed as Tom “Rocky” Cotton in May 2021, but is now embarking on a new tour entitled “The 3rd Farewell Tour…To Date” where he will perform an evening of comedy, music and entertainment starting September 24th becomes.
Brian’s representatives have been contacted by Web for comment.