Clair Norris, the 27-year-old actress who brought the character Bernadette ‘Bernie’ Taylor to life on EastEnders, has announced she will be leaving the long-running BBC soap later this year. After an impressive eight-year journey, her departure will also mark the end of the Taylor family’s presence on the show.
A representative for EastEnders shared the news, saying, “We can confirm that Clair will be leaving EastEnders later this year. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”
Norris’ exit comes during a pivotal time for the soap, with a change in leadership as Ben Wadey takes over as producer, following Chris Clenshaw’s departure. An insider close to the show told The Sun: “Whenever a new producer steps in, it’s common for them to want to make their own changes. This isn’t a personal matter—Bernie’s storyline has been winding down, so Clair was prepared for this transition.”
A second source added, “While Clair will be missed by the entire EastEnders team, it’s part of the natural cycle of soap operas. New characters and fresh storylines are always part of the evolution, and Clair will forever be a part of the EastEnders legacy.”
Since joining the cast in 2017, Clair Norris has become a recognizable face on EastEnders. Known for playing the quirky and relatable Bernie Taylor, she has pushed for her character to stand out in terms of fashion, often noting her personal dislike for the distinctive style of checked shirts and purple coats Bernie is known for. She previously told OK! Magazine, “I didn’t want Bernie to resemble me in any way. I was keen on creating a look for her that felt completely different from my own.”
Despite her best efforts to distance herself from the character’s style, Clair’s fame made it difficult to go unnoticed by fans. She shared, “When I wear makeup and not Bernie’s clothes, I sometimes get away with it. But after being on the show for so long, it doesn’t quite work anymore. Even with a mask, people still recognize me, which is wild because all they can see are my eyes.”
As Clair Norris prepares to leave EastEnders, her fans will fondly remember her portrayal of Bernie Taylor and eagerly await her future ventures in the entertainment industry.
