EastEnders fans were left heartbroken last week as Stacey Slater, played by long-time favourite Lacey Turner, made an emotional exit from Albert Square. The farewell brought tears, tension, and a surprise reunion with former flame Max Branning (Jake Wood).

When Max confessed that his old feelings had resurfaced, Stacey shut him down firmly, announcing that she was leaving Walford to start a new life in Brazil. While her daughter Lily (Lillia Turner) and baby Charli stayed behind, Stacey departed with Arthur and Hope — ending her latest chapter on a bittersweet note.

“I’ll Be Back in a Minute”

Fans fearing a permanent goodbye can breathe a sigh of relief. In a heartfelt farewell video shared on YouTube, Lacey Turner confirmed that Stacey’s story isn’t over just yet.

“I will be back in a minute,” she promised, smiling through the emotion of her final day on set. “Thank you, everyone. I am coming back, I won’t be long. I can’t do speeches but thank you. I love you all very much — it’s a very special place to work.”

Time for a Break — But Not Forever

Back in May, Turner revealed that she was stepping away from the BBC soap to focus on life beyond Walford. Speaking to The Sun, she explained, “It’s time for myself and Stacey to take a rest. Who knows what Stacey will get up to in her time away? Knowing her, it’ll never be boring.”

A spokesperson for EastEnders confirmed that her exit was only temporary, adding: “We’ll look forward to planning Stacey’s return when Lacey decides the time is right.”

Stacey’s Dramatic Year

Turner’s departure comes at the end of an explosive run for Stacey, including heartbreak, loss, and the fallout from EastEnders’ milestone 40th anniversary live episode — which saw the death of her beloved Martin Fowler (James Bye).

With the Slater family now running The Queen Vic, and daughter Lily still on the Square, there’s every reason to expect Stacey will walk through those famous market stalls again soon.

The Door Is Wide Open

For now, Stacey’s absence will leave a noticeable void in Walford — but her words have made it clear this isn’t the end. As Turner put it best, she’ll be back in a minute.