Emmerdale star, Roxy Shahidi, known for her role as Leyla Harding, is set to leave the long-running ITV soap after 16 years. Shahidi has been a part of Emmerdale since 2008 and has been involved in various dramatic storylines throughout her time on the show, including portraying Leyla as a pole dancer, surviving being shot, and battling drug addiction. Married to actor Arsher Ali, Shahidi expressed her enjoyment of playing Leyla, stating, “I absolutely love being in a soap like Emmerdale.” However, after over a decade on the show, Shahidi has decided to explore new opportunities.
An insider has revealed that Shahidi’s exit from Emmerdale will be marked by a dramatic on-screen death for her character, Leyla. The source shared, “Roxy has adored her time on the soap… but now feels like the perfect time to spread her wings and try something new.” Shahidi is said to be excited about her character’s exit storyline and prefers to leave the show with a memorable impact. Fans have been left eagerly anticipating the storyline as they await Leyla’s final scenes on the soap.
Earlier this year, Shahidi participated in Dancing on Ice, showcasing her talent outside of her Emmerdale role. Despite her varied projects, loyal viewers have been missing Leyla’s presence on the show, especially considering her significant connections within the Dales, such as being Jacob Gallagher’s mother and Liam Cavanagh’s ex-wife. As fans speculate about her return, Shahidi’s departure is sure to be a poignant moment for Emmerdale viewers.
Shahidi’s departure from Emmerdale comes as a significant change for the show, marking the end of an era for her character and the impact she has had on the soap’s narrative. While fans will miss seeing Leyla’s adventures on screen, they can look forward to witnessing how her dramatic exit storyline unfolds and the legacy she leaves behind on Emmerdale.