EASTENDERS star Bernie Taylor’s shock exit has been revealed after actress Clair Norris was axed from the soap.

Clair – who has played Bernie for eight years in the BBC soap – was told her contract would not be renewed earlier this year after new boss Ben Wadey took over the show.

Viewers next week will see Bernie exposed as a thief who has been stealing from the Panesar family after late killer Nish gave her control in his will.

Vicki Fowler will attempt to blackmail her for some of the skimmed cash – as Bernie’s cousin Felix also warns her to be careful.

And when Priya and Ravi start to suspect Bernie’s abilities to run the Panesar accounts aren’t quite there, Suki is adamant she’s up to the job.

Later, Kathy tells Suki that Bernie has stolen money from the accounts, and Priya tells Ravi who intervenes by requesting an audience with Bernie at No.41.

Realising she has nowhere to hide, Bernie tells Ravi, Priya and Suki that Vicki is the one responsible for her crime.

However Ravi and Priya aren’t convinced and enlist Vinny into finding out the truth.

Actress Clair recently teased her exit from Walford – teasing Bad Bernie’s return.

She said: “My exit is very Bernie, and it’s back to bad Bernie.

“It’s very dramatic, and must-watch, I’ve already filmed my exit and it will play out later this summer.”

Clair also recently told The Sun about her plans once the EastEnders chapter in her life comes to an end.

She said: “My plan is to work out what I want to do. EastEnders is the only thing I’ve ever done, so all I know is soap.

“I came from college and went straight into it. I think having a varied career, going into theatre would be great, and also, doing a drama would be great. I’m open to anything.

“I’ve just been on holiday which was great and the perfect timing. And now I’m back it’s about getting cracking with show reels and self tapes.”