EastEnders fans baffled by major flaw in Jay’s abrupt exit storyline

EastEnders fans have taken to social media to express their thoughts on Jay Brown’s (Jamie Borthwick) very abrupt exit story.

Jamie, who is 31, was initially suspended from the show last year for using a disabled slur after almost twenty years in the role as a result of being caught on camera using the derogatory phrase while describing the people of Blackpool when on the set of Strictly Come Dancing.

BBC bosses issued a statement shortly afterwards, in which they called his comments ‘entirely unacceptable’.

They later told Metro: ‘We have robust processes in place for this,’ while admonishing what Jamie said as being: ‘in no way reflects the values or standards [they] hold and expect at the BBC.’

Jamie told the Sun at the time: I accept the karma that has come my way due to some bad choices.’ He later issued an official statement, in which he said: ‘I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.

‘I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely.

‘Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong. When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment. Again, that is no excuse. But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views or who I am.

‘I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself. The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers, and cast members.

‘I know they will be again for this year’s show and those in years to come.’

Although viewers believed that Jamie would return following his suspension, a spokesperson for BBC Studios later confirmed to Metro that ‘Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders’, adding: ‘we do not comment on individual matters.’

Jay’s exit was initially explained towards the end of 2025 when it was revealed he had gone to stay with his unwell Granddad.

Over Christmas, Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown), Jay’s stepdaughter, learnt that he wasn’t coming back for the festive period as he had started a relationship with a woman called Elayna.

There was further upset for Lexi this week, as she discovered Jay is now expecting a baby with Elayna.

While this storyline has unfolded to facilitate Jamie’s departure, fans cannot help but express their thoughts on how Jay’s exit isn’t like him at all.

Over on X, this user wrote: ‘Eastenders have done jays character dirty, nice he’s becoming a dad but they are acting like he’s left Lexi #eastenders’.

Debbie said: ‘Giving Jay this whole life off screen is so sad. He wouldn’t have left Lexi or moved on from Lola so quickly #EastEnders.’

Another fan simply wrote: ‘Bring Jay back!’, while this audience member wondered: ‘Wouldn’t Jay tell Lexi in person about engagement and baby #EastEnders’.

Jamie Borthwick is still yet to comment on his exit.

Comments Add as preferred source