SPOILER ALERT: EastEnders gets ready to bid farewell to Michael Moon with a lonely funeral with Kat and Alfie in attendance
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Scenes from the character’s funeral show few attendees aside from Michael’s relatives Alfie and Kat Moon.
Earlier this year actor Steve John Shepherd, who plays the role of Michael Moon, announced that he would quit the soap in order to explore new roles.
Grief: Alfie and Kat mourn the death of Michael Moon in EastEnders
The funeral scenes show Alfie Moon comforting a visibly devastated Kat as they bid Michael a final farewell.
It has been revealed that Michael will be killed off in what bosses describe as a ‘massive twist’ and ‘dramatic storyline’.
His dramatic exit will form the climax of his custody battle with his former wife Janine Butcher, who is played by Charlie Brooks, who is also leaving the soap.
Farewell: Alfie and Kat are among the few people to attend Michael's funeral
Grief: The pair wrap up against the cold as they grieve for Michael
Tender: Alfie gently caresses Kat's cheek
Devastated: Kat collapses into Alfie's arms as she grieves for Michael
It has been speculated that Alice Branning, played by Jasmyn Banks, will be central to the plot, with a murder being one of the possible ways Michael may leave the soap.
The Daily Star reports: ‘There will be a massive twist when Michael enlists a smitten Alice Branning to help him get his daughter back.
‘Soap bosses are keeping the details of his departure under wraps but the Daily Star Sunday can reveal Michael’s plan will backfire when meek and mild Alice finally sees him for what he really is.’
Alice has been besotted with Michael for months after losing her virginity to him earlier this year.
Reflection: Kat and Alfie cut solitary figures as they remember Michael
Sadness: Kat glances at Alfie as Michael's coffin is lowered
Sadness: The couple are united in grief as they attend the funeral
Smart: Kat and Alfie dress the part for the occasion in all-black outfits
She was left devastated after he coldheartedly rejected her and destroyed her dreams of them becoming a couple.
Earlier this year, Steve said of leaving the show: ‘I feel now is the time to move on.
‘I have relished every minute of exploring this character – the good and the bad.’
A source for the show said: ‘Ever since Janine returned to Albert Square things have gone from bad to worse for Michael.
‘Viewers will be shocked by the lengths Janine and Michael will go to for the sake of their daughter.’
In-between takes: Actress Jessie Wallace lets off steam and goofs around to let off steam
Comfort: The pair hold hands as they attend the funeral 
Remembrance: A solemn-looking van arrives on the scene
Remembrance: A solemn-looking van arrives on the scene
Final farewell: Michael's coffin is lowered as the character departs from the soap
Letting go: Alfie shows his emotion as he breaks down in tears
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2420690/EastEnders-gets-ready-bid-farewell-Michael-Moon-lonely-funeral-Kat-Alfie-attendance.html#ixzz2ezL1qjMi
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