EastEnders viewers still holding on for Karen Taylor’s return may not like what Lorraine Stanley just shared. The beloved actor finally revealed where she stands after walking away from Walford in 2024. She admitted she’s not planning a return right now, and honestly, she seems pretty at peace with that. Her focus has shifted to something else entirely. And it’s deeply personal. Keep scrolling to know more.
EastEnders’ Lorraine Chooses Family Over Fame
Karen Taylor was loud, fierce, loyal and impossible to forget. But Lorraine has left her behind, at least for now. She said working on the BBC soap meant missing key years with her daughter, and that was painful. “I missed so many milestones,” she said.
So now, she’s making every moment count with nine-year-old Nancy. Skateboarding runs, piano lessons, school pickups, she’s there for all of it. And she’s smiling through it all. When asked about a comeback, Lorraine didn’t completely rule it out. “They didn’t kill me off,” she laughed. But she added that she’s not interested at the moment. She wants to be present for her daughter. She has recently attended auditions, hoping to secure new roles. But she’s not putting pressure on herself. If nothing happens, she says that’s fine. Being a mum is what’s filling her heart now.
She Is Planning A New Chapter.
Lorraine’s last episode aired in June 2024, when Karen came back from Spain for Keanu’s funeral. Karen believed Dean Wicks was responsible. She had no idea Linda Carter was the real killer. Bernie encouraged her to leave Walford again, this time for the sake of her mental health. She agreed, and that’s how Karen’s story quietly closed for now.
In real life, Lorraine’s got something else on her mind. She’s marrying her longtime partner, Mark Perez, in Hertfordshire, with a proper church ceremony. The reception will be simple and warm, with a teepee, a barbecue, and a pub celebration. Their daughter Nancy will be the flower girl.
And yes, Danny Walters is one of the guests. Lorraine may be off-screen for now, but she’s living fully. In her words, she finally feels free. Whether she returns or not, she’s already won hearts far beyond Walford. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, follow Soap Opera Daily.