EastEnders has seen many unexpected departures over the years. Joe Swash, who used to play Mickey Miller on the soap, has opened up about his sudden exit. He left everyone in shock when he bid farewell to Walford in 2008.
The actor recently returned to the BBC soap when he hosted a 2023 special and the 40th anniversary EastEnders Revealed episodes. The actor recently spoke about his shocking exit. Here’s what he said. Keep reading to learn full details.
EastEnders’ Joe Swash Says, ‘It Was Devastating’
EastEnders former star Joe has finally spoken about how hard it was to say goodbye to the soap. In the recent episode of his reality series ‘Stacey & Joe’, he said that he played Mickey Miller till the date he was informed that they didn’t need him anymore. Joe further added that he was devastated to hear the news.
“I loved it. I wanted to be like Ian Beale,” he added. Further, he added that ‘his character was a lifer and in it for life if they wanted him.’ Swash also added that ‘because of the soap, he met his wife and had kids with her’. “It’s like that sliding doors moment,” Joe added.
Previously when he appeared on Dancing on Ice, he also spoke about his brief return to the soap. The soap star said that it was nice coming back because of the familiarity. “There’s something really comforting about that. I love that place and know it so well,” Swash said. Moving ahead, he also spoke about reprising his character to OK! Magazine.
Joe added that if the makers want him back, that will be something he will think about. He further added, “But I’ve got a big family, so it would have to suit me and all of us, ultimately.” Swash further spoke about how amazing all the directors, writers and bosses are. Everyone is amazing, he added.
Joe played Mickey Miller for five years and then surprised everyone when he exited the soap. His character left the Square as he was offered a job as concierge at the Cotswolds. His exit was indeed shocking, and his fans were sad to see him leaving. But we hope to see him on the soap back as Mickey someday soon. Till then, keep following Soap Opera Daily to never miss any EastEnders updates and spoilers.