In a moment that’s sure to shock and excite *EastEnders* fans, long-time cast member Jane Slaughter, who has portrayed the iconic character Tracey since the very first episode, has finally broken her silence after four decades on the show. Tracey, known for her silent yet ever-present role at the Queen Vic, has become a fan favorite despite having minimal dialogue over the years. Now, at 63, Slaughter has shared her thoughts on her legendary character and thanked fans for their loyalty in a rare public statement.

In her debut Instagram post, Slaughter shared a heartwarming video from a recent holiday, where she took the opportunity to directly connect with her followers. After so many years of playing the quiet yet integral Tracey, fans were thrilled to hear from the actress herself. “I would like to say hello and thank you for all those years of loyalty,” she said, confirming that the Instagram account was her own and expressing her gratitude for the ongoing support she’s received throughout her remarkable career on the BBC soap.

Tracey first appeared in *EastEnders* selling flowers, but by 1989, she had found her true calling as a barmaid at the Queen Vic, where she has remained ever since. Her role as a background character has often involved explaining the absence of other key characters, subtly maintaining the continuity of life in Walford. Though she’s not one to dominate the screen with lengthy speeches or dramatic storylines, Tracey’s consistent presence has made her an essential part of the show’s fabric, and fans have come to adore her quiet strength and loyalty.

Over the years, very little has been revealed about Tracey’s personal life. Her limited dialogue and screen time have kept her character shrouded in mystery. However, keen viewers have managed to gather a few details about her life outside the Queen Vic. We know that Tracey is married, has a son and grandchildren, and in 2003, she had a brief, one-night fling with the notorious villain Jase Rickman. In true *EastEnders* fashion, drama soon followed, and just two years later, Tracey found herself in a dangerous situation when she was struck over the head with a crowbar by Sam Mitchell—a moment that highlighted her quiet resilience.

Despite her low-key role, Tracey has had her fair share of memorable moments at the Queen Vic. Over the years, she’s been let go or resigned from her barmaid duties multiple times, but the residents of Walford have always rallied around her. In one notable storyline, the locals staged a protest when Woody Woodward fired her from the pub, demonstrating just how much she means to the community. Tracey may not speak much, but her impact on those around her is undeniable.

One of the more surprising revelations about Tracey came when she admitted to having slept with none other than Phil Mitchell, a central character in *EastEnders*. In classic soap opera style, she went as far as to declare that Phil was the best lover she had ever had, adding a touch of humor to her otherwise reserved character. This unexpected detail gave fans a rare glimpse into Tracey’s personal life and proved that even the quietest characters have their secrets.

Though she’s not one to dominate the drama, Tracey’s quiet presence has earned her a special place in the hearts of viewers. Even *EastEnders* spin-off series *E20* paid homage to her with a bit of comedic advice from the much-missed Fatboy, who advised that one of his top survival tips in Walford was to avoid chatting with Tracey because, according to him, “she goes on and on and on.” This playful jab only added to her charm, solidifying her as a beloved yet understated character in the *EastEnders* universe.

In her recent comments, Slaughter expressed that while it may be tempting to give Tracey a more elaborate backstory or turn her into a talkative, family-oriented character, it wouldn’t feel true to who she has been for the past 40 years. Instead, she praised how well the character has been developed over time, emphasizing that her quiet, enigmatic nature is what makes Tracey unique. To suddenly transform her into someone with an elaborate backstory would feel unrealistic and out of place.

Slaughter’s portrayal of Tracey has shown that not every character needs dramatic storylines or extensive dialogue to make an impact. Her subtlety and consistency have kept Tracey an integral part of *EastEnders* for decades, a rarity in the world of soap operas. While other characters come and go, facing major upheavals and tragedies, Tracey’s steady presence behind the bar at the Queen Vic serves as a comforting reminder that life in Walford continues through all the chaos.

With her Instagram debut and heartfelt thanks to fans, Jane Slaughter has reminded everyone of just how special her journey as Tracey has been. For 40 years, she’s been a quiet force on the show, and while her character may not be the most vocal, she has certainly left a lasting impression on viewers. Whether she’s serving drinks, offering a knowing glance, or quietly observing the drama unfold, Tracey is a constant in the ever-changing world of *EastEnders*, and fans wouldn’t have it any other way.

As *EastEnders* continues to evolve, it’s clear that Tracey’s role, no matter how small it may seem, remains vital to the show’s long-running success. And with Jane Slaughter’s recent remarks, we can all take a moment to appreciate the silent strength she has brought to *EastEnders* over the past four decades. Whether she’s speaking or not, Tracey’s presence is always felt, and that’s what makes her such an enduring character.

What do you think about Tracey’s role in *EastEnders*? Are you glad Jane Slaughter has finally spoken out after 40 years? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more updates on your favorite *EastEnders* characters!