‘Real reason’ Brian Conley suddenly leaves EastEnders, revealed as bosses ‘fear more cast members could leave’
Brian Conley announced his shock departure from EastEnders four days ago and now reports have emerged about the real reason behind his sudden exit.
The 62-year-old actor, who plays Thomas ‘Rocky’ Cotton in the BBC soap, is said to have quit after cast members were denied pantomime roles next year.
Brian’s resignation has reportedly raised concerns that other cast members could also leave due to scheduling conflicts with the soap’s 40th anniversary filming.
Brian and other stars of the soap receive lucrative six-figure earnings from their pantomime roles, but show managers have asked them to choose between these gigs and a return to Albert Square in 2024.
The soap, which is gearing up for its milestone 40th anniversary celebration in February 2025, aims to start filming from November – in the middle of the pantomime season.
Shock: Brian Conley announced his shock departure from EastEnders four days ago and now reports have emerged about the real reason behind his sudden departure
Buttons: The actor, 62, who plays Thomas ‘Rocky’ Cotton in the BBC soap, is said to have quit after cast members were denied pantomime roles next year (pictured in 2014)
A TV insider said this The sun For such a huge milestone for the soap, bosses need all the cast members involved so they can tell the storyline in the best possible way and ensure ‘that level of drama for the audience’.
They added: ‘There is a real buzz around the anniversary and plans are already in the works to bring audiences some explosive storylines.
‘February filming usually takes place before Christmas, so for those wanting to do a five-week run, this would mean the show won’t be able to use them in their anniversary plans.’
An EastEnders source told MailOnline: ‘The EastEnders cast take part in panto every year, but in the run-up to our milestone 40th anniversary, all cast members have been asked to be involved for storyline purposes – we haven’t even received any complaints. everyone supported the plan.
‘As Brian Conley previously stated earlier this week, EastEnders fully supports Brian’s decision to leave at the end of his contract, and we wish him all the best for the future.’
MailOnline revealed earlier this week that the BBC supported Brian’s decision to leave, denying claims of a feud and that he had demanded to be written out of the show.
Brian also took to his Instagram grid to confirm the news and further refuted claims that there had been disagreements.
He said in a video on social media: ‘Hi, I’m Brian, aka Rocky from EastEnders. I’m just sending this message to all the fans. You may have heard reports that I’m leaving.
Words: Brian took to his Instagram grid this week to confirm the news that he was leaving and refute claims that there had been disagreements between himself and the BBC
Role: The actor, 62, has played Thomas ‘Rocky’ Cotton since May 2021, but is now moving on to new projects
“It was a difficult decision, but it is true that I am going, I made that decision for many reasons. It was tough because it’s such a great audience in front of and behind the cameras and I loved my three years there.
‘That is the truth. There are reports of me clashing and going on a rampage, but I don’t do that. I went to the Beeb with their blessings and I’m excited about the future and where it’s going, and I’m excited about Rocky leaving because it’s good!
‘So sending lots of love to all the EastEnders fans and plenty has been said!’
Brian first appeared as Tom ‘Rocky’ Cotton in May 2021, but is now embarking on a new tour entitled The 3rd Farewell Tour…To Date, delivering an evening of comedy, music and entertainment, starting on September 24th.
Brian’s representatives have been contacted by MailOnline for comment.