Major EastEnders exit is confirmed as popular star set to leave BBC soap
Molly Rainford, who stars as Queen Vic barmaid Anna Knight in EastEnders, is set to depart the long-running BBC One soap later this year, it has been confirmed.
The 24-year-old actress and singer joined the show in 2023 as part of the new Knight family and has since become a fan favourite. Her character is the daughter of George Knight and Cindy Beale, and first appeared in the fictional Walford in June 2023.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed Rainford’s exit saying:
“We can confirm that Molly Rainford will be leaving EastEnders later this year, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
“Right Time to Say Goodbye”
An EastEnders insider told The Sun:
“Molly came into the show two years ago, and in that time has been trusted with some great storylines.
It’s just so happened that when Molly was considering other options in her career, a meeting was held to discuss the future of the character, and both parties were in mutual agreement that it was the right time for Anna Knight to wave goodbye to Walford.”
Rising Star Beyond the Square
Rainford first gained national attention as a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent in 2012, aged just 11. Her rendition of Beyoncé’s “Ave Maria” won her sixth place in the competition.
She later appeared in Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, finishing as runner-up alongside professional dancer Carlos Gu. Her success on Strictly helped launch her role in EastEnders the following year.
2025: A Year of Big Departures
Rainford’s departure is one of several major exits from EastEnders this year:
- Bobby Brazier is leaving after four years as Freddie Slater.
- Clair Norris recently exited the show after eight years as Bernie Taylor.
- Matthew James Morrison is also departing his role as Felix Baker.
- Natalie Cassidy, who played Sonia Fowler for 32 years, left the soap earlier this year in one of its most emotional storylines.
Cassidy said of her exit:
“It felt very final but also very good. It’s a nice place to leave Sonia after so much has happened to her.”
What’s Next for Molly?
While Rainford has yet to announce her next move, speculation is rife that she may return to music or pursue new acting roles in film or television.
