New ‘EastEnders’ boss John Yorke has lifted a ban on the show’s cast appearing in pantomimes.
Soap stars have historically turned to money-spinning productions as a means of boosting their earnings and John has decided to lift the ban on the ‘EastEnders’ cast accepting such roles in a bid to improve the overall mood on set.
A source said: "John has made it his mission to meet with disgruntled stars and find out what has gone wrong. He had a mountain to climb with some of them – but he’s really had an effect and people are already much happier.
"His aim was to get some of the big names back onside and secure their futures – and his plan is working."
The ban on pantomimes left some members of the cast feeling annoyed and frustrated, with veterans actors like Adam Woodyatt – who plays the part of Ian Beale in the long-running soap – being one of few who have been allowed to appear in a production.
The source told The Sun newspaper: "One of the concessions was to give people the green light to take on pantos if they balance it with filming.
"The ban has always been a big bone of contention with many of the stars so it was a smart move."
Meanwhile, it was reported last month that John is plotting a cull of the current cast.
The acclaimed producer – who previously worked on ‘EastEnders’ from 1999 until 2002 – has been brought on board to transform the fortunes of the BBC soap, and he is apparently planning to revamp the cast and introduce some more dramatic storylines.
EastEnders boss lifts pantomime ban
