Jude Riordan has had a big week for an 11-year-old. The Coronation Street actor, who fans best know for playing Sam Blakeman, took to Instagram to share two big pieces of news.
On Wednesday (July 20) the young soap star took to his Instagram page, which is run by his parents, to share two images side by side, one showing his first day at school a number of years ago and now, as he embarked on his last day as a primary school pupil.
"LAST DAY AT PRIMARY SCHOOL for me," Jude penned alongside the adorable photos. "So excited for new adventures but sooooo sad to leave the best school. Leavers Assembly to get through this morning (send tissues for the Mother) and a mad dash over to Corrie for [filming]."
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He then added a sweet message to his follow young school leavers, writing: "Good luck to all Year 6s leaving this week. WE CAN SMASH HIGH SCHOOL."
Jude's former on-screen mum Rachel Leskovac, who played Natasha Blakeman in the ITV soap, was among the firs to comment, writing: "Lots of hugs all round and you do give the best hug." And fans were soon sharing their lovely messages to the Corrie star
@xenaprime commented: "Kid the fact you've achieved so much before leaving primary school is astounding, you're gonna go places!" @beverleyw2211 said: "So cute. Good luck at your new high school Jude." @lilysomerford1 wrote: "So good to see you back on the cobbles, Jude! Enjoy your last day of primary school, and best of luck for your high school journey."
It comes a day after Jude shared some more exciting news with his followers. The Brassic actor said he was 'chuffed' to find out he was nominated for a gong at an upcoming awards ceremony. "I am completely chuffed to find out I'm up for Best Young Performer at the Inside Soap Awards," he wrote.
"AND my mate Bella is. I've shared the vote link in my stories and my bio so if anyone would like to vote for me you can find it. Thank you for all the messages so far. I have said before I have the best followers. I DO." And once again Jude's followers were quick to share their praise and tell him that he had their vote.
@adele71819 said: "Well deserved to a very talented actor, you’ll smash it and will vote for you." @annedavis1909 replied: "You’ve got my vote good luck." @deb_lou__ commented: "Good luck sweetie you got my vote . Brilliant actor." @fifitrixabel_aspin added: "Very talented lad you so deserve it."
It comes as nominations for the major categories were officially announced on Tuesday, with an even spread of nods across the four major shows; Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, all of which are in contention for best soap overall. Among the contenders for best storyline are hard-hitting issues such as Abi Webster's battle for baby Alfie in Coronation Street, Ben's rape and Jean's bipolar disorder in EastEnders, and John Paul's alcohol addiction in Hollyoaks.
Fans will also get the chance to decide who is crowned the greatest soap opera star of all time at the Inside Soap Awards 2022. The title of All-Time Icon will be announced alongside other familiar awards at the annual ceremony including best actor, best actress, best newcomer, and best villain. Following two years of virtual ceremonies, the awards are due to return as an in-person event in London in October – which also marks the show’s 30th anniversary.
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