In a bittersweet development that’s left fans both surprised and emotional, EastEnders has officially confirmed the departure of another major character, as one of Walford’s most dynamic and beloved stars exits after two years on the show. The character in question? Zack Hudson, played by James Farrar, who made his debut in 2023 and quickly became a fan favourite for his complex storylines, charming personality, and emotionally layered performance.
Zack’s journey in Albert Square has been anything but quiet. Arriving as Sharon Watts’ long-lost half-brother, he was introduced with a mix of mystery and swagger—instantly making waves with his flirtatious energy, deep family trauma, and an emotional HIV-positive storyline that was widely praised for its sensitivity and realism. Over the past two years, Zack has formed strong bonds with key residents, including Sharon, Martin, and Whitney, and his relationship with Whitney Dean became one of the show’s most compelling and emotionally charged romances.
But now, the time has come for Zack to say goodbye. According to EastEnders insiders, Zack’s exit is part of a “natural progression” for the character after his final emotional arc—one that sees him confronting his deepest fears, making peace with his past, and stepping into a new future beyond Walford.
The news of his departure comes just as Zack and Whitney face another heartbreaking turning point. After losing their baby Peach and enduring the grief that nearly tore them apart, they’ve both struggled to find solid ground. Just weeks ago, they rekindled their relationship, with fans hoping for a much-deserved happily-ever-after. But behind the scenes, Zack has been quietly applying for work abroad with a youth mentoring program in Spain—wanting to use his experiences to help other young people navigate the trauma of loss, health challenges, and abandonment.
In upcoming episodes, Zack reveals his decision to Whitney in a deeply emotional scene set in the Queen Vic’s back garden, where he first confessed his diagnosis to her over a year ago. As he speaks from the heart about his desire to do something meaningful with his life, Whitney is torn between her love for him and the knowledge that she can’t follow—not yet, not after everything they’ve endured in Walford. “I’ll never stop loving you,” she tells him through tears. “But maybe now… it’s time we start loving ourselves, too.”
The farewell storyline promises heartfelt goodbyes, surprise callbacks, and a powerful final moment between Zack and Sharon, who—despite their often rocky sibling dynamic—has been one of his strongest supporters. In their last scene together, Sharon hands Zack a photograph of their father, Gavin, torn in half and taped back together. “You came here broken, but you didn’t stay that way,” she tells him. “Go fix something in the world now. Just promise you’ll write.”
The final episode for Zack will air next month, featuring a montage of his memories on the Square—from wild nights at Ruby’s to quiet moments with Whitney and deep, vulnerable conversations with Martin and Sonia. His departure will leave a noticeable void, not just in the cast, but in the community of Walford, where he grew from a chaotic outsider into a man of strength, compassion, and integrity.
James Farrar shared a heartfelt message with fans following the announcement:
“These last two years on EastEnders have meant more to me than I can explain. Playing Zack Hudson has been the most rewarding challenge, and I’m deeply grateful to the writers, cast, and especially the viewers for going on this journey with me. While I’m excited for what’s next, a part of me will always remain in Walford.”
Fans have taken to social media to express their emotions, with hashtags like #GoodbyeZack and #EastEndersExit trending across the UK. Some are devastated, while others see it as a fitting and empowering end to a transformative storyline.
While the door is reportedly being “left open” for a potential return, showrunners have confirmed that Zack’s exit marks the end of a significant chapter in EastEnders‘ current era. Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw commented:
“James has delivered some truly unforgettable performances. Zack’s story was one of redemption, vulnerability, and emotional truth, and we’re incredibly proud of everything he’s brought to the show.”
As the Square prepares to say farewell, one thing is certain: Zack Hudson’s time in Walford may be coming to a close, but his legacy—of honesty, growth, and hard-won redemption—will not be forgotten anytime soon.
