The news of Lacey Turner’s exit from EastEnders has sent shockwaves through the soap world, as one of Walford’s most iconic characters, Stacey Slater, prepares to bow out once again. Over the years, Stacey has been at the center of some of the most unforgettable storylines in EastEnders history. From her groundbreaking bipolar disorder storyline to tumultuous family sagas and romantic entanglements, Stacey has become an anchor of drama and authenticity on the Square. With Turner’s decision to step away from the soap, the big question now is: how will Stacey leave this time, and what impact will her departure have on the Slater family and Albert Square as a whole?

Stacey Slater first appeared in EastEnders in 2004, and it didn’t take long for her to become a central figure in the show. Introduced as the feisty cousin of Kat Slater, Stacey quickly carved out her own identity. While at first she was seen as fiery and rebellious, the layers of her character soon unfolded. Her relationship with her mother Jean, who battled bipolar disorder, gave viewers a glimpse into Stacey’s softer, more vulnerable side. This connection also paved the way for one of Stacey’s most celebrated storylines: her own bipolar diagnosis. Lacey Turner’s powerful and raw performance won her critical acclaim, industry awards, and the loyalty of fans who felt seen and represented by Stacey’s struggles.

One of Stacey’s most infamous arcs was the “Who Killed Archie?” storyline. In a shocking Christmas episode, it was revealed that Stacey was the one who had killed Archie Mitchell after years of manipulation, trauma, and conflict. This twist cemented her status as one of the most complex characters in the soap. Stacey wasn’t written as a straightforward heroine or villain; she was human, flawed, and capable of both extraordinary compassion and devastating mistakes. It was this balance that made viewers root for her even when she made questionable decisions.

Stacey’s relationships have also been some of the most memorable in EastEnders. Her romance with Bradley Branning remains one of the most beloved love stories in the show’s history, and his tragic death during the live episode in 2010 left both Stacey and fans heartbroken. Her later involvement with Max Branning in a scandalous affair added another layer of drama, ultimately shattering families and igniting fiery confrontations that viewers still recall vividly. More recently, her relationship with Martin Fowler has showcased both domestic happiness and devastating setbacks, as Stacey tried to balance love, motherhood, and her own mental health challenges.

The Slater family has always been central to Stacey’s life, and her departure will undoubtedly leave them reeling. Stacey has often been portrayed as the backbone of her chaotic yet loving family, stepping up for her children, her cousins, and her mother Jean when times got tough. Whether it was supporting Jean through her darkest moments, shielding her kids from difficult truths, or clashing with Kat over family loyalty, Stacey has always stood firm. Without her presence in Walford, the Slaters could face a period of instability, and fans are already speculating which family member will step up to fill the void.

Lacey Turner’s decision to leave EastEnders is not entirely unexpected. Over the years, she has taken breaks from the show to focus on other projects and her personal life, yet each time she has returned, fans welcomed her back with open arms. This time, however, the tone feels different. Reports suggest that Stacey’s departure is being written as a significant storyline, one that will give the character a memorable send-off. Writers are faced with the difficult task of crafting an exit that does justice to Stacey’s legacy without permanently closing the door, as Turner has left and returned before.

Speculation is rife about how Stacey will leave Walford. Some fans fear that Stacey could meet a tragic end, possibly in a shocking twist that would shake the Square for years to come. Others believe she might simply leave to start fresh elsewhere, perhaps seeking peace for herself and her children after years of turmoil. There are also theories that Stacey could become embroiled in a new conflict that forces her out of the community, keeping the door open for a future comeback. Whatever the case, her exit is bound to be dramatic, emotional, and unforgettable.

Stacey’s departure also raises questions about the future of other EastEnders characters. Jean Slater’s storylines have often been intertwined with Stacey’s, and without her daughter around, Jean could face fresh challenges. Martin Fowler, too, will have to cope with life without Stacey, whether that means heartbreak, resentment, or a determination to move on. Even Kat, whose relationship with Stacey has always been a mix of love and rivalry, will be affected deeply. The ripple effects of Stacey’s absence will likely shape Walford for months to come.

Fans’ reactions to the news have been overwhelmingly emotional. Many have taken to social media to express sadness, disbelief, and gratitude for Lacey Turner’s contribution to the soap. Stacey is more than just a character to many viewers; she has represented resilience, vulnerability, and the ability to survive despite immense hardship. For fans who have followed her journey for over two decades, watching her leave will be like saying goodbye to an old friend.

Lacey Turner herself has spoken warmly about her time on EastEnders, often crediting the show for giving her the opportunity to tell important stories and connect with audiences. Her talent and authenticity have made Stacey a standout character, and there’s little doubt that she will be remembered as one of the greats of Walford. Turner’s departure may leave a hole in the cast, but her legacy as Stacey Slater will remain strong for years to come.

As the countdown to Stacey’s exit begins, anticipation is building. Viewers are bracing themselves for emotional scenes, shocking twists, and heartfelt goodbyes. While it’s always difficult to say farewell to a beloved character, there is comfort in knowing that EastEnders has given Stacey a platform to shine for so long. Whether she leaves in heartbreak, triumph, or tragedy, one thing is certain: Stacey Slater’s departure will be remembered as a defining moment in soap history.

In the end, Stacey’s journey has been one of love, loss, struggle, and survival. She has embodied the highs and lows of life in Walford, showing audiences the beauty and pain of human experience. As Lacey Turner takes her final bow, fans will cherish the memories, celebrate her impact, and hold out hope that, one day, Stacey Slater might once again return to Albert Square.