Molly Rainford appeared on The One Show alongside her Celebrity Race Across The World co-stars Tyler West, Dylan Llewellyn and his mum Jackie(Image: BBC)

Molly Rainford has revealed the reasons behind her decision to quit EastEnders.

The actress became part of the cast as Anna Knight in 2023, with her character’s journey including being drugged at the local nightclub and reconnecting with her long-lost mum Rose Knight, also known as Cindy Beale, portrayed by Michelle Collins.

Earlier this year, Molly’s departure was officially announced when an EastEnders representative stated: “We can confirm that Molly Rainford will be leaving EastEnders later this year, and we wish her all the best for the future.”

Viewers witnessed Anna’s departure from Walford alongside her on-and-off boyfriend Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier) in the heart-wrenching episode that broadcast on December 2.

Anna spent her final moments in the Square mending relationships between Kojo Asare, Gina Knight and Harry Mitchell, whilst also having a meaningful conversation with George Knight about the power of forgiveness, reports the Mirror.

Molly opened up about her EastEnders exit (Image: BBC)

On Tuesday (December 9), Molly made an appearance on The One Show to chat about the forthcoming Celebrity Race Across The World finale with her co-star fiancé Tyler West and fellow contestants actor Dylan Llewellyn and his mother, Jackie.

Following presenters Alex Jones and Clara Amfo’s questions about their adventure across the hidden gems of the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines of Central America, the discussion swiftly shifted to Anna’s EastEnders departure.

The actress disclosed: “It was really bittersweet. I love working with everyone and I’ve had the most amazing two and a half years there but I just wanted to spread my wings and go get some experience elsewhere, and use what I have learnt at EastEnders. I did share a little tear watching the last ep.”

Following Anna’s departure from the Square, Molly turned to Instagram to reflect on her stint with the BBC soap, whilst dropping hints that fans might not have seen the last of her character.

Freddie and Anna recently agreed to give their relationship a go in EastEnders(Image: BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)

Sharing a collection of behind-the-scenes snaps from her time in Walford, the soap star penned: “Your girl Anna Knight is off to Australia. I can’t put into words just how wonderful the last few years at @bbceastenders has been.

“Anna’s laughed, cried, worked and lived in the Vic (still surreal), been in a love triangle, been spiked, got pregnant, had tough conversations about Race and her mum came back from the dead. No wonder she needs a break from Walford.

“It really is a family, the cast and crew are truly special. I’m gonna miss working alongside them everyday. Especially the lovely Knights, Beales and Peacock/Carters. Couldn’t have asked for better people to learn from and laugh with day in and day out.

“I want to thank everyone so much for all the love and support, it means the absolute world. I have so many lovely memories from Albert Square, here’s a handful of the highlights.”

She then cheekily hinted: “And lets be honest, no one goes travelling forever [winking emoji]. Love, Molly.”