[Callum]

EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood is leaving the soap, it has been announced.

The show's boss will stand down from his position next month after two years in charge. EastEnders' experienced series producer Lorraine Newman will then take over his role on an acting basis.

Kirkwood commented: "Being the executive producer of EastEnders is one of the most exciting jobs in TV, but it's also the most exhausting - so after two years, I've decided it's time to leave Walford.

"It's been a thrill to work with such talented people such as John Yorke, Simon Ashdown and our amazing cast and crew. Most of all it's been a privilege to tell stories that have genuinely had the nation talking. I'm going to take with me some brilliant friends and memories."

He continued: "I'm delighted to leave the show in the capable hands of Lorraine Newman. Lorraine has been by my side every step of the way for the last two years and knows EastEnders inside out. I wish her and the show every future success."


Since joining EastEnders in early 2010, Kirkwood's decisions have included bringing back Kat and Alfie Moon as regulars, signing up the Wicks brothers for their recent guest appearances, and introducing a number of new characters, including Cora Cross and Moon trio Michael, Tyler and Anthony.

Ronnie and Kat's baby swap, Whitney's sexual exploitation, the dramatic Queen Vic fire and Pat's emotional exit are among the major storylines which have appeared on screen during his stint at the top.

EastEnders has also enjoyed significant awards success in the past two years, including winning the top soap prizes at the BAFTA, RTS, NTA and British Soap Award ceremonies in 2011.

John Yorke, BBC Controller of Drama Production and New Talent, commented: "I would like to thank Bryan for his extraordinary hard work, a chest full of awards and some great storylines. It's been a pleasure working with him and I wish him every success for the future."

The news I'm sure most EastEnders fans will be pleased to hear.

[bbfan1991]

I do like Bryan but this is for the best, loved his work at Hollyoaks though. Shame it did not work for him at EastEnders but I want the show back at top form and hopefully now lots of changes will be made to try and acheive that!

[Scarlett.]

Looks like they got rid of him in a hurry

[Me. I Am Salman]

Couldn't you post this in the EastEnders thread?

[Me. I Am Salman]

But great news nevertheless

[Scarlett.]

There's a soap section for a reason ^

[Maia]

Excellent news

[waterhog]

i see someone else has started a thread on this - i wrote this last night on seeing it on a message board < helayouaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

close the door on the way out Brian

you need a holiday,
Brian we will book you a flight,
its to the yellow planet,
so that you find some light.
what ever you studied,
it has been a complete waste,
because what ever your future holds,
it wont rid this awful taste.
you seem to be teen infatuated,
maybe it is a little confession,
because you failed at getting younger viewers,
and you have given the nation depression.
also with the Masood's,
who once i did adore,
you over played them in there story lines,
which means no more can i endure.
Ben is a disaster,
someone must have given you a leak,
you have done one good thing in killing Heather,
which will in-turn write out the Ben freak.
please Brian when you go,
enjoy the champaign that's juicy,
i am sure the BBC can escort you,
BOGOF and make sure with you is the terrible new Lucy.
never have eastenders been this bad,
i would attach this to your P45 if i could,
you have solely destroyed Easenders,
and i don't think you should ever work again Bryan Kirkwood.


(hi everyone - i have emailed EE with my poem to show how unhappy i am with EE at prsent - it really has gone down hill and it may seem nasty blaming Bryan but the buck has to stop somewhere and that is what he is paid for - i hope he makes the most of it - because i can not see him working ever again . we only get things changed in this country if we complain - and we are very reserved at doing this - so i give you my permission to say you are me lol (joe ) and send your poem
through this webpage http://www.bbc.co.uk/feedback/?ref=/eastenders/

[Callum]

Originally Posted by Salman!

Couldn't you post this in the EastEnders thread?

No I couldn't. It's a major news story. If you've got a problem with this thread report it to the mods.

[waterhog]

i have no problem - ask jesus chriest lol

[Redway]

Good. This guy has absolutely destroyed EastEnders within the past year or so. Kathleen Beedles is leaving, too.

[Patrick]

Fantastic.

Seems like just yesterday I was reading the article on here when Diedreick left and Kirkwood took over, it's brilliant that he's finally ******ing off and taking the hint that none of us want him encharge.

[Marsh.]

Got rid of him just in time for Sharon's return. Coincidence? I think not. He'd probably do a Kat and make her completely unlikeable or unrecognisable.

Although, I'm really hesitant about what's left to do with Sharon anyway.

[waterhog]

lrtd face it - sharron is no longer a teen and she is unlkely to fall in love with ant or his goof brother - but it can not go any more down hill can it