Jamie Borthwick will not return to EastEnders after 19 years on the long-running soap, BBC Studios confirmed, following his suspension earlier this year after a video emerged of him using a disabled slur.
A spokesperson for BBC Studios said: "We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders. We do not comment on individual matters." Borthwick, 31, had played the character Jay Brown on the show for almost two decades.
The decision follows the public circulation of a video earlier this year in which Borthwick is reported to have used a derogatory term for disabled people while involved in rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing last year. Media reports said the clip showed the actor making the remark backstage during rehearsals alongside performer Wynne Evans, who could be heard reacting with "Oh my God." The exact wording has been reported in outlets with partial censorship.
Borthwick was suspended from EastEnders when the footage was shared; rumours circulated in recent months that he might return to Albert Square. BBC Studios' statement closing the matter marks a definitive end to his role on the program.
Daily Mail reported the development and said it had contacted representatives for both Borthwick and EastEnders. The broadcaster did not provide further comment beyond the confirmation that he will not be returning.
EastEnders, produced by BBC Studios, has faced previous controversies over cast conduct and language, and the decision to remove a long-standing cast member underscores the broadcaster's handling of incidents that attract public scrutiny. Borthwick joined the soap as a child and became a regular presence on the series, appearing in storylines across nearly two decades.
The actor's departure comes amid continuing public debate about language, disability and accountability in the entertainment industry. BBC Studios' brief statement offers confirmation of the casting decision but no additional details about contractual or storyline implications for EastEnders.
Representatives for Borthwick and for EastEnders had been approached for comment, according to media reports, but no further statements were released at the time of publication.