EastEnders star Clair Norris has responded to the news that her on-screen mum will be leaving the BBC soap.
It was announced back in July that Lorraine Stanley’s character Karen Taylor is being written out of the soap as bosses look to freshen up the cast.
Her exit will be particularly emotional for Clair, who has starred as Karen’s daughter Bernie since 2017.
Speaking to Digital Spy at the recent Inside Soap awards, Clair said: “Lou and Karen has been the core of the Taylor family so it’s going to be very strange. I haven’t processed it yet but I love her so much – she is my mum on screen and off screen.
“We’re going to miss her. But we’re excited for her – I can’t wait to see what she does next.”
The soap star also teased that there will be “a lot of drama” ahead for Bernie as she attempts to navigate life without her mum on the Square.
Clair also discussed Bernie’s new job working in the café, saying she’s “enjoyed” being able to “cross with so many more characters”.
“I’ve been in [work] a lot more – I’ve been doing a lot more! A lot more gossiping, which is nice to play. It’s a different side to Bernie. We’re seeing a comical side, which is nice to play,” she continued.
As for if the soap star is eager for Bernie to find a new girlfriend, she said: “This is always a question every year! It would be lovely to see Bernie fall in love.
“I think she’s playing how it is in real life – you don’t find someone straight away, you date around, you have highs and lows. It’d be nice to see her settle down one day, but she is only 21 so she needs to live her life first.”
