Louise Jameson has rejoined the cast of Emmerdale.
The acclaimed 70-year-old actress will play Rhona Goskirk's mum, Mary, in the long-running soap.
Louise has enjoyed a long career in television and played Rosa di Marco in Eastenders from 1998 - 2002.
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It is not the first time Louise has appeared in the Emmerdale as she portrayed Sharon Crossthwhaite in 1973, who was the show's first ever murder victim
The soap legend has spoken of her delight at rejoining the Yorkshire village.
She said: "It feels like such a gift to be welcomed into the Emmerdale cast. Playing Zoe’s on screen mum is the icing on the cake.”
Louise 's arrival on the soap is set to cause further drama in the Dales as it will come at an important moment in Rhona's life.
The character, played by Zoe Henry, has a strained relationship with her mother and Mary will attempt to put their past behind them.
ITV bosses said they are absolutely thrilled to welcome someone of Louise's calibre in such as in important role.
Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Louise to Emmerdale. It's great to have such a high calibre and talented actor join our already strong team and she will be a fabulous asset to the show.
"Intelligent, witty and complex, Mary promises to be a force to be reckoned with in the village and for Rhona, there won't ever be a dull moment whilst her domineering mother is around.”
Viewers of the show took to Twitter to share their excitement at the casting announcement.
Samantha said: "Good casting choice, could you also bring Natasha Wylde and Declan back please"
Sorcha added: "Louise Jameson absolute legend… of all the people who deserve to have their mothers in the village it’s Rhona and it’s about time 20 years it’s taken"
Liane commented: "Brilliant news, I will have to start watching Emmerdale again."
Emma posted: "Perfect casting the character she plays will end à lot of fan curiosity"
Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7pm on ITV and ITV Hub with an additional episode at 8pm on Thursdays
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