The beloved character has been struggling after the death of her ex-husband Martin Fowler (James Bye) in the aftermath of the Queen Vic explosion last month.

The former couple had an emotional reunion in his final moments, promising to spend the rest of their lives together.

With preparations for Martin’s funeral now underway, Jean has encouraged her daughter to take some time away from the Square, suggesting she visit her brother Sean Slater (Rob Kazinsky).

While initially reluctant, Stacey eventually agreed and made her on-screen departure in the latest episode of the BBC soap as she left in the back of a cab – although, we should probably mention that we didn’t actually see Stacey in her own exit scenes.

Actress Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey, is currently on maternity leave from EastEnders after giving birth to her third child back in January.

At present, it is unclear how bosses intend to write her character out on a more permanent basis to accommodate the rest of Lacey’s maternity leave.