'EastEnders' star: 'Ronnie needs time alone'

EastEnders star Scott Maslen has suggested that Ronnie Branning's forthcoming departure from Albert Square is the best move for the troubled character's state of mind.

Ronnie, who has been at the centre of the controversial baby swap storyline, will be leaving Walford later this year as Samantha Womack has decided to take a break from the role. Exact details of how she bows out are currently being kept under wraps.

Speaking to Digital Spy on the red carpet at the British Soap Awards, Maslen said of Ronnie's future: "I think she needs to go away - she needs herself to go away. As much as Jack wants to keep her out and Roxy wants to keep her out, I think Ronnie needs to go away.

"She needs time to deal with the issues - all the stuff, not just James but all the stories that have gone on prior to that. I think she actually wants to be left alone to deal with it."

Discussing the next move for Jack, the 'Sexiest Male' winner continued: "There are a lot of stories to come - I know that, I've had a conversation, but I'm just focusing on Sam going at the moment. It's going to be quite dark, because he's lost everything. We're going to see Jack maybe at his weakest."

Maslen also hinted that Ronnie will continue to be Jack's true love even after her departure.

He said: "Ronnie is the light of his life, so I should imagine whatever happens, if Ronnie shows up there'll be some type of soaptastic storyline!"

The British Soap Awards air tomorrow night at 8pm on ITV1.

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Watch our full interview with Scott Maslen in the video below: