Emmerdale actress Fiona Wade has paid tribute to the ITV soap and its fans after her emotional exit scenes aired on Friday evening.
Priya’s swansong came hot on the heels of a tense kidnapping drama with David Metcalfe and their daughter Amba, after he learned of their plans to move to London.
David finally brought their daughter back at the end of Thursday evening’s episode and the loose ends between the pair were tied up, with Priya leaving him and her family on good terms.
After the scenes, Emmerdale posted a short clip with actress Fiona in which she paid tribute to the loyal fans at home, who were crushed that she had decided to leave the Dales.
In the video, she said: “I just finished filming my very last scene as Priya. My goodness, I feel so emotional. I haven't stopped crying.
“It has truly been the most incredible ten years on this show. I have loved every second of being here.
“I have loved playing Priya. Just coming into work every day, being made up to be so glamorous, all the wonderful costumes and the wonderful storylines.
“It's just been a dream job. I am so thankful to everyone at Emmerdale. I love you all and I'm going to miss you so much.”
She concluded: “Thank you so much to all the viewers for all your support over the years, for watching and supporting me and Priya. I just wanted to send you all my love and a huge thank you.”
Taking to Twitter, fans responded to the sweet scenes and Priya’s farewell, as one wrote: “Aww you’ll be missed Fiona & Priya of course.”
Another viewer emotionally wrote: “Congratulations Fiona Wade on an incredible 9 years in Emmerdale as the beautiful and feisty Priya.
“You'll be missed massively and was a massive credit to the show. I wish you all the best for the future. My favourite character has left the village for good.”
“Goodbye, Priya!!!! We will miss you,” another wrote as one penned: “Noooooooo not Priya.”
Priya’s final scenes saw her bury the hatchet with Leyla as well as David and Rishi, who was struggling with the idea of her leaving.
Priya headed back home to coax him out, assuring her dad that he could visit all the time and that she and Amba would only be a train ride away and back to see him soon.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV.
