TOWIE EXODUS CONTINUES AS THREE MORE STARS PREPARE TO LEAVE THE SERIES

The Only Way Is Essex is facing yet another major cast shake-up, with reports confirming that three more stars are set to leave the hit ITV reality series. The departures mark one of the show’s biggest exoduses in recent years and signal a significant change in direction for the upcoming season.

According to insiders, Roman Hackett, who has been part of TOWIE for four years, is preparing to walk away from the series. His exit alone would have made headlines, but fans were stunned to learn he’ll be joined by two more recognisable faces: Sammy Root and Matilda Draper.

Roman Hackett, known for his long-running storylines and off-screen relationships, is said to be closing the Essex chapter of his life as he pursues new projects. Sources suggest that producers had hoped to keep him, but the reality star is “ready for life beyond the show”.

Roman Hackett is not returning to the ITV2 show - Credit: ITV

Meanwhile, Sammy Root, who first rose to fame on Love Island, is reportedly stepping back after two years on TOWIE. Sammy became a popular addition when he joined in 2024 following his appearance on the ITV dating series, but is now said to be leaving to “explore new opportunities”.

His exit comes as a surprise to viewers, many of whom expected him to play a major part in the upcoming series. However, insiders suggest Sammy has been keen to “diversify his career” away from reality TV.

Also heading for the door is Matilda Draper, another former Love Island contestant and Roman Hackett’s real-life partner. Although reportedly “loved” by producers, Matilda only ever appeared in a guest role.

With Roman leaving the show, sources claim the team did not intend to bring her in as a full-time cast member, and without him, Matilda has decided not to continue.

“She made a great impression,” one insider shared, “but without Roman’s storyline, there wasn’t a natural place for her in the new cast dynamic.”

Roman’s girlfriend Matilda Draper has now also quit - Credit: Lime Pictures

A source told The Sun:

“There are a lot of changes ahead for the new series of TOWIE and unfortunately some stars won’t be back.”

Industry insiders believe TOWIE may be undergoing a wider refresh, with new cast members expected and several longstanding personalities rumoured to be on the chopping block.

Fans have speculated that the producers are aiming to “modernise” the show, which is now more than a decade old, by injecting fresh faces and new drama. Whether the shake-up will revitalise the series or alienate loyal viewers remains to be seen.

This may only be the start of the exodus. Several other names have been reportedly “on the fence” about returning, while others are awaiting filming schedule confirmations.

Sammy Root, 24, also won’t be back in a ‘mutual agreement’ with show bosses - Credit: ITV

For now, the departure of Roman, Sammy and Matilda marks a turning point, and the next series could look very different from the Essex the audience has come to know.

TOWIE fans will be watching closely, and the cast list for the next series may be one of the most anticipated in years.