Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit

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Emmerdale stalwart Roxy Shahidi is said to be bowing out from her role as Leyla Harding on the ITV soap after an impressive 16-year stint.

The character, who first graced our screens in 2008, is known as Jacob Gallagher's (Joe-Warren Plant) mother and Liam Cavanagh's (Jonny McPherson) former spouse.

Rumours are swirling that Leyla will meet a dramatic end in a gripping storyline designed to jolt viewers. This comes as Roxy Shahidi reflects on a landmark year, having competed in Dancing on Ice and starred in ITV's Drama Queens.

An insider disclosed to The Sun: "Roxy has adored her time on the soap and has made so many happy memories since first joining when she was just 17. The cast have become like family to her, and she has grown so much as an actress. But now, she feels it's the perfect time to spread her wings and try something new."

While the specifics of Leyla's speculated departure remain shrouded in secrecy, it's evident that her exit will send shockwaves through Emmerdale, sparking fan speculation about her potential demise at the hands of Ella Forster (Paula Lane), the new flame of Leyla's ex, Dr Liam Cavanagh.

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Leyla Harding is reportedly leaving Emmerdale (Image: ITV)

Social media has been abuzz with theories, with one viewer speculating: "Something to do with Ella maybe? " Another chimed in: "She hasn't had a story line in ages wondering if Ella is going to kill her she seems the jealous type.", reports Leeds Live.

One viewer speculated: "Wonder if Ella will kill her as she'll see her as a threat if Leyla gets cosy to Liam again and Ella will get jealous and want her out of the way."

Long-term fans may recall that Ella committed murder at the tender age of 11, casting a shadow over what her character is capable of.

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Fans think Ella Forster will kill Leyla in a "jealous attack" (Image: ITV) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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Meanwhile, Roxy has been at the centre of some dramatic Emmerdale storylines, including one last year where her character faced a menacing stalker and was abducted.

Outside the soap's drama, she's honed her skills as a trained yoga teacher, started Yoga Lunch Club, and even offers yoga tutorials on her YouTube channel.

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm

Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit

Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit

Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit

Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit

Emmerdale Leyla 'killed in jealous attack' as fans 'work out' disturbing exit