Eastenders: Whitney Dean actress Shona Mcgarty is due to leave but how does it happen?

Virgin Radio

4 Aug 2023, 11:29

Whitney Dean actress Shona Mcgarty will leave Eastenders but what do the writers plan do about her exit? Here are some of the best theories.

In a stunning announcement that has left EastEnders fans reeling, the talented actress Shona McGarty, known for her unforgettable portrayal of Whitney Dean, is bidding farewell to the iconic soap after an incredible 15-year run.

Whitney Dean, oh boy, she's been through the wringer!

From being homeless and facing abuse to heartbreak and near-death experiences, she might just be the most ill-fated soap character in history.

And this year alone, she endured the devastating loss of her unborn child Peach, who had Edward’s Syndrome, and grappled with her partner Zack's HIV diagnosis.

Shona McGarty's portrayal of Whitney has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Her very first episode in EastEnders saw her homeless with her family, who were having to take drastic actions to get a roof over their heads and food on the table.

Worse was to come when it emerged she was being groomed and abused by her stepfather Tony.

In the years that followed, Whitney was targeted by a violent pimp, had her marriage to Lee Carter break down, was jailed after fighting back and killing her stalker, and discovered that her fiancé Callum had cheated on her with Ben Mitchell.

Oh, and let's not forget the infamous incident where she was flattened by a double-decker bus!

But what about her final storyline and episodes? Will she be in for another wave of tragedy, or will EastEnders buck the trend and give her a happy ending?

Here are the leading theories.

A career in show business :

EastEnders tapped into Shona's dazzling singing talent for a captivating storyline, where Whitney aspired to pursue a singing career.

Her on-screen performances left fellow characters and fans completely spellbound. However, as is the norm for Whitney, things didn't quite pan out as planned, and the singing venture fizzled out.

But now, there's a golden chance to revisit this plotline.

Whitney might just get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embark on a musical tour, finally giving her a reason to break into a smile for a change.

Family Reunion:

Hold on to your hats, because a heartwarming family reunion might be in the cards!

As Tiffany recently departed and with her mum Bianca still out there, Whitney has a chance to rekindle connections with her loved ones.

And hey, wouldn't it be incredible if Maisie Smith and Patsy Palmer made some surprise comebacks too?

A Fresh Start:

There doesn’t necessarily have to be a dramatic reason for Whitney to want to up sticks and leave – like Shona, she could decide she wants to spread her wings.

Maybe she wants to travel the world, or is offered an exciting new job.

Maybe she just wants a break from the area that has been so bad to her.

Time to shake off the bad memories and take life into her own hands.

It also leaves that door firmly open for a comeback in the future.

Devastating Split:

Storm clouds are gathering over Whitney and Zack's relationship in EastEnders, and it's anything but smooth sailing.

Their love has been put to the test numerous times this year, and with the news of Whitney's departure, it appears that their romance might be doomed.

The issue at hand is their conflicting opinions on whether to try for a baby again, and it's causing serious problems.

While Whitney firmly believes that she cannot endure the emotional toll after the heartbreak of losing Peach, Zack remains eager to become a father.

The possibility of a breakup looms large, and it could unfold in various ways.

If it were to happen now, an amicable split might be on the cards, with both of them acknowledging that it's just not meant to be.

However, in true soap opera fashion, there's always room for some dramatic twists and turns along the way.

Tensions may escalate as they find themselves torn apart by their differing visions of the future. Could the reappearance of Sam lure a brooding Zack away from Whitney?

With so much at stake, it seems that there is only one foreseeable outcome for this couple.

A Tragic End:

EastEnders has never shied away from shocking its viewers with major character deaths, and the recent loss of Lola served as a somber reminder of this.

As Christmas approaches, the anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most significant moments on TV this year.

Given the ongoing theme of trauma surrounding Whitney, some speculate that her fate might take a heartbreaking turn.

Could she meet her untimely demise in a heart-wrenching storyline that leaves those she leaves behind reeling? It would undoubtedly be a daring and polarizing move, especially considering Shona McGarty's popularity and her hope for a potential return in the future.

But in the world of soap operas, nothing can be ruled out.

However, some argue that such a fate would be too cruel, even for EastEnders.

Whitney has endured countless hardships and overcome immense challenges, making her a beloved character among fans.

To end her young life in such a tragic manner might be a step too far for many viewers.

As we prepare to bid adieu to Shona McGarty's remarkable talent, we'll be left with a Whitney Dean-shaped hole in our hearts.

Her final scenes will be broadcast early next year when her contract is due to run out. It remains to be seen how Whitney’s exit will unfold, but producers are sure to be working on something special.

Speaking about her exit, Shona told The Sun on Sunday: ‘I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving EastEnders. I have loved my years in the show.’

A source also told The Sun that Shona is ‘gutted’ to be leaving and will be ‘sorely missed’ by her co-stars after ‘growing up on set with most of them’. ‘But she feels like now is the right time in her life to step away and try something new,’ they added.

For now, let's raise a glass to Shona and toast to her exciting new adventures beyond the world of EastEnders! All the best, Shona, you've left an indelible mark on Walford!