End in sight for the Slaters

Albert Square's most explosive family could be ditched from EastEnders, the Daily Star reports.

10:35 05 January 2005

Albert Square's most explosive family could be ditched from EastEnders, the Daily Star reports.

The Slaters have been part of some of the soap's most dramatic storylines, including Zoe's love triangle with Sharon and Dennis, Little Mo's double rape and Kat's exploits with Andy and Alfie.

But insiders suggest that this overload of stories has left BBC bosses with few ideas for the fiery family and as such they may face the axe.

"Nothing is set in stone but the current feeling is that the Slaters are ripe for culling," a senior BBC executive told the newspaper.

"They have had so many storylines, their possibilities for the future are almost exhausted.

"Contracts are up for renewal in early summer. Some members of the family will most certainly be part of the impending cull."

Battleaxe gran Mo, played by Laila Morse, 59, and dad Charlie, played by Derek Martin, 61, are among those likely to go.

Little Mo, played by Kacey Ainsworth, 34, who has faced constant troubles since her arrival in the Square, may also be given a new life outside Walford.

Sexy Michelle Ryan, 20, who plays Zoe, has already indicated that she will be heading off at the end of the year to pursue a career in film and modelling.

Meanwhile, the return of Kat, who was voted the sexiest star in soaps, also looks unlikely.

The character, played by Jesse Wallace, 33, was due to return after having her baby but it seems there may be no home for her to come back to.