Shane Ritchie quits EastEnders!

Digital Spy have confirmed reports that Shane Ritchie is quitting EastEnders. First thing this morning, there were strong rumours that Ritchie would quit his role as Alfie Moon but it was not confirmed until this afternoon! I'm shocked! Shane Ritchie is one of the biggest stars of EastEnders and his character drastically improved the BBC soap. I'm starting to get fed up of characters leaving, returning, possibly returning to EastEnders - the cast is everywhere and a complete & utter mess! I wonder how he'll leave? I think his departure will leave a huge gap in the cast, but do you think his departure will be noticed with the confirmed returns of Kat, Peggy, Phil, Dennis and Sharon? But that's the thing - Kat is about to return and Alfie is now going to leave - WHY?

I know this should be in the EastEnders discussion thread but I think this deserves its own thread! What does any fellow EastEnders fans think of this news
:

From Digital Spy
The BBC today categorically denied any rift with EastEnders actor Shane Richie, who plays Alfie Moon.

It follows an allegation in a Sunday newspaper that there is an ongoing issue between Richie and BBC chiefs.

An EastEnders spokesman told DS today: "Shane Richie will be leaving EastEnders at the end of the year, but the door will be left open for his return."

Richie's contract with the BBC soap expires at the end of the year and one of the first projects he is expected to work on is the BBC drama, Scrooge, which should hit our screens in early 2006.

Oh No (!)

What a pitty! Im weeping as we speak

He is a terrible actor anyway, he slurs every line!

There is only one word I would like to say on this matter:-

GOOD

So how will we avoid him now. Stay with EE Shane - that way no one has to watch you!

It's reported his contract is up in November, so I guess his exit will probably be the main Christmas storyline (not that EE have storylines!).

He hasn't quit has he? This is old news, it was reported ages ago that he would be taking a year out but he said that he won't be leaving for good, and in that article it doesn't say he will be gone for good. It may not confirm that he will be returning but in newspaper reports he said he would return.