Chris Clenshaw has announced his departure as the executive producer of after a three-year tenure at the helm of the iconic soap. Before bowing out of Walford, Clenshaw will take charge of the soap’s highly-anticipated 40th anniversary episodes, which are set to broadcast live in a dramatic celebration.
Reflecting on his exit from the show, Clenshaw expressed his sentiments: “As a proud fan, it has been the honour of my life to be its custodian. It has meant everything to me, and I’ve given Walford my all.”
He further elaborated on his decision: “I made the tough decision that I would step down after the 40th anniversary many months ago to keep creatively refreshed as it’s a show that needs to constantly evolve.
“After what will be three years at the helm and leading the team through its milestone celebrations, the time feels right that I hand over the keys to The Queen Vic.”
Clenshaw also shared his emotional connection with the show, saying, “Elstree holds a special place in my heart, and I know when the day comes, it’ll be hard to tear myself away.
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Chris Clenshaw will leave his role at EastEnders in February (Image: BBC)
“My special thanks go to the sensational cast and crew that I’m incredibly proud to have led over the past few years, and who have provided me with unwavering support.
“Their commitment, passion and talent has inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them and proud of everything that we’ve achieved together.”, reports .
He remarked: ” has been the highlight of my career and I have loved every minute of it, but it’s time for change, and for a new chapter, and I’m delighted to be staying within Studios Drama Productions. Although my departure from is not for some time yet, whilst I’m still here, I look forward to putting all our efforts into our momentous anniversary.”
On the topic of his successor, Clenshaw stated: “I’m pleased to be passing the show on to Ben Wadey. I’m confident that, under him, will continue to thrive, and I wish him the very best as it is without doubt the best job in telly and I hope he enjoys the ride just as much as I have. Thank you, for everything.”
Clenshaw brought The Six storyline to life (Image: BBC)
Clenshaw embarked on his journey with in 2015 as a storyliner, quickly climbing the ranks to script edit and story produce. After a four-year stint, he departed to join Holby City.
In 2020, Clenshaw ventured away from the to explore development roles at Vertigo Films and Rope Ladder Fiction, only to make a comeback to in January 2022 as Executive Producer.
Throughout his three-year tenure, Clenshaw has been at the helm of groundbreaking storylines and tackled significant issues, cementing his legacy in lore. Notable achievements include the critically acclaimed ‘Loving and Losing Lola’ storyline, the suspenseful ‘The Six’ flashforward mystery, and orchestrating the dramatic return of Cindy Beale.
Chris Clenshaw quit his EastEnders role after three years (Image: ITV)
Under Clenshaw’s direction, witnessed history with the Knights, the first Black and dual heritage family to take the helm at a soap pub, with Colin Salmon leading the ensemble. He also orchestrated the return of beloved characters by reaching out to alumni like Adam Woodyatt, Michelle Collins, Jacqueline Jossa, Shane Richie, Angela Wynter, and Patsy Palmer.
Post-, Clenshaw will continue lending his talents to Studios Drama Productions, making room for Ben Wadey to reclaim his spot at Albert Square following his tenure at Channel 4.
With an impressive track record, Wadey shaped narratives as Commissioning Executive for Hollyoaks and penned fresh sagas including Generation Z and the upcoming James Graham piece, Brian and Margaret.
His previous stint at saw him forge unforgettable narratives for the 35th anniversary and sculpt a special instalment highlighting Linda Carter’s battle with addiction.
Ben Wadey will replace EastEnders boss Chris Clenshaw (Image: BBC)
Wadey’s knack for introducing compelling families was evident as he masterminded the entrance of the Panesar clan, under the iron-clad rule of matriarch Suki.
In his Holby City chapter, as story producer for the BAFTA-lauded concluding series, he bid adieu to icon Jac Naylor while orchestrating a reunion of cherished faces.
Taking the reins once more as ‘ Executive Producer, Ben Wadey declares: “I’m thrilled to be returning to at such an exciting time for the show.”
“Having grown up watching and loving , it sparked my passion for television, and I feel I’ve known the residents of Walford my entire life so to lead this iconic soap into its next chapter is a ‘true’ privilege.”
He further stated: “I can’t wait to collaborate with the exceptional team at and build on Chris Clenshaw’s brilliant work to deliver unmissable stories to fans – both those who have been watching for years and those just discovering Albert Square.”