EastEnders Star Sophie Khan Levy Announces Pregnancy Alongside Character's Departure

EastEnders actress Sophie Khan Levy, 37, announced she is pregnant as her character, Priya Nandra-Hart, made her permanent exit from the BBC soap opera on Tuesday night.

In a farewell video shared by the show, a visibly pregnant Levy showcased her baby bump. "I just wanted to say a massive thank you to all of the fans and viewers of the show," Levy told the cast and crew. "I’ve been so proud and happy to be part of this family for three years. I can't believe I have to leave, but I do because there's something coming imminently."

Levy, who joined the soap in 2023, expressed surprise at how quickly time had passed. "I can’t believe it’s already been three years, it doesn’t feel like that long. And it also feels like forever," she said. "Thank you for having me and let’s see… watch this space. Who knows if Priya will make a return?"

Fans shared their sadness at her departure, with comments expressing disbelief and wishing her well. "Wait why's she leaving?!" one viewer asked, while another wrote, "She's left for good? Did not see this coming. Can't believe today's scenes were her last. Best of luck to Sophie. Hope she comes back in the future though because I love Priya."

Levy has not previously shared news of her pregnancy or revealed her partner's identity.

Within the soap's narrative, Priya Nandra-Hart was involved in a months-long affair with Max Branning, played by Jake Wood, which led to her pregnancy. Cindy Beale, portrayed by Michelle Collins, discovered a hidden DNA test confirming Branning as the father of the unborn child. Beale then blackmailed Priya, the estranged ex-partner of Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara), into leaving Albert Square.

Priya rejected an offer of help from Ravi to raise their son and departed for Leeds to start anew.