on 16 april 2013, it was announced that venn was leaving the show, with ray making his final appearance in may, as producers had decided to write him out. venn stated: "working on "eastenders" has been one of my career highlights and an invaluable experience. i couldn't have asked for a better team to work with and have found a lifelong friend in my on-screen partner tameka [empson]. i want to thank everyone who supported me on the show."