Connie Hyde is reportedly quitting ‘Coronation Street’ after two years as machinist Gina Seddon.
The soap star is said to be leaving the cobbles with her alter ego set to be fighting for her life following the factory roof collapse this week and while she won’t be killed off, the character won’t be making a "permanent" return.
A source told The Sun Online: "Connie is still very much part of the Corrie family but Gina’s time on the street has come to a natural end – for now.
"The character could return, but it won’t be as a permanent fixture and Gina won’t be living on the cobbles anymore. She is obviously the second high profile exit this year after Bhavna Limbachia as the soap tries to freshen up the Street."
Gina – who was previously played by Julie Foy from 1988 to 1989 – has been a thorn in sister Sally Metcalfe’s (Sally Dynevor) side since he arrived back in Weatherfield in March 2017.
The report follows speculation from fans that the character could be on the way out after they thought actress Sally dropped a hit during a TV interview this week.
The cobbles legend was praising her co-star during a live chat when she changed from saying "it’s been amazing" to "it is amazing" working with Connie, prompting a flurry of tweets from ‘Corrie’ super-fans.
Sally said: "I have to say it’s been … it is amazing working with Connie Hyde, she’s gorgeous and I love her so much. We’ve been so lucky."
Afterwards, one Twitter user wrote: "Sally just said ‘it has’ been good working with Connie then changed it to ‘it is’ hmmm!! Gina dies? #Corrie (sic)"
Another posted: "Makes me think it’s Gina who dies after listening to how Sally was talking about her (sic)"
One shared: "Looks like Gina is being killed off then #LooseWomen #corrie #coronationstreet (sic)"