EASTENDERS - Shock as Carter member decides to leave show

I was shocked this morning, when it was confirmed that Johnny Carter will be leaving his family behind in Walford. 

The decision was actor, Sam Strike's own, and an EastEnders spokesman has said they are sad to see him leave, but wish him well:

"We can confirm that Sam is leaving EastEnders. We wish him all the best for the future." 

Sam also tweeted fans to confirm his news, saying:

'Thanks for all the love this year guys. Means the world. Decided to bow out. couldn't have done it without you all . thanks @bbceastenders. And of course tremendous love to my Carter family . True love.'

It hasn't been said how or why Johnny will end up departing the Square, but it's sure to break mum Linda's heart, when her 'little sausage' flies the nest for good. 

Johnny will be the second Carter to bow out, as it's also recently been revealed that Timothy West is leaving his role as Stan at the end of a terminal cancer storyline, which began last night, when Aunt Babe found out where Stan had secretly gone for the afternoon. 

It's going to be an explosive Carter Christmas, as Linda's rape horror will surely come to a head, and Mick gets revenge on Dean for hurting his wife. But will Linda go through with her abortion before the truth comes out? And if she doesn't, how will Mick feel about the fact the baby could be a result of Dean's attack? 

I'm have a niggling feeling that, should Linda keep the baby, it will turn out to be Mick's - hopefully helping her and her family move on after such a horrific ordeal. If anyone deserves a bit of happiness in soap at the moment it's Linda - who has beautifully been portrayed by Kellie Bright. 

What are your thought's on Johnny's departure and the Carter family's issues?

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