Emmerdale star Roxy Shahidi is rumored to be departing the ITV soap after 16 years, and fans believe they’ve uncovered Leyla Harding’s dramatic exit plot.
Emmerdale veteran Roxy Shahidi is reportedly stepping down from her long-running role as Leyla Harding after 16 years on the ITV soap.
Leyla, who made her debut in 2008, is widely recognized as the mother of Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant) and the ex-wife of Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson).
Rumors are circulating that Leyla’s departure will come in a dramatic, gripping storyline aimed at shocking viewers. This follows a landmark year for Roxy Shahidi, who participated in Dancing on Ice and appeared in ITV’s Drama Queens.
An insider told The Sun: “Roxy has cherished her time on the soap and made countless happy memories since joining at just 17. The cast has become like family, and she’s grown tremendously as an actress. But now, she feels it’s the right time to explore new opportunities.”
Although the details of Leyla’s rumored exit remain under wraps, fans are buzzing with speculation. Many believe her departure could involve her meeting a tragic end at the hands of Ella Forster (Paula Lane), the new partner of Leyla’s ex, Dr. Liam Cavanagh.
Social media has been buzzing with fan theories, with one viewer speculating, “Something to do with Ella maybe?” Another added, “She hasn’t had a storyline in ages. Wondering if Ella is going to kill her—she seems the jealous type,” according to Leeds Live.
Another fan pondered, “Maybe Ella will kill her if she thinks Leyla is getting too close to Liam again. She could become jealous and want her out of the picture.”
Long-time viewers will remember that Ella has a dark past, having committed murder at just 11 years old, fueling suspicions about what her character is capable of now.
Roxy Shahidi has been involved in intense Emmerdale plots, such as last year’s storyline where her character, Leyla, was stalked and kidnapped.
Beyond the soap, Roxy has cultivated her expertise as a yoga instructor, founding the Yoga Lunch Club. She also shares yoga tutorials on her YouTube channel, highlighting her passion for health and wellness.
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