EastEnders fans enjoyed the return of Tamzin Outhwaite’s character Mel Owen last year, bringing one of the original matriarchs back to the show.
Since her appearance on the show the Albert Square star has murdered her ex-husband, gotten together with another ex, and witnessed his son killing someone.
This evening Tamzin announced her exit from the show on Twitter, and indeed the end of Mel’s time on the show.
She wrote: “So that’s it! The end of an era… for me at least.
“Melanie Healy/Beale/Owen has left the building… it’s been a pleasure, a privilege and a 21 year association with a family I will cherish forever and never forget…”
However she did go on to tease Mel’s return straight away, leaving viewers a little bit of hope for the future.
She added: “TIL next time my beautiful cast and crew… you all rock.”
This is the first fans have heard about the exit of Mel, and did not take it well.
One fan replied to her tweet saying: “Mel will forever be one of my fave characters, she will be missed! You’re an amazing actress & I wish you all the best for the future.”
Another said: “Honestly going to miss you on screen so, so much.
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“You brought back my love for the show and watching your journey through the storylines you’ve tackled as an actress has been incredible.
“You’ll always be an absolute asset to that show. best wishes.”
With a third adding: “Tamzin, Thank you so much for reprising the role of Mel.
“It was such a nostalgic treat for us long term fans to see you back on the square and you absolutely did not disappoint. Best of luck for the future!”
Tamzin spent the day posting various images of her filming her last scenes on Instagram, leaving viewers a little emotional as well.
It is not yet clear whether Mel will be killed off or simply leave Walford willingly.
Either way, fans best expect an emotional end to the character’s long run on the show.
Most recently Mel saw her son, Hunter (played by Charlie Winter) shooting Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) in the Queen Vic.
But will Ben die from the wound, or will he survive and continue pursuing a relationship with Callum Highway (Tony Clay)?
EastEnders continues tomorrow at 8pm on BBC One.
