What We Do Know:
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Gillian Wright’s Departure After Eight Years (as of 2013):
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Gillian Wright portrayed Jean Slater in EastEnders starting in December 2004. Her departure—after roughly eight years—was announced in July 2013. She described it as “a huge privilege” and hoped the exit wasn’t permanent, saying “not goodbye, but au revoir.” BBC+1.
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Pauline Fowler – A True “21-Year Legend”:
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Actress Wendy Richard played Pauline Fowler from the very first episode in February 1985 until December 2006, spanning 21 years and 10 months—making her one of EastEnders’ most iconic and enduring original characters. Wikipedia.
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Industry voices called Pauline “like glue,” binding many characters and storylines together—an “absolute legend” who seemed so integral to the show that viewers “just assumed she would be there forever.” Wikipedia.
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There’s no record of Gillian Wright specifically praising Pauline Fowler (or any other long-serving cast member) when Gillian announced her own exit.
Summary
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Gillian Wright left EastEnders after eight years in 2013, expressing gratitude for playing Jean Slater and hoping to return. BBC+1
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Pauline Fowler, played by Wendy Richard, is the EastEnders character most associated with a 21-year tenure, widely considered a legend of the show.
