EastEnders actor Shane Richie has cleared up recent reports that he'll be leaving the BBC One soap for good, instead claiming that he's simply taking a break from Walford alongside on-screen wife Kat (Jessie Wallace), paving the way for a spinoff show featuring the popular couple.
That drama will be a six-part series seeing the duo embark on a brand new life in Ireland after fixing their troubled relationship. Production begins on the show this autumn ahead of broadcast next year.
It was recently discovered by viewers that Kat has a secret son, and at least one more big twist is expected to air for the couple before they go to Ireland.
Meanwhile, Shane has been filming for BBC One daytime series Moving On alongside former Coronation Street actress Julie Jesmondhalgh.
Tagged in Eastenders Shane Richie