EastEnders spoilers: Masood Ahmed star Nitin Ganatra set for BBC soap exit

Masood (played by Nitin Ganatra) has become something of fan favourite on the BBC soap due to his comedic storylines and on-going spats with Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt).

However, later this year Nitin will be leaving EastEnders, although the door will be left open for a return.

It comes as the Arshad family is expanding on Albert Square.

The actor told Metro: ”When I was asked to return to EastEnders, it was always with the intention of helping set up new Asian characters that continue the Masood family adventures.

“With Arshad and Mariam at the helm and with the arrival of the feisty sister Iqra and Habiba, I can now venture off to new horizons as an actor.

“I am still deeply attached to Masood and have invested much emotion into making this character memorable. I am in awe of how loved he is by audiences and fans of all ages, from all cultures and religions and walks of life. Thank you. I am humbled by the love.

“I will of course miss EastEnders and the wonderful people that work tirelessly to bring audiences dramatic, funny and compelling stories.

“Who knows Masood may return. But for now farewell. Much love and respect to the whole epic team of EastEnders.”

Masood first came onto the soap back in 2007 before leaving in 2016, and returning full-time in 2018.

After his return last year, viewers have seen his feelings from Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) blossom, much to the disdain of his rival Ian.

However, the publication reports that his romance with Kathy will be part of his exit storyline.

In the past year, viewers have seen him welcome his aunt and uncle, Mariam (Indira Joshi) and Arshad (Madhav Sharma) onto the Square.

The Arshad family will be expanding this year as Masood’s nieces and Mariam and Arshad’s granddaughters come storming onto the scene.

Iqra will be played by Priya Davdra while Rukku Nahar is taking on the part of Habiba.

Masood will still be there for their arrival, as they set about deceiving their uncle.

The soap teased: “Defiant, smart and confident the sisters quickly make an impact on Walford.

“Eldest of the two, Iqra is no-nonsense, bold and intelligent and she arrives in Walford with a clear goal but she soon learns that life in the Square is never simple, especially when her sister is involved.

“Full of heart, the bubbly Habiba is full of the best intentions but trouble never seems to be too far behind but luckily for Habiba, neither is her sister who often has to clear up her sister’s mess.

“As soon as they arrive in Walford they are quick to spin their Uncle Masood a lie about why they’re there but as the girls settle into life at number 41 it soon becomes clear their arrival may not be all as it seems…”

Viewers will have to wait and see what kind of mayhem the girls cause when they arrive.

EastEnders continues Monday at 8pm on BBC One.

source: express.co.uk