EastEnders legend announces their first role away from Walford after quitting BBC soap

AN EastEnders legend has announced their very first acting role away from the soap.

Shona McGarty shocked Beeb viewers when she announced she had quit after 15 years of playing Whitney Dean.

BBC

An EastEnders legend has announced their very first acting role away from the soap[/caption]

BBC

Shona McGarty is set to star in Orchard West theatre’s Beauty and the Beast this December[/caption]

Her decision to leave EastEnders comes amid a cast shake-up by bosses.

With Shona’s exit due to air on television early next year, she is preparing to film her final scenes.

And now the 32-year-old has revealed her brand new gig – which is world’s away from Albert Square.

She is set to star in Orchard West theatre’s Beauty and the Beast this December.

Shona has bagged the lead role and transform into the character of Belle for the musical.

The Sun on Sunday exclusively revealed Shona’s exit from EastEnders.

Speaking at the time, she said: “I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving EastEnders. I have loved my years in the show.

“I have been trusted with some incredible storylines and have made amazing friendships — and family — which will endure.”

Shona’s exit from the soap is still being kept under wraps for now.

Lorraine Stanley, 47 — who plays launderette worker Karen Taylor — being written out after joining Albert Square seven years ago.

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Shona has bagged the lead role and transform into the character of Belle for the musical[/caption]