It has been announced that Tamzin Outhwaite, who plays Melanie Owen is to quit her role in EastEnders.
Tamzin said EastEnders had given her career "a wonderful start" but she had run out of steam and needed new challenges.
The actress is thought to have clinched a £2 million "golden handcuffs" deal to keep her at the BBC.
"Tamzin has created one of the most-loved characters and, with Martin Kemp as screen husband Steve Owen, one half of the most-admired on-screen couple in EastEnders since the show started," said executive producer John Yorke.
"She has been fantastic to work with and we wish her all the luck in her career.
"No doubt she may take on the mantle of Mel in the future as we'd welcome her return at any time."
