More sad news for Coronation Street fans - Amy James-Kelly, who plays teenager Maddie Heath in the ITV soap, has announced that she will leave after 18 months. "I made the decision to leave because I’m young and adventurous and I want to gain more experience and explore and improve my craft," the 19-year-old said.
"Acting is my passion and I’m excited to see where it takes me."
The young actress joined the soap in 2013, and her departure is sure to leave drama in her wake. The chracter of Maddie first appeared the soap as a homeless teen, who struck up a friendship and later a relationship with Sophie Webster, played by Brooke Vincent.
Amy James-Kelly
Of her time at the popular soap, Amy added: "I’ve had the most amazing 18 months and I'll be sad to leave my Corrie family. It's been like a second home, but like all young people, you eventually fly the nest. I can't thank everyone enough who made this not only possible, but fantastic."
Stuart Blackburn, a producer on the show, said: "Amy is a talented young actress and we wish her every success for the future.
"We are currently working on an exit storyline for Maddie which will have repercussions for Sophie and other Weatherfield residents."
Amy James-Kelly and her co-star Brooke Vincent
The news comes less than a week after another Corrie actress admitted she was set to leave the soap. Katy Cavanagh, who plays Julie Carp, said that she will be focusing on other projects after starring on the soap for seven years.
The 41-year-old actress added: "However I am looking forward to a new challenge and a pair of flat shoes."
It is expected that Julie will remain on the show until late spring. A door has been left open, however, for Julie to return as a main character.