Lorraine Stanley left her role as Karen Taylor in EastEnders in 2024, and she has now revealed why she has no plans to go back.
Karen first hit our screens in 2017 as the matriarch of the rowdy Taylor family.
During her time in Albert Square, she was involved in some huge storylines, including the tragic death of daughter Chantelle and the kidnapping of Albie Watts.
After seven years on our screens, Karen fled to Spain after stealing ransom money from Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden).
However, she returned briefly following the murder of Keanu Taylor, determined to get to the bottom of his disappearance.
Now, actress Lorraine has ruled out a return to EastEnders for now, and she has a valid reason.
‘They didn’t kill me off,’ she pointed out to The Mirror. ‘But right now, I wouldn’t. I’m enjoying [my daughter] Nancy.
‘On EastEnders, I missed a lot of milestones. Now I’m like her personal taxi driver for skateboarding, piano lessons – and I love it.’
She hasn’t entirely put her career on hold though, as she revealed that she is happy with how things are at the moment.
‘I’ve gone for a few auditions. I haven’t got anything yet, but I will. And if I don’t, I don’t mind that either. I’m so happy being a mum.’
Ruling out an appearance on reality TV, Lorraine also shared her passion for theatre, revealing one career goal she’d love to achieve.
‘I love acting, theatre especially, so I want to try and keep on that path.
‘I’d love a role at the National Theatre. That’s where I started my career, so it would be a nice full-circle moment.’
