Sammy Winward has quit her role as KAtie Addyman on Emmerdale.
The actress is reported to have left soap bosses "gutted" by her decision to leave after 13 years on the show, not long after shooting Christmas episodes which see her alter ego re-marry Andy Sugden (Kelvin Fletcher).
A source explained to The Sun newspaper: Sammy is the Michelle Keegan of Emmerdale so everyone's gutted she's leaving.
"She's hugely popular and her character has been a big part in the show overtaking 'EastEnders'."
Leaving next year, it's thought that her exit storyline is to be an explosive one, though it's not yet been plotted.
The source continued: "The producers haven't decided yet [if they will kill her off]. 'Emmerdale' love a big death because it's great for their ratings.
"Katie being Katie she sure won't be sailing calmly off into the sunset."
Sammy's now keen to tackle new projects and would love to get a part in a period drama such as Downton Abbey, because of her passion for history.
"She wants to spread her wings and try theatre work and other telly. 'Emmerdale' is virtually everything she has ever known
"She always has her nose stuck in a book and can't get enough of documentaries about bygone days."
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