Emmerdale legend leaves show after 16 years ‘sparking fears of mass cull at ITV soap’

"With people like Lesley and Roxy potentially in the mix, nobody feels safe.

“The show has grown a lot bigger in recent years but soaps are expensive to make. It’s inevitable saving money means losing people – but it’s a huge shame all the same for those involved, their friends and colleagues.”

According to the insider, other cast members are now "concerned" about their own job, as more stars leave the soap.

This latest news comes just weeks after The Sun exclusively revealed how Roxy Shahidi is also leaving the ITV soap and her character Leyla Harding is being KILLED OFF. 

A source close to the telly star said: "Roxy has adored her time on the soap and has made so many happy memories since first joining when she was 17. 

"The cast have become like family to her and she has grown so much as an actress, but now feels like the perfect time to spread her wings and try something new.

"She is really excited about her meaty exit storyline, which will see her character Leyla die on screen. She'd rather go out in a blaze of glory and be remembered."

Roxy, who lives in Nottingham with her husband of 14 years, actor Arsher Ali, 40, and their six year old daughter, recently spoke out about her love of the show.

She said: "I absolutely love being in a soap like Emmerdale, because you’re able to grow your character over the years. It’s a process you don’t really get on many other dramas. And I’m so lucky to play Leyla, because she’s such a fun character."

Over the years Roxy's character Leyla has had some colourful storylines including becoming a pole dancer, being shot and developing a drug habit. 

But in real life Roxy is a trained yoga instructor and focuses on wellbeing. 

An Emmerdale spokeswoman denied to comment at the time.