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Courtney Green quits TOWIE after 10 years, shocking fans

By GoNews Pulse Editorial Team••Updated Oct 16, 2026
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Courtney Green quits TOWIE after 10 years, shocking fans

**Courtney Green to Step Away From The Only Way Is Essex After a Decade**

Courtney Green, 31, has confirmed she will leave *The Only Way Is Essex* after ten years on the ITV reality series. The announcement comes as the show prepares for a major reshuffle that could see several long‑time and newer cast members written off.

Green’s decision follows a series of high‑profile dramas, including a trip to Albania and a feud between fellow stars Elma Pazar and Harry Derbidge.

The 31‑year‑old has been a fan favourite, known for her turbulent on‑screen romance with Myles Barnett and her relationship with businessman Callum Bushby, which ended in April. Her departure arrives amid speculation that ITV is planning a “cast bloodbath” to return the programme to its original format.

Sources say Green wants a break ahead of “a busy time for her family and across her business ventures.” She added that after the last series she simply decided a reset would be beneficial in all ways, and that she will return when the time is right.

## Background & Context

*The Only Way Is Essex* has been a staple of ITV’s daytime schedule, renewing its third series this year. Producers are reportedly eyeing a return to the show’s early days, with plans to cut several cast members—including newer faces—to refocus on long‑standing characters.

A source explained that the cast is being urged to deliver drama, noting it feels like “survival of the fittest” as they try to keep their roles secure.

The programme’s future hangs in balance as ITV prepares for a potential purchase by Sky.

Producer Rebecca Kenny‑Smith is reportedly steering the shift, which includes removing certain members and concentrating on established storylines featuring names such as Ella Rae Wise, Dani Imbert, Sophie Kasaei, Jordan Brook, Junaid Ahmed, Joe Blackman, Amy Childs and Lauren Goodger.

## What People Are Saying

A source told reporters that “the cast are being continuously told they need to bring it in terms of drama,” and with whispers of another brutal cull, they are “falling over themselves to find storylines.” The same source added that “no one wants to be seen as expendable” and that the show must focus on characters with genuine history.

Regarding Green’s exit, she said, “After the last series she just decided that a break and a reset would be beneficial for her in all sorts of ways. But she'll be back – this isn't goodbye – she's just opting for some time out.” She stressed the decision is not final, only a temporary pause.

In related headlines, Amy Childs, another long‑time star, has been filming a wedding special that includes appearances from her TOWIE co‑stars. A source told reporters that “the wedding is set to be huge, with all her celebrity pals invited, including her Towie co‑stars.

They are getting very excited now that all of the plans are falling into place, and the show means they will get to watch their special day back forever.”

## What Happens Next

The show’s upcoming series will be closely watched by both producers and fans as a litmus test for the new direction. ITV has already renewed the programme for an additional run, signalling confidence in the format despite the cast shake‑up.

Green’s break will leave a noticeable gap in the ensemble, but insiders say she intends to return when her schedule allows.

Meanwhile, other cast members are reportedly negotiating their own paths forward, with some staying on for special appearances and others preparing to leave. The industry will likely see further changes as the show recalibrates its lineup to meet audience expectations and internal strategies.

Courtney Green’s departure marks a turning point for *The Only Way Is Essex*, reminding viewers that even long‑standing reality stars may step back when life demands a reset.

Why It Matters

Courtney Green’s decision to leave The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) signals a pivotal moment for both the show and the wider UK reality television landscape. After ten years of on‑screen drama, Green’s exit underscores the increasing pressures faced by long‑time cast members to maintain relevance in a media environment. ITV’s reported intention to trim newer faces and refocus on veteran personalities reflects a broader industry trend toward nostalgia‑driven content that appeals to core audiences while attempting to curb production costs. For fans, Green’s departure creates a void in the ensemble’s dynamic, particularly given her high‑profile relationships and role as a fan favourite, which may prompt shifts in viewer engagement patterns. From a business perspective, the move allows ITV to reallocate budget toward fresh storylines and potential new talent, but risks alienating loyal viewers who have grown attached to established characters. The situation also highlights the precarious nature of reality TV careers, where personal well‑being and commercial considerations often dictate cast stability. Ultimately, Green’s exit serves as a barometer for the sustainability of long‑running reality formats amid changing audience expectations and industry economics.

Our Take

While Courtney Green’s announcement may disappoint fans, it offers an opportunity for The Only Way Is Essex to reinvent itself and stay relevant. Reality shows thrive on conflict and chemistry, but over time they risk becoming stale if cast members feel trapped or overexposed. ITV’s willingness to consider a “cast bloodbath” suggests a recognition that the show’s current formula no longer captivates viewers as it once did. Green stepping away can be seen as a healthy reset for both her and the series: she can focus on personal growth, while the producers can recalibrate story arcs around core characters who still command audience loyalty. However, any reduction in diversity of personalities risks narrowing the show’s appeal; if the narrative becomes too insular, it may fail to attract new viewers. Therefore, a balanced approach—retaining key favorites like Green when possible, while introducing fresh faces—could strike the right mix of continuity and innovation. In short, this departure is not a loss but a chance for reinvention that could strengthen the franchise in the long run.

GoNews Pulse Editorial Team

This article was prepared for publication by GoNews Pulse and checked for publication requirements under our editorial standards. We review available information and correct material errors when they are identified.

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She says she needs a personal reset as the industry reshuffles, but insiders hint her exit could change the show’s future.
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Related topics

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  • #TOWIE cast shakeup

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