Paula Lane has quit ‘Coronation Street’.
The 29-year-old actress – who has played Kylie Platt in the ITV soap for five years – recently revealed she will welcome her second child with husband Tom Shaw in the summer and has now confirmed that she will bow out of the soap before the baby is born.
She tweeted: "So it’s official, I can now confirm I’m leaving Coronation Street this summer after a wonderful 5 years. It’s time to fly the nest…"
Paula – who will leave after taking part in a "huge top-secret storyline" – added in a statement: "This has not been an easy decision for me to make.
"I have enjoyed every moment of my time on ‘Coronation Street’ and learnt so much in the process.
"I have an amazing on-screen family who have become friends for life, so this decision was not taken lightly.
"But sometimes you just have to follow your heart and I am excited about what the future has to offer both personally and professionally."
Producer Stuart Blackburn added: "Paula is one of the most talented and dedicated actors I know and in Kylie she has created an unforgettable ‘Corrie’ character.
"I for one will miss both the character and the actor and on behalf of all at ‘Coronation Street’ wish Paula all the love and luck in the world and I’m certain that Paula’s future will be full of continued success."
Paula’s co-stars took to Twitter to wish her well, with Jane Danson, who plays Leanne Battersby, writing: "Me and Leanne will miss you heaps. Lots of love, happiness and success for the future Hun xx."
Brooke Vincent, who plays Sophie Webster, added: "I’m definitely going to miss you. Our beautiful yummy mummy" and Sally Ann Matthews, who stars as Jenny Bradley, said: "To wonderful new adventures."
Paula Lane quits Coronation Street
