EastEnders Actor Danny Dyer Reveals the ‘Mad’ Reason He Quit

EastEnders Actor Danny Dyer has finally revealed the real reason he left the soap, which had nothing to do with career changes or new opportunities. The actor, best known for playing Mick Carter, admitted that a particular storyline that involved him and Janine Butcher in a major role played a crucial decision in his decision to walk away.

In 2022, Mick’s dramatic exit happened when we saw him caught in a high-speed car chase with Janine and his childhood love, Linda Carter. However, the chase eventually ended in disaster as all three plunged into the sea. While Linda and Janine survived, Mick was lost in the water and presumed dead. Fans had long speculated about why Danny chose to leave, but now, he has given a clear and unfiltered answer.

Danny Calls Mick’s Storyline ‘Mad’ On EastEnders

During an appearance on Rob Beckett’s Smart TV on Sky, Danny, 47, opened up about how Mick’s unexpected romance with Janine influenced his decision to leave. He said, “Mick’s got a kid with Janine, how mad is that?”. He then explained his frustration with the plot twist, saying, “That’s why I left, they f*ing put me with Janine”. Mick’s relationship with Janine was one of the most controversial storylines in the soap’s history.

Janine, known for her manipulative ways, tricked Mick into a relationship and framed Linda for drink-driving. Later, Mick slowly realised that Linda was his true love, but by then, the damage had already been done. In the final moments, we saw him trying to save Linda from drowning, only for himself to be swept away.

To make matters even more bizarre, after Mick’s disappearance, Janine was sentenced to prison, where she later gave birth to his child. The storyline left many fans confused, and Danny’s comments confirm that he was just as baffled by it as the audience.

Danny’s New Ventures

Danny had been a part of EastEnders for over eight years, and Mick Carter had become one of the show’s most beloved characters. As the landlord of Queen Vic, Mick was at the center of many major storylines. However, by the time of his departure, the direction of his character had shifted significantly.

Since leaving EastEnders, Danny has taken on a mix of new projects. One of his biggest roles has been in the Disney+ drama Rivals, where he plays Freddie. The show has been well received, but Danny has found the sudden praise for his acting amusing. He also revealed that he didn’t have much time to prepare for the role.

Danny joked that Rivals could have gone one of two ways—either people would love it, or they would just see “Danny Dyer in a wig.” Fortunately, the show turned out to be a success.

However, acting isn’t the only thing keeping Danny busy. He has also invested in a family-owned caravan park in Kent. Inspired by childhood trips with his father, Tony, Danny decided to get involved with the management team.

Unlike a passive investor, Danny has been hands-on at the park. He has been spotted working behind the bar, mowing the grass, and handling odd jobs. His daughter Dani, 28, has also joined him in this venture. Dani, who has three children, including twin daughters with West Ham footballer Jarrod Bowen, fully supports the project.

Although Danny has left EastEnders, he is busier than ever. We will have to wait for the upcoming EastEnders spoilers to see how Danny’s life takes a turn. Until then, stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more soap updates.