EastEnders star Molly Rainford, known for her role as Anna Knight, has announced she is leaving the BBC soap after two years. The BBC has extended their best wishes to her for the future.
Another exit from EastEnders is looming, as a star prepares to leave the BBC soap after a two-year run. Anna Knight will be departing Walford, with actress Molly Rainford confirmed to be exiting the show later this year. A BBC spokesperson has verified the news, though the exact timing of her final scenes has yet to be revealed.
Sources say Molly’s departure was a mutual decision between her and the show’s producers, following the arrival of new Executive Producer Ben Wadey. Molly is reportedly keen to pursue new projects, while details about Anna’s exit storyline remain under wraps for now.
The BBC told the Mirror: “We can confirm that Molly Rainford will be departing EastEnders later this year, and we wish her every success in the future.”
Some of Anna’s most memorable storylines include her being spiked, the revelation that she is Cindy Beale’s daughter, and her involvement in a love triangle with Bobby Beale and Freddie Slater.
A source told The Sun that Molly’s exit is linked to new Executive Producer Ben Wadey’s wide-ranging changes on the show, which aligned with Molly’s own desire to explore new opportunities.
“She’s incredibly talented and eager to pursue new opportunities.”
Molly’s character, Anna, became part of the Knight family in 2023, joining her father George, sister Gina, and stepmother Elaine Peacock. The family took over The Queen Vic, where it was later revealed that Anna is Cindy’s secret daughter.
Anna’s love interest, Freddie, played by Bobby Brazier, is also set to leave the show, though it’s unclear if they will exit together. Additionally, cousins Bernadette Taylor and Felix Baker, portrayed by Clair Norris and Matthew James Morrison, will also be departing.
An insider revealed about Molly: “Molly joined the show two years ago and has been given some excellent storylines during her time.
“As Molly started considering other career opportunities, a meeting was held to discuss the direction of her character, and it was mutually decided that it was the right moment for Anna Knight to say goodbye to Walford.”
Clair’s exit was also reported by the same source. A recent insider told The Sun: “When a new executive producer takes charge, they often want to bring in their own changes — it’s nothing personal. Bernie’s departure has been planned for some time, so it wasn’t a surprise to Clair.
“She was the last of the Taylors, and it’s time to close that chapter and allow Clair to explore other opportunities.”
Another source added to the publication that “characters need to leave for new storylines to begin,” but reassured that Clair will be greatly missed.
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