A paper crown. A forced smile. And a festive post that said far more than any caption ever could.
Former EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has made a rare return to social media this Christmas — sharing a subdued black-and-white selfie that has left fans deeply concerned about the year he’s endured.
The 31-year-old actor, who played Jay Brown for almost two decades, appeared downcast in the image, wearing a Christmas cracker hat and offering only the faintest of smiles.
Alongside it, he wrote quietly:
“Wishing everyone a merry Christmas and let’s hope for a slightly better 2026 for us all xx.”
It was his first real update in months.
FROM SOAP STAPLE TO SUDDEN SILENCE
Jamie was suspended earlier this year after a backstage video emerged from his time on Strictly Come Dancing showing him using a derogatory slur about disabled people.
The incident — which reportedly occurred during rehearsals — left colleagues shocked, with singer Wynne Evans heard reacting in disbelief at the time.
In September, BBC Studios confirmed the news many fans had feared:
“We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders.”
Just like that, a 19-year chapter of his life came to an abrupt end.
“I AM DEEPLY SORRY…”
Jamie later issued a heartfelt apology, admitting he had not fully understood the seriousness of the language he used.
“I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly,” he said.
“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.”
But the damage had already been done.
A YEAR THAT LEFT HIM IN HIDING
Since the controversy, Jamie has largely vanished from social media — only briefly reappearing amid reports of further backstage reprimands connected to Strictly rehearsals.
For months, there was silence.
Until now.
A QUIET CHRISTMAS… AND A HOPE FOR REDEMPTION
That single festive selfie — with its tired eyes and tentative caption — feels less like a Christmas post and more like a plea for a second chance.
As one year closes and another begins, fans are left asking:
Can 2026 truly be the fresh start Jamie Borthwick is hoping for — or is this the moment that will define him forever?
Source: Adapted from reporting by https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
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