Walford disciples are going to be deprived of their long-awaited Kat and Alfie reunion.
One of Eastenders most popular actors confirmed in an interview they would not be returning to the square.
Rumours were circulating for a while earlier this year that as Jessie Wallace is set to reprise her role as Kat Moon, she would likely bring Shane Ritchie's character, Alfie, with her.
Unfortunately, in a nightmare interview that will pain the ears of Enders fans across the country, Ritchie has ruled out a return, saying he needs to "take a break from showbiz."
Speaking on Radio City, as part of their 24 hour mental health broadcast, he said: "I’m in a fortunate position where I can pick and choose what I want to do and EastEnders at the moment I said no to it.
“I just need to take a break from television and a little break away from showbiz.
“Trust me, it’s not because I’ve got loads of money because that is far from the truth. But I just need to pick and choose.”
So Kat will be left to terrorise residents of Albert Square on her own.
Jessie Wallace confirmed her own return by sharing a picture of her character's infamous ‘bling’ necklace, adding the caption: "I'm home
#EastEnders."
https://twitter.com/JessieWallaceUK/status/951442220716052480
It is understood she will be coming back to Walford alongside Mo Harris and Jean Slater, but no Alfie.
The couple were last seen in the EastEnders spin-off
Redwater.
Speaking about reprising the role, Jessie has previously said: "I am thrilled to be returning to EastEnders next year and knowing what John Yorke has in store for the Slaters is incredibly exciting.
"I love Kat and Walford dearly and I cannot wait to get started – watch out Walford, Kat's coming home."
All will no doubt be revealed in the coming months, but for now fans were just happy to know Kat was back.
https://twitter.com/megandavies2710/status/951475637281271808
https://twitter.com/laurenT1c/status/951457414653542407
https://twitter.com/Rainy_Daysi/status/951454398714208256
https://twitter.com/xxLinziWrightxx/status/951550072466149376
