EastEnders viewers were left heartbroken on Tuesday night (October 28) as it was revealed Sharon Watts was leaving our screens once more, just weeks after her much-anticipated return.
The long-running BBC soap stunned fans as Sharon, played by Letitia Dean, revealed she was heading back to Florida to stay with her sister Michelle following a devastating betrayal. Her exit comes after the shocking revelation that Zoe Slater had lied about giving birth to Sharon’s late husband Dennis Rickman’s children.
Sharon only made her return to Albert Square in September, after several months away in the US. She came back to reconnect with friends and family and was shocked to discover that Zoe Slater had also returned, and was claiming that Dennis was the father of her children.
Still grieving Dennis, Sharon was initially horrified by the claim but ultimately agreed to help Zoe find her ‘missing son,’ even funding a private investigator to support the search. What Sharon didn’t know, however, was that Zoe’s heartbreaking story was completely fabricated.
The truth came out this week during a tense quiz night at The Queen Vic, when Kat Slater accidentally let slip that Zoe’s baby revelation was a lie. The moment sent shockwaves through Walford, with Vicki Fowler and Ian Beale both furious that Sharon had been manipulated once again.
‘It’s like Denny has died all over again’
In Tuesday’s episode, Sharon’s absence was quickly noticed when Vicki phoned her, only to learn that her sister was devastated and had decided not to return to Walford. Speaking to Zack Hudson, Vicki revealed that Sharon had chosen to fly back to Florida to stay with Michelle.
‘She won’t come back,’ Vicki said solemnly. ‘I seriously think this has tipped her over the edge. She is in bits. It’s like Denny has died all over again.’
The episode ended with Vicki warning Zoe that Sharon would eventually get her revenge, but many fans were more concerned about whether this might mark the end of Sharon’s time in Walford for good.
Is Sharon leaving for good?
Letitia Dean’s absence has already sparked speculation among viewers, as this is the second time this year Sharon has departed Albert Square. The fan-favourite character briefly left earlier in 2024 after the emotional 40th anniversary episodes, in which she mourned the death of close friend Martin Fowler.
When she returned last month, Sharon’s life was in turmoil once again following her failed relationship with Teddy Mitchell and her brief rekindled affair with Grant Mitchell. Many hoped her latest comeback would set up a new chapter for the iconic character, but instead, she has exited again after just a handful of episodes.
At the time of writing, neither Letitia Dean nor the BBC has confirmed whether this latest departure is permanent or simply another short break from filming. The actress previously took a temporary hiatus earlier this year before returning in September.
Fans heartbroken over another sudden exit
As Sharon’s departure played out on screen, fans flooded social media to share their disappointment and concern for both the character and actress. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their frustration at her sudden off-screen exit.
‘The fact Sharon only returned a few weeks ago and she’s already gone off-screen again #EastEnders.’
‘What on EARTH is going on with Sharon Watts. She completed 9 episodes since coming back after a 5 month break and she’s gone again in another hastily written exit. Worried for her. #EastEnders.’
‘Whatever is going on with Letitia Dean I hope she is well and I’m sending her all my love ❤️.’
‘Bringing Sharon back for 2 weeks just to send her off again and not come back – something is definitely going on I hope Letitia is ok 😢 #EastEnders.’
‘Sharon’s just come back and has already left the square #EastEnders.’
‘Sharon going to Florida, another 6 month break is upon us I fear.’
The emotional reactions highlight just how beloved Sharon Watts remains nearly four decades after her first appearance in EastEnders. Since her debut in 1985, the character has become one of the show’s most iconic figures, surviving countless heartbreaks, betrayals, and dramatic departures.
What comes next for Sharon?
For now, fans are left in limbo over whether Sharon’s departure is a temporary storyline decision or a sign that Letitia Dean is taking another extended break. Given the show’s history of bringing Sharon back for major storylines, many are hopeful this won’t be the last they see of her.
Whatever happens next, her exit has once again left a Sharon-shaped hole in Albert Square, and fans are desperate for answers.
