An EastEnders icon has confirmed their departure from the BBC One soap.
Dean Wicks, portrayed by Matt Di Angelo, first graced our screens in 2006 and quickly became a fan favourite until his initial exit in 2008. In 2014, Dean made a dramatic return, this time as one of the show's most notorious villains.
Fans will remember his horrific actions, including raping Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) and attempting to do the same to Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simmons). Dean exited the show for the second time in 2016, but seven years later he made a shocking comeback, much to Linda's dismay.
He wasted no time in making her life miserable once again. He also played a significant role in The Six storyline leading up to Christmas.
READ MORE: EastEnders Masood's affair with Jane which ended his marriage to Zainab [SOAP]
After Linda murdered Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters) on Christmas Day, the rest of The Six ladies helped conceal the crime by burying his body under the cafe.
However, in true soap opera style, Keanu's body was eventually discovered. In an attempt to avoid detection, the women framed Dean, who was subsequently imprisoned.
Furthermore, upcoming spoilers reveal that Dean will soon face trial for a murder he did not commit. However, it seems that Dean's time on the show is drawing to a close.
READ MORE:
EastEnders icon 'definitely returning' as soap airs twist fans didn't expect [SOAP]
BBC EastEnders confirms major comeback of 'beloved rogue' [SOAP]
EastEnders icon Bianca Jackson's return 'exposed' as fans spot 'major clue' [SOAP]
In a recent interview, actor Matt Di Angelo confirmed his departure from the soap, at least for the time being. Speaking to The Sun, he revealed: "I know the result of the trial, because we've filmed it already. I can tell you - but I won't because it would ruin the television."
The actor then likened his role as villain Dean to the World Cup, expressing that he could "handle a bit of him every six years or so, and then after a week you're like, 'OK enough of this'."
Matt further disclosed that Dean would "not" be returning "back to the square" for revenge, should the truth about his set-up emerge.
He also hinted at a significant twist that even took him by surprise. Matt stated: "There was a twist at the end of it that sort of surprised me." He concluded: "Yeah, it is what it is. I've done my trial and yeah that's it. The end is now."
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
