EastEnders icon Shona McGarty confesses real reason she's leaving BBC soap in 'brave' admission


EastEnders actress Shona McGarty has made headlines with her "brave" decision to depart the long-running BBC soap after 16 years in the role of Whitney Dean. McGarty, 32, cited the timeless adage that "life is too short" as her motivation for leaving the show, which has been a significant part of her life since 2008.

In a recent interview, McGarty expressed the difficulty of bidding farewell to a character and show that she has grown up with, likening it to leaving home. Despite the emotional attachment, she felt compelled to explore other opportunities in the industry before reaching a point where she might be considered too old for certain roles. Reflecting on her decision, McGarty emphasized the importance of being resolute in her choice, acknowledging the remarkable 16-year journey she had with EastEnders while recognizing the need for Whitney to take a break.

The actress filmed her final scene earlier this month, marking the end of an era for her character. McGarty admitted to being overcome with emotion as she drove away from Elstree Studios for the last time, receiving warm wishes from dedicated fans who had gathered with flowers and farewell cards. Despite her efforts to remain composed, she confessed to feeling a sense of grief at the departure.

Throughout her tenure on EastEnders, McGarty tackled challenging storylines, notably portraying Whitney's traumatic experiences with grooming. Her departure from the show leaves fans wondering about her next steps, though hints from her social media suggest a potential focus on music-related projects. McGarty has previously showcased her vocal talents on platforms like Children In Need and the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, indicating a possible direction for her future endeavors.