EastEnders fans beg bosses to bring Julie back after unexpected exit
EastEnders fans are hoping bosses for the BBC One soap will bring back an iconic character following her exit this week.
Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) returned to Walford last year as part of Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) dementia storyline.
Nigel initially kept Julie in the dark about his diagnosis, believing he was protecting her from what he was going through, but she subsequently arrived and proved to be the rock Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) needed amid his vow to be by Nige’s side until the very end.
Julie and Phil said goodbye to Nigel last month.
This week, Nigel’s loved ones gathered for his funeral. It saw the return of his daughter Clare (Gemma Bissix) and also Julie’s son Josh (Jon Lee).
The next day, Julie read the letter that Nigel had written prior to his dementia symptoms taking hold. She discovered that Nigel had left her funds to fulfil their dream of going to India.
‘I want you to go to India’, he wrote. ‘And to live for me. Thank you for being my wife. You were my world. I love you. Be happy.’
Fighting tears, Phil reached out to hug and console overwhelmed Julie, offering to take her to the Vic to celebrate the big news. Julie accompanied him to the pub but, as she heard everyone talk about the prospect of arranging a farewell party for her, she quietly slipped out, leaving Phil a goodbye note at his home.
Phil raced to the Tube, hoping to catch Julie before she departed. Fortunately, he arrived on time. Julie thanked him for everything he did for her and for Nigel, remarking how he took great care of them both.
The pair, forever bonded by their grief, shared a hug, parting on the best of terms as Julie urged Phil to look to the future in the name of their beloved Nige.
Fans of the soap have now taken to social media platform X following a very emotional week in Albert Square. After Julie’s departure, plenty shared messages hoping it won’t be long until they see her again.
Gareth wrote: ‘The fact Julie never got a Julia’s theme holds slight hope that she may be back’.
Tasha added: ‘Karen Henthorn take a bow, she’s been amazing as Julie, she will be missed’.
Meanwhile, Shawn said: ‘A nice but understated exit for Julie. If this is the last time we see her, it’s a good way to end the character.’
‘Nooo Julie can’t leave!’, Kelly shared, expressing her upset.
Dan added: ‘I hope Julie comes back. She works so well on the show’.
David echoed the thoughts: ‘What do you mean ar Julie is leaving EastEnders??’.
