OVER AND OUT
EastEnders fans break down in tears and pay emotional tributes to star after sudden soap exit
The actor's storyline was short, emotional and very impactful to viewers during his time on EastEnders.
EASTENDERS fans have been left heartbroken after a character that significantly impacted them departed the soap.
Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty), Zack Hudson (James Farrar) and their foster child Ashton (Jensen Clayden) recently parted ways in tear-jerking farewell scenes.
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Ashton’s arrival on Albert Square breathed life back into Whitney and made him quickly become a fan favourite, but his stint unfortunately, didn’t last long, and fans have mourned the young character's exit.
Arriving just before Christmas kicked off, Ashton became an early festive present and the first foster child for aspiring parents Whitney and Zack.
Following his impactful exit from the square, fans took to X(Twitter) to wish the budding actor goodbye as one penned: “Bye, Ashton”, with a GIF of a child waving goodbye and crying.
A second wrote: “Whitney and Zack having a shared hug with Ashton was so wholesome.”
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A third typed: “Whitney & Zack saying goodbye to Ashton.”
Jensen’s parents also posted to his social media account: “Had an absolute blast @bbceastenders Loved every minute with my on-screen foster parents and the rest of the amazing EastEnders cast.”
One user replied to the post and praised: “You were absolutely brilliant.”
Another added: “Great work, @JensenClayden you’re a fine actor and wonderful young man. Keep on keepin’ on, little brother.”
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A third commended him and said: “Well done, little fella, you did a wonderful job and brought the story of so many foster children to life. You should be so proud of yourself!”
A fourth followed: “It was a short but very sweet visit. You did brilliantly, Jensen and I wish you all the best for the future. I do hope that you will return at some point.”
Throughout his short time on the well-loved BBC show, Ashton struggled with building a relationship with Zack and Whitney initially, but gradually, he became fond of them as time passed.
Shortly after they started to make a connection, the doting couple received news that social services had found a permanent home for Ashton, meaning they would be ripped out of each other's lives.
In distressing final scenes, Whitney and Zack revealed the news to Ashton, and not long after that, they had to see him off.
As he left the square, the couple promised never to forget him while giving him a huge hug.
Following Ashton’s exit, Whitney and Zack discovered that she was pregnant and after much hesitation decided to keep the baby and keep it a shot, even though Whitney was terrified and cautious of getting pregnant again after she lost her first pregnancy.
Eastenders is on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on Weekdays.
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