Emmerdale’s Lucy Pargeter has admitted she was “gutted” after her co-star’s exit from last night’s show. Fans were devastated after Wedenesday’s dramatic episode that saw Leyla Harding die in heartbreaking scenes.
The character has been a fan favourite in the fictional Yorkshire village since she first appeared on the show in 2008. She arrived in the Yorkshire village to work with Eric Pollard at the factory and became romantically involved with David Metcalfe. Their romance blossomed before they bought Farrers Farm together and looked set to enjoy a settled life in the village.
However their relationship was rocked when it was revealed Leyla was Jacob’s biological mum and she soon departed. Roxy temporarily exited the cast when her character was written out in 2011, but returned two years later when Jacob tried to get back in touch with her and had been a mainstay ever since.
Her stint in the village came to an end in dramatic style as she was confirmed as one of the causalities of the dramatic limo crash. Viewers were in tears as Jacob discovered his mum lying dead in Wednesday’s show.
Lucy is renowned for her role as Chas Dingle in the soap and her character has survived the crash. The actor has taken to social media to pay tribute who she developed such a close bond with during her time on the show.
She said: “Beautifully acted and this woman is the most incredible strong friend and hilarious woman. Gutted.” Roxy reshared the post and issued a heartfelt tribute as she said: “Love you @lucypargeter.”
Roxy Shahidi departed Emmerdale in heartbreaking scenes last night
Viewers following the show on social media platform X were devastated after the sad scenes were aired last night. Amrita said: “Will really miss Leyla in @emmerdale though.
“Such an iconic character. The limo in the lake track has been so gripping in a way only #emmerdale does best!” Cinders posted: “I cried tonight leyla has gone”
Darryl commented: “Leyla was in my top 5 of favourite Emmerdale characters. She was funny, she said it all with her face. Stunning, sarcastic and just a great character. She’ll be missed. R.I.P Leyla @roxyshahidi all the best for the future.”
Katie posted: I loved Leyla straight from when we first met her, Feisty, Funny, Boss and her relationship with Alicia i adored so much This one hits hard.”