Woodyatt leaves 'EastEnders'

14-08-2006 13:34

'EastEnders' veteran Adam Woodyatt is leaving the show.

The 37-year-old, who plays businessman Ian Beale, is one of the only original cast members left - but he is reportedly fed up with his storylines and will not renew his contract.

A source revealed to Britain's Sunday Mirror newspaper: "Adam is totally fed up. Bosses are trying to keep it top secret and trying to talk him around, but he has made his mind up.

"He's not happy and doesn't want to be the last original character left on the show. After 21 years on the show he is tired of being the laughing stock of Walford and feels he deserves more respect."

Soap insiders have suggested the departure of Wendy Richards - who played Pauline Fowler for 21 years - sparked his decision because the pair are good friends.

This latest revelation has heightened the show's crisis - after a number of leading characters have quit and audience figures continue to plummet. Last month the show attracted just 3.9 million viewers - the lowest since it started back in 1985.

An 'EastEnders' spokesman has confirmed Woodyatt is in contract negotiations.