BBC EastEnders boss quits soap as fans left devastated by exit: 'Actually scared'

In a statement, Clenshaw said: "I made the tough decision that I would step down after the 40th anniversary many months ago – to keep EastEnders creatively refreshed as it's a show that needs to constantly evolve."

He added: "After what will be three years at the helm and leading the team through its milestone celebrations, the time feels right that I hand over the keys to The Queen Vic."

Clenshaw will remain in his position until the anniversary celebrations, which are set to include a live episode with an interactive element.

During his tenure, Clenshaw oversaw several critically acclaimed storylines, including the award-winning "Loving and Losing Lola" story and the thrilling saga involving The Six.

He also orchestrated the return of fan-favourite Cindy Beale after a 25-year absence.

Under Clenshaw's leadership, EastEnders won numerous accolades, including Best Soap and Continuing Drama at the Royal Television Society Awards.

The show also secured seven awards at this year's Radio Times Awards and every public-nominated award at last year's British Soap and National Television Awards.

Clenshaw introduced the Knights, the first Black and dual heritage family to run a pub on any UK soap. He also brought back beloved characters such as Adam Woodyatt, Michelle Collins, and Jacqueline Jossa.

Notable episodes during his time included the Platinum Jubilee special, the 1979 Mitchell's Flashback, and Dot Cotton's funeral.

Responding to the news, fans expressed their concerns about the future of the soap. Taking to X, one wrote: "Chris Clenshaw has been one of the most consistently brilliant producers across any soap that I can ever recall - he got everyone talking about #EastEnders again! What he's done for the show will have a lasting impact and I can't think of anyone better to oversee the 40th."

"EastEnders - everyone’s talking about it. And that’s been down to Chris Clenshaw for the past three years," another penned.

"No…….this is tooo tragic @chris_clenshaw you did the show the greatest service by getting rid of Mick and the storylines, the comebacks… It’s all been brilliant whoever comes next big shoes #Eastenders," a third commented.

Someone else shared: "Chris Clenshaw pulled the show up from a very dark time, I’m praying we don’t go back there. I’m actually scared and devastated #EastEnders."

"Gutted. Chris Clenshaw has proved himself to be one of the best show bosses to helm #EastEnders. He really loves and knows the soap and he'll be tough to follow," another added. (sic)

Ben Wadey, currently Commissioning Editor at Channel 4, will take over as EastEnders' new executive producer. Wadey is no stranger to Albert Square, having previously worked on the show as a story editor.

Wadey expressed his excitement about returning to EastEnders, stating: "Having grown up watching and loving EastEnders, it sparked my passion for television, and I feel I've known the residents of Walford my entire life."

He added: "I can't wait to collaborate with the exceptional team at EastEnders and build on Chris Clenshaw's brilliant work to deliver unmissable stories to fans."

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Wadey's experience also includes working as Story Producer for the BAFTA-nominated final series of Holby City.

BBC executives have praised Clenshaw's work and welcomed Wadey to the role.

Lindsay Salt, Director of Drama at the BBC, said: "Chris' commitment, creativity and pure love for EastEnders has ensured that the show remains at the top of its game as he has created some truly fantastic storylines which will go down in EastEnders history."

She added: "We are thrilled that Chris will be leading EastEnders through its 40th anniversary as his ambition for the momentous occasion is set to be another iconic moment for the show."

Kate Oates, Head of Drama Productions at BBC Studios, commented: "Chris has had – and is still enjoying – a brilliant tenure at EastEnders. He's achieved a skilful balance: combining his own deep love and understanding of the show and its rich history, with character-led stories that exemplify modern soap."

Oates also expressed confidence in Wadey's appointment, describing him as the "worthiest successor to this fantastic era".