Lee Mead admits it is an "odd feeling" to have left 'Holby City', but he feels "so lucky" to have starred on the show.

Lee Mead

Lee Mead

The 38-year-old star bowed out of the BBC medical programme as Lofty Chiltern last night (17.12.19), and the actor was grateful for all the heartfelt messages he received following his exit.

He wrote on Twitter: "Reading all the tweets and messages from my last episode tonight. Bringing back some lovely memories of old episodes. Thank you. It's an odd feeling to be leaving Lofty behind as he and the show have been a big part of my life. Feel so lucky to have played him though. (sic)"

Lee was particularly taken with a message from one 'Holby' fan, who said Lee's portrayal of Lofty had inspired her to "get out" of a job in which she was "getting discriminated against for my many disabilities".

In response, the actor wrote: "This message means more to me than you know. That's amazing Abi."

Ahead of the ep, Lee admitted he had "mixed emotions" about Lofty departing, but said it has been an "absolute privilege" to have starred on the programme, and sister show 'Casualty'.

He tweeted: "Mixed emotions tonight. Last episode as Lofty. I have had the best five years on @BBCCasualty and @BBCHolbyCity. It's been an absolute privilege to have been a part of these shows working with some amazingly talented and kind people. Here's to the next chapter (sic)"

Lee's exit episode was extra special as there was a double 'Casualty' crossover when Lofty's pals Max Walker (Jamie Davis) and Robyn Miller (Amanda Henderson) appeared.

Confirming Lee's exit recently, Simon Harper, Executive Producer of 'Casualty' and 'Holby City', said: "The popularity of Lofty has seen Lee star successfully in both 'Casualty' and 'Holby City', a brilliant achievement.

"He has brought some of our warmest and most tender stories to life over the last couple years and off screen is about the sweetest, most humble guy you could ever hope to work with.

"His performance in the recent stillbirth and aftermath storyline is especially fine. Thank you so much Lee for lighting up the Holbyverse, we are all going to miss you terribly."

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