Shayne Ward is to leave 'Coronation Street'.
Shayne Ward
The former 'X Factor' winner will bow out of the soap, in which he portrays Aidan Connor, next May in an "explosive" storyline after more than two years in Weatherfield.
A source said: "Everybody wants Shayne leaving to be a huge part of the show next year.
"Bosses are working on it at the moment and have something really explosive planned for the character."
While Shayne's exit looks set to be a huge "TV moment", some 'Corrie' fans will be disappointed to see the factory favourite leave the cobbles.
The source added to The Sun newspaper: "Nobody will see this coming. Viewers are going to be absolutely stunned. It's going to be a blow for the fans -- but also a massive TV moment.
"Shayne has become one of Corrie's most popular actors.
"He's a huge hit with fans and has even won awards for his performances."
The 33-year-old actor's 'Coronation Street' casting was announced in May 2015 and he first appeared on screen as Aidan in August 2015.
He was initially handed a one-year contract as Aidan, a distant cousin of Kym Marsh's character Michelle Connor, and was recently involved in a love triangle with Eva Price (Catherine Tyldesley) and Maria Connor (Samia Ghadie).
Shayne - who previously starred in musical 'Rock of Ages' in the West End - scooped Best Newcomer at the 2016 National Television Awards.
Following his casting, the singer-and-actor admitted it was a dream come true to land the part.
He said: "On hearing the news I had been offered the part on the show I was in total disbelief. It still hasn't sunk it.
"Shayne Ward, the lad from Manchester, given such a role on such an iconic show - it is an absolute dream come true. I'm excited to walk down those famous cobbles.
"My family and friends know just how much this means to me and I cannot wait to do them all proud. 2015 has been a great year for me so far and I look forward to joining the 'Coronation Street' family."
Tagged in Kym Marsh Shayne Ward Samia Ghadie