Call The Midwife fans have been left gutted by the news that Leonie Elliott has left the show after six years, in the aftermath of a series finale that saw her character Lucille Anderson depart Poplar for pastures new.
Leonie had been at the centre of the action in the 12th series of the long-running BBC drama, with hard working nurse embroiled in a racism storyline that saw her earn plenty of plaudits from viewers who were upset and angry as the scenes played out, while also praising Call The Midwife bosses for their sensitive handling of the matter. The episode addressed Enoch Powell's controversial speech from the 1960s and saw Lucille shut down an expectant mother over racist comments they made about another patient.
Leonie has also been at the centre of truly heartbreaking scenes, after Lucille suffered a devastating miscarriage.
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The Call The Midwife series finale, after being postponed by the BBC, finally aired last Sunday, with Trixie and Matthew's wedding take the spotlight. But, as well as having their hearts warmed by the couple's nuptials, viewers were sad to see Lucille confirmed to her Nonnatus House colleagues and friends that she was off to the Caribbean.
And it looks like Leonie's on-screen alias' move is going to be permanent as Leonie has since taken to social media for an emotional post to id goodbye to Call The Midwife.
Taking to Instagram and Twitter, Leonie wrote: "Thank you all for embracing Lucille and rocking with me on this journey, it is with a heart full of love and appreciation that I embark on pastures new.
"Having spent 6 years on a truly wonderful show, with a fantastic team I have fallen deeper and deeper in love with Lucille. I feel honoured to have represented the pioneering Windrush generation and their incredible impact on British society."
She added: "I would like to say a MASSIVE thank you to the brilliant cast and our uber talented creative team: Heidi Thomas, Pippa Harris, and Annie Tricklebank. Thank you again for all your support, it is hugely appreciated. Super excited for what's coming next! Xxx."
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