Alexandra Mardell has left many Coronation Street fans gutted as she revealed her plans to leave the soap.
The actress is best known for playing bubbly, pink-wearing Emma Brooker.
She made her debut in Weatherfield in 2018 as an apprentice hairdresser at Audrey Roberts' salon.
Emma has since become a barmaid at the Rovers and had a life-changing moment when she discovered her biological father is Steve McDonald.
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But after four years, Alexandra has made the decision to leave the cobbles.
In a statement, the 28-year-old 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 I feel it’s the right time for me."
She added: "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. When I see pink, I will always think of Emma."
Hours before the announcement was made, Alexandra took to Instagram with a couple of behind-the-scene snaps.
The first showed a picture of her dressing room door slightly ajar to show a row of dressing tables with light adorned beauty mirror and a vase of pretty pink flowers.
The other was a selfie of her keeping warm in her big ITV Coronation Street puffa jacket.
When sharing the news of her exit, which will air in April, on Twitter, Alexandra prompted a response from her co-stars and Corrie fans.
Sally Ann Matthews, who plays Rovers landlady Jenny Connor, said: "I’m still fewmin Xxxxxxxx."
Julia Goulding, known for playing Shona Platt, responded: "Me too."
Jacob Hay actor Jack James Ryan added: "Huge loss for the show but incredibly excited to see what you get up to next!! Big love."
One fan, @easstenders, tweeted; "Omg bit devved."
"Noooooo...I can't believe Emma is leaving #Corrie . She will be sorely missed. Alexandra has played her exquisitely," @MJ_JJ061215 said.
@TellyChat_ shared: "You have brought so much joy to the cobbles playing Emma. She is an icon and she will certainly be missed. Good luck for the future Alexandra."
"OMG. Absolutely gobsmacked at this news. Four years is too short. You will be truly missed Alexandra. @itvcorrie will not be same without you, but I wish you all the best for the future. Warm wishes," @asagumo71 added.
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