Fan's of ITV's Coronation Street have been left shocked by news that Alexandra Mardell has quit the show.
The actress who plays Emma on the long running soap dropped the bombshell news via a post on Twitter on Monday, February 7.
She said that the role in the show had been the best experience of her life which "makes my decision to leave all the more difficult".
Corrie fan's were quick to respond to the post, which to date has clocked up nearly 2.5k likes.
One fan wrote: "I didn't see this coming gosh I'll miss you, definitely you will be missed. Thankyou so much for coming onto our screens Been a delight to watch you, a fab actress. Hoping you will make the return back one day in the future. Best of luck with your next project."
Supportive comments continued: "So sorry you are leaving the cobbles, as your character is brilliant (which gives testament to your acting ability/scripts). But if opportunities arise that inspire you, grab them with both hands and don’t look back."
Another fan said: "I'm absolutely gutted that you're leaving. I've grown to love Emma and her ditsy ways, she's so sweet and absolutely hilarious, and that's testament to your brilliant acting. Wishing you every happiness and success for the future, I'm sure you'll smash it xx"
The 28 year old joined the cast of the soap in 2018, and according to Birmingham Live, the actress will leave her Emma Brooker role in April.
For her portrayal of the role, she won the British Soap Award for Best Newcomer, and was nominated for Newcomer at the National Television Awards.
Her other roles have included Vera and Chocolate Pieces, a short film.
In her post she said: "Playing Emma, on the most iconic street there is, has been the best experience of my life. Four years have gone so fast.
“Compared to other cast members I still feel like a newbie, which makes my decision to leave all the more difficult.
"But now is the right time as a number of exciting opportunities beckon."
Adding hope that she could return to the role she wrote: "Although who knows, maybe the street hasn't seen the last of Emma Brooker. I can't thank everyone at Coronation Street enough for welcoming me and trusting me to tell so many wonderful and heartfelt stories.
"And of course, for the friendships and the amazing fans. When I see pink, I will always think of Emma."
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