"It feels like the right time."

In news that's sure to devastate Coronation Street fans, Kym Marsh has announced that she's leaving the soap. Kym first appeared on Corrie in a cameo role, playing Michelle Connor, back in 2006. Her popularity with viewers landed her a permanent role on the soap. "When I was lucky enough to be offered four episodes I could never in my wildest dreams have thought I’d be here 13 years later," she told The Sun. “It’s been an incredibly difficult decision but it feels like the right time for me to explore some other roles.” The news is said to have disappointed the show's producers. Executive producer John Whiston said that Kym had brought "heart and humanity" to Corrie. "We will be really sad to lose her when she goes but totally understand that, after dedicating herself to the show for so long she now fancies trying something else." It's not yet clear when Kym will be leaving our screens or what's next for her. She and the Corrie bosses have agreed to leave the door open for the character. Kym has earned praise for taking on some heavy storylines as Michelle, including the stillbirth of a baby in 2017. The actress had had a baby boy who was stillborn herself in 2009.