why is stacey leaving eastenders

Stacey Slater is leaving EastEnders to take a break and start a new life in Brazil, after being invited to live with her brother Sean. The departure storyline includes Stacey struggling with grief after losing her husband Martin Fowler, and the move to Brazil is portrayed as a fresh start that she needs. Despite some emotional and dramatic moments, including seeing her former flame Max Branning again and a potential showdown involving family tensions, Stacey ultimately decides to leave Walford and catch her flight to Brazil. However, her daughter Lily later decides not to go with her, encouraging Stacey to go alone. The actress Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey, explained that this break is necessary both for her character and herself after a busy time, including recently having her third child. This departure is described as a pause rather than a full exit, with possibilities for Stacey's return in the future.