‘EastEnders’ sisters Abi and Lauren Branning are leaving the show.
The on-screen siblings, who are played by Lorna Fitzgerald, 21, and Jacqueline Jossa, 24, respectively will depart Walford later this year as part of a shake-up by soap boss John Yorke, and it’s expected they will receive explosive exits as part of the show’s festive plots.
A source told the Sun on Sunday newspaper: "He has form for creating huge plots, so they’re in safe hands over their departure.
"It will be one of the biggest on-screen moments of the year.
"Sometimes a great storyline comes at the cost of losing some characters. The cast will be sorry to see them go."
Jacqueline joined the show in 2010 and left in 2015 to have daughter Ella, now two, with husband Dan Osborne, but returned last year, while Lorna is leaving after 11 years on screen.
A spokesperson confirmed: "We can confirm Jacqueline and Lorna will be leaving.
"They have been wonderful to work with and we wish them all the best for the future."
While details of their exits are currently under wraps, current storylines show pub cook Abi pregnant with Steven Beale’s baby – even though he is Lauren’s fiance.
And there is further turmoil in store for the sisters as Steven was killed following a bungled arson in scenes which aired on Friday (08.09.17).
Previews for this week show Lauren slapping Abi after a row over her returning to the bottle, prompting speculation her sibling will hit back and uncover their secret affair.
Lorna Fitzgerald and Jacqueline Jossa to leave EastEnders
