Rose Ayling-Ellis has confirmed she is quitting EastEnders after playing the role of Frankie Lewis for two years.
The 27-year-old joined the show in 2020 and is the first deaf actor to play a regular deaf character on the BBC soap.
During her time, she has been at the centre of some of EastEnders’ biggest storylines, including the discovery that she is the daughter of Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), who unknowingly fathered her after he was abused as a child by her mother.
“It’s been incredibly special to be EastEnders’ first regular deaf actor,” said Ayling-Ellis.
“I have loved my time on the show and Frankie has been such an awesome character to play. However, now feels like the right time for me to move on, and I am excited and ready for new challenges.
“I will always treasure my time on the show and all the incredible people I have worked with, who have supported my growth as an actor these past two years and given me so many amazing memories. I am excited for viewers to see Frankie’s exit storyline; I think it’s a really important one that will hit home for lots of people.”
EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: “I have only had the pleasure to work with Rose for a short time but she has always been an incredible asset to EastEnders – not just as a phenomenal actor, but as an amazing company member, too.
“As part of the Carter family, Rose has shone in important narratives, such as discovering she’s Mick Carter’s daughter as a result of child abuse; and she will soon tackle the important issue highlighting women’s safety on the streets.
“We at EastEnders are incredibly proud of everything Rose has achieved – she’s a real trailblazer, and we wish her every success.”
Away from Walford, Ayling-Ellis won the 2021 series of Strictly Come Dancing with professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice.
She also recently helped launch the first Barbie doll featuring a hearing aid.
