Holby City star Michael Thomson has been talking about his decision to leave the show – and why his screen alter ego decided it was time to make tracks, too.

Michael plays Jonny Maconie in the BBC One medical drama, but after a tough time that involved being falsely imprisoned for killing a patient and getting stabbed while in prison, Jonny is now making a fresh start.

The actor told What’s On TV: “Jonny’s endured so much since he’s been at Holby with his on-off relationship with Jac Naylor (Rosie Marcel), their daughter Emma’s illness and then the sudden death of his fiancee Bonnie.

“His recent ordeal has given him a new sense of direction and he’s ready to take his life on a new journey – but first he has a score to settle with Guy…”

Holby City
Jonny Maconie (Michael Thomson) confronts Guy Self (John Michie) before he leaves Holby City (BBC)

Jonny, who eventually leaves Holby with Jac and Emma, blames CEO Guy Self (John Michie) for everything that has happened and makes sure he gets a stern word in before he goes.

Michael said: “There’s an intense confrontation between the two of them where Jonny basically takes Guy aside and has a quiet word in his ear… while really squeezing his hand. It’s one of those really tight handshakes where Jonny lets Guy know that he’s really marked his card.”

Talking about his own reasons for leaving the series, he added: “I’ve loved every second of my time on Holby but, as an actor, I want to try new roles and don’t ever want to get too comfortable. I’ve really enjoyed playing Jonny and I’ll remember him fondly – but I don’t think even he could handle any more devastation in his life!”