Emmerdale fans 'work out' who 'kills' Leyla Harding amid shock 'soap exit'
Emmerdale star Roxy Shahidi will reportedly leave the show later this year, with her character, Leyla Harding, being ‘killed-off’ the soap - and fans believe they know who will do the deed. Ella Forster (played by Paula Lane) is at the top of the hit list.
Ella had been previously revealed as a killer, having murdered her childhood friend, Joanne many years ago. Viewers believe Ella could strike again, especially as she’s dating Leyla’s ex-husband, Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson). Currently, there’s chemistry between Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter) and Liam, but fans think that if Leyla gets involved, Ella, who has also been dating Liam, could claim another victim.
The news of Roxy’s departure from the soap, where she’s been for 16 years, came over the weekend (Saturday 5 October). A source told The Sun, "Roxy has adored her time on the soap and has made so many happy memories since first joining. The cast have become like family to her and she has grown so much as an actress, but now feels like the perfect time to spread her wings and try something new.
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“She is really excited about her meaty exit storyline, which will see her character Leyla die on screen. She'd rather go out in a blaze of glory and be remembered." ITV declined to comment when contacted by OK!
The character, made her arrival way back in 2008, as a wedding planner. Now, Leyla is mum to Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant) and the ex-wife of Liam. Over the years, Leyla has been at the heart of several dramatic storylines, from turbulent romances and family conflicts, to overcoming personal struggles like addiction.
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Off-screen, Roxy, who is happily married to fellow actor Arsher Ali and mum to their six year old daughter, has often expressed her passion for the show. She once shared, "I absolutely love being in a soap like Emmerdale , because you're able to grow your character over the years. It's a process you don't really get on many other dramas. And I'm so lucky to play Leyla, because she's such a fun character."
Roxy has branched out on her television career recently after appearing on Dancing on Ice in January. The star took to the ice with partner Sylvain Longchambon, but was eliminated in 10th place.
She also took part in Drama Queens alongside her ITV besties, Lucy Fallon, Jamelia, Ellie Leach, Laura Norton, Jorgie Porter, Rita Simons, Brooke Vincent and Amy Walsh.
