were they axed from the show

Kind of. They were axed to make a spin off. That spin off has dragged and is due to air a year later than planned. They could have been back on the square by now otherwise

I can't imagine they'd axe an actress as talented and popular as Jessie Wallace. DTC made some poor decisions but that would be weird even for him.

I wonder when/if there will be anything more on the brain scan Alfie had. It looked set to be an upcoming storyline. Purely speculation but if Alfie did die of a brain tumour would that bring Kat back to the square, and would that start the re-building of the Slaters, seeing as Bellinda has now joined the cast.

Alfie's death and a widowed Kat returning without him would be ideal.

Definitely.

Kat is seriously missed.

Kat is the future of EastEnders, they need her back asap

Kat and Janine are the two who could instantly improve things. Great characters with some life and energy and personality.