‘We've been acting opposite tennis balls'

The EastEnders star says farewell to Albert Square after 15 years…

- RICHARD ARNOLD

Max Branning is off! What do you reckon you’ll miss most about him?

It’s been life-changing. Amber was just a year old when I started and Buster wasn’t even born yet. It’s allowed us to do so much as a family. I’ll always be thankful to Max Branning and never thought I’d be there that long. It’s been fantastic fun. Now it’s time to let it all fall away and it’s going to take a long time. Not going back to work in January was weird, but change is good. I’m going to let the dust settle.

I guess you weren’t able to have a leaving do from EastEnders?

Yeah, that was a bit strange – I sort of slunk out. My last scene was with Steve McFadden, which I was really pleased about, then I walked out, said goodbye to the guy on the studio gate and that was it. It’s the times we’re living in. But I’ve known I was leaving since the summer, so there was time to have all the conversations. Everyone knows how much I love them.

This latest lockdown has been worse for many of us. How have you got through it with the family?

Focusing on the little things. We’ve taken stock of how lucky we are and we’re grateful for what we have. The kids are homeschooling, which has its challenges, but I left work in mid-December so I’m really glad I’m around. Amber is 15, Buster is nearly 13, and anyone with kids will know that it’s tough to keep them going. It’s very strange for them. I’m 48 now and I think it’s easier to put things in perspective when you’re older. It’s heartbreaking to watch them go through it, but I’m grateful that I can be around to help and support them. I’m happy to be home at the moment.