Zack Morris has revealed why he has quit EastEnders after five years, ahead of his final scenes airing later this month.
The actor, 23, has played Keegan Baker on the BBC soap opera since 2017, with the role having earned him numerous award nominations during his several years on the show.
It was however announced earlier this year that Zack had decided to quit the show, with him explaining to fans in a statement at the time that it had been a "tough decision."
He expressed gratitude over the role, though didn't reveal his reason for leaving the show - which comes just months after the departure of his on-screen wife Maisie Smith, 20.
Zack has however opened up about why he decided to leave EastEnders, revealing in a recent interview with Metro that it was to pursue other opportunities in his career.
He described the show as "the best place to really learn the craft," but explained that he wants to try new roles, though he may be open to returning sometime in the future.
"I am going to try and go for gold, take every opportunity I can get. Trying new characters, reading new scripts – just broadening my horizon and testing myself," he commented.
Do you enjoy reading about celebrities? Sign up for all the best celeb news from the Mirror here .
The actor described himself as "hungry" to pursue new opportunities following his departure, with him adding: "It's not about the show itself, it's about me as a person."
Discussing if he'd be open to reprising his role on the soap later in his career, Zack suggested it's possible. He however stated: "But right now, the new opportunities are my focus."
His final scenes are set to air later this month, with on-screen wife Maisie - who played Tiffany Butcher - said to have returned for a one-off episode to coincide with this.
Announcing his departure last month, Zack had said: "This show has quite frankly changed my life for the better. It will always hold a real loving place in my heart."
He said that much "hard work" goes into making the show, with him later adding that he had learned "invaluable lesson" that will "stay with [him] for the rest of [his] life."
Zack further commented in his statement at the time: "I will forever see this whole experience as the biggest blessing I could have ever asked for. I loved every second."
EastEnders continues Monday from 7.30pm on BBC One.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct 0207 29 33033.
