An iconic character from EastEnders was supposed to be killed off, which would have had a huge impact on the show.

Janine Butcher is a name that is sure to spark strong emotions in any EastEnders fan. She has become one of the show's most iconic and love-to-hate villains, captivating audiences with her devious schemes and manipulative ways. However, it has now been revealed that Janine's path to infamy almost took a different turn back in 2004.

According to her former on-screen husband Shaun Williamson, who played Barry Evans, the original plan was for his character to murder Janine as part of a Valentine's Day storyline. But, as fate would have it, Shaun had decided to leave the show after 10 years, prompting a change in the script that would see his character meet a tragic end instead.

This decision not only altered the course of Barry's fate, but also saved Janine from an early demise. It also spared viewers of one of the most iconic and quoted scenes in the show's history, where Janine callously lied to Barry's family about his death, saying, "If only he'd worn slip on shoes."

Although Janine did eventually leave the soap later that year, she made a highly-anticipated comeback in 2008, causing chaos once again. From framing Stacey Slater for her attempted murder, to murdering her third husband Michael Moon, Janine's return was as explosive as ever.

Her most recent comeback in 2021 saw Janine plotting to split up Mick and Linda Carter, eventually succeeding in marrying Mick. However, their happiness was short-lived when the truth about Janine's involvement in a car crash came to light, leading to her fleeing in fear of criminal charges.

In a twist of fate, Janine ended up splitting up the beloved Carters and giving birth to Mick's baby, who is now being cared for by her brother Ricky Butcher. And while she may currently be behind bars for framing Linda, there is always a possibility of Janine making another return in the future.

Actress Charlie Brooks, who portrays Janine, has expressed her love for the character and her willingness to return to the show. However, she also acknowledges the need for balance and not overexposing Janine, as it may not sit well with viewers.

With so much drama and turmoil surrounding Janine, it's no wonder she has become such a polarizing figure on the show. And while her actions may leave a trail of destruction in her wake, there's no denying the impact she has had on EastEnders and the hearts of its fans.

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