EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has been axed from the soap after almost two decades on the series.

The actor has played Jay Brown on the BBC soap for the last 19 years, with the character making his debut in Walford on 14 December 2006.

After several major storylines over the years, Borthwick’s time on the series is now over, with a spokesperson for BBC Studios confirming the news to Digital Spy in a statement.

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“We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders,” reads the statement. “We do not comment on individual matters.”

The news comes after Borthwick was given a three-month suspension by the BBC in June for the use of “entirely unacceptable” language during his stint on Strictly Come Dancing, which took place last year.

“This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC,” said a spokesperson for the broadcaster at the time. “We have robust processes in place for this.”

Borthwick, who made it to the 10th week of the competition, issued an apology following his suspension, saying: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.

“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely.

“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong… But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views, or who I am.”

While Borthwick is leaving EastEnders, the soap is due to bring back an iconic character in the shape of Max Branning, with actor Jake Wood confirming that his full-time return would air “imminently”.