EastEnders has confirmed the exit of newcomer Roland Manookian, after just 18 months on the soap. The actor, who plays Teddy Mitchell, first arrived in Walford last summer when he was revealed to be the half-brother of Billy Mitchell.

Following the dramatic reunion, Teddy permanently moved to the Square with his two sons, Harry and Barney, and made a fast enemy of his cousin Phil by pursuing a romance with Sharon Watts.

Despite appearing more refined than his extended family, Teddy’s ‘Mitchell side’ became apparent when he and Harry burnt down the Panesars’ call centre after Ravi Gulati endangered Barney’s life.

In recent weeks, Teddy has been dragged into a drug storyline after Harry and Kojo Asare became indebted to Ravi and his criminal associates. In an attempt to save Kojo, Harry fatally injured drug dealer Okie, with Teddy deciding to take the blame for the death.

An EastEnders spokesperson has verified Manookian’s imminent departure in a statement, telling Digital Spy: “We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Teddy’s fate has been left hanging in the balance ever since he confessed to Harry’s crime. But upcoming episodes will reveal his future as he faces judgement in court.

Could his surprising exit indicate a lengthy prison sentence for the devoted father?

Meanwhile, back in Walford, the aftermath of Okie’s death has been resting heavily on Harry’s shoulders and he has been turning to drugs to ease his guilt.

With his dad facing life in prison for his crime, the mechanic has a breakdown and admits the truth to a horrified George Knight. Despite George’s insistence, Nicola manages to stop her son from handing himself into the police.

However, the outcome of Teddy’s trial leaves the Mitchells reeling, causing the whole family to fall apart. Will Nicola be able to protect both of her boys from their latest tragedy?