Following the news that she is leaving EastEnders, actress Rose Ayling-Ellis has shared a photo from her final day on set.
Rose has played Frankie Lewis on the BBC show since 2020, making her the first deaf actor to play a regular deaf character.
Frankie will be leaving the show this autumn as part of a “important” new storyline, with Rose already filming her final scenes.
Rose shared a series of photos from EastEnders on Instagram, beginning with one from her last day on set and ending with the first photo of Frankie – with memories including her first successful pint in the Queen Vic included along the way.
“It’s been incredibly special to be the first regular deaf actor on @bbceastenders,” Rose wrote. “I’ve enjoyed my time on the show, and Frankie has been a fantastic character to play, but it feels like the right time to move on, and I’m excited and ready for new challenges.
“I will always remember my time on the show and all of the incredible people I’ve worked with who have helped me grow as an actor over the years.
two years and provided me with so many wonderful memories.”
Rose said she was “excited for viewers to see Frankie’s exit storyline,” adding, “I think it’s a really important one that will hit home for a lot of people.”
EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw also praised the actress, saying: “I’ve only had the pleasure of working with Rose for a short time, but she’s always been a tremendous asset to EastEnders – not just as a phenomenal actor, but also as an incredible company member.
“Rose has shone in important narratives as part of the Carter family, such as discovering she is Mick Carter’s daughter as a result of child abuse; and she will soon tackle the important issue of women’s safety on the streets.
“Everyone at EastEnders is incredibly proud of Rose’s achievements – she’s a true trailblazer, and we wish her every success.”