Brian Conley's EastEnders character Ricky Cotton will feature in a storyline that could be the beginning of the end of his time in Albert Square – after the actor confirmed he was leaving the show.
Rocky, who is married to Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) on the show, is set to start making money in questionable ways again in next week's episodes.
The couple recently married and are facing financial troubles after paying off Rocky's ex-wife Jo, who claimed Rocky had committed bigamy and blackmailed them.
Things are likely to keep getting worse when it comes to his money issues as it looks like Brian's character develops a gambling addiction.
Kathy begins questioning where his share of loan repayments in her account is and he lies to her, saying wages haven't been done by Jay Brown.
He's then seen making his way to the gambling shop to desperately try and win the money back. His friend Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman), who comes along to the shop with him, is completely unaware of the trouble he is in.
It only starts to dawn on Harvey that his friend could be in trouble when he sees him going to the betting shop again. But Rocky tells him he's fine and later goes off to the bookies again, secretly.
Later, Dorian (Luke J Smith), tells Rocky to bet on the boxing night, saying that he will rake in the cash if he does – but he says no. It seems Rocky can't escape temptation though, and goes off to place a bet during a night at The Vic.
While it's not yet clear if his gambling addiction is his last Albert Square storyline, it's likely to at least be a contributing factor in his departure.
In September, Brian revealed that he'd be leaving his role as Rocky after three years- but denied 'clashes' with BBC bosses were the reason he was leaving.
Rocky is the half brother of "Nasty" Nick Cotton, who is Dot's son. Speaking about his decision to leave, Brian took to Instagram, saying: "Hello lovely people its me Brian Conley aka Rocky, sending out this message especially to all the EastEnders fans.
"Now you may have heard reports that I am leaving EastEnders, and it was a tough decision but it is true – I am going, and I made the decision for many reasons.
"It is tough because there’s such a wonderful crowd in front of the camera and behind, and I loved my three years there.
"I have gone with their blessings at the Beeb and I am excited for the future and where it’s going to go. I’m also excited about Rocky’s exit as I know it’s good! Sending much love, all EastEnders fans, enough said."
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