[Marsh.]

That's so true though.

They are the last characters to be introduced that actually became huge and drew big audiences with their storylines (granted within their first 4 years).

That was 10 years ago now, who has the show introduced since then that could be considered a good replacement?

It was one thing axing characters in the past as there was always the next "generation" of new characters picking up the mantle. But EE has had a huge problem creating new ones the last few years. The Carter's at a push, but their initial potential was squandered with some piss poor storytelling and quitting actors.

The Masood's (also introduced in 2007) are now extinct, Denise and Shirley are 2006 characters. Ian, Michelle, Sharon etc are originals.
The show has a serious lack of new blood. Killing R&R has only added to the problem.