As viewers await the fall-out of ’ explosive 40th-anniversary live episode, Express.co.uk looks back at one of the most shocking moments of 2012.
The beloved soap has been on screens since 1985. Along with a revolving door of characters, it has had gripping storylines, unexpected deaths, and tumultuous scenes within Albert Square.
Many fans will remember Heather Trott (played by Cheryl Fergison) as the jolly George Michael-obsessed cleaner who sparked an unlikely bond with the fierce Shirley Carter (Linda Henry).
Sadly the fun-loving character’s span of Albert Square was cut short after she was murdered by Ben Mitchell (Joshua Pascoe).
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Fergison opened up about what went on after her final scene and the dramatic effect her controversial exit had on her other cast members.
Read more: [SOAPS]
Cheryl Fergison starred as Heather Trott on EastEnders (Image: BBC)
Reflecting on her last day, the actress shared: “It was funny because there was no mention of a party before I left.
“In fact, there was a rule when I was there that you only get a party if you’ve been there for over five years, and I’d been there just shy of five, so I assumed I wouldn’t get one.”
Fergison recalled: “But after my final scene, I was really upset. All I wanted to do was jump in the car with Linda [Henry] and head back to hers for a cup of tea, have a chat, or maybe even have a cry.
“But Linda was nowhere to be seen—she was so upset when she found out I was leaving that she even threatened to leave herself. Luckily, I managed to calm her down, and she decided to stay.”
Don’t miss… [REACTION]
Heather Trott was killed by Ben Mitchell in 2012 (Image: BBC)
Speaking via , Fergison continued: “On my last day, she’d gone off, and I was trying to find her. That’s when I remember Perry Fenwick, who plays Billy, and Steve McFadden, who plays Phil. They kept telling me we should all go down to the pub for a drink.
“They were so adamant that I should come with them, and eventually, they persuaded me. “Perry told me to hop into a van, which I did. He drove me round the block and came back into the bar, told me to get out — and that’s when I realised they’d thrown me a party.
“The most amazing part was that Pam St. Clement and Barbara Windsor — both of whom had already been written out of the show — came back for my farewell.”
“I was so touched. Two legends had come back just to say their goodbyes to Heather. It truly melted my heart,” the star concluded.