Coronation Street confirms exit for soap legend as they leave cobbles after 10 years

A cherished Coronation Street actor has said goodbye to the famous cobbles after a tumultuous few months.

Gemma Winter, played by Dolly-Rose Campbell, first graced the soap in 2014 and quickly won over the hearts of viewers. Gemma's existence in Weatherfield has been anything but dull, with a hidden criminal record and four lively quadruplets to care for. Recently on the soap, she has been devastated by the death of her twin brother Paul, portrayed by Peter Ash.

Audiences will remember that Paul was diagnosed with MND last year and tragically passed away in September. Paul's death has deeply affected Gemma, who is grappling with her sorrow more than she lets on. In Monday's episode (October 21), she returned to her job at The Rovers Return, despite her husband Chesney's (Sam Aston) insistence that it was too soon.

Regrettably, things became overwhelming for Gemma at work. A distressed Gemma had to retreat to the back of the renowned pub for a breather, reports the Liverpool Echo. She was later consoled by her brother Kit Green (Jacob Roberts), who mentioned his friend had a cottage in the Lake District and suggested she could visit if she wished.

In a move that will disappoint fans, Gemma chose to take a break from the cobbles. She discussed the cottage with Chesney, who also encouraged her to go, following a challenging few months on the cobbles.

Corrie enthusiasts were clearly disheartened upon hearing that Gemma will be taking a break from the cobbles of Weatherfield. On a dedicated Corrie fan page on Facebook, a user expressed their emotions: "She is playing her character so well and going through hell." Further comments showed support for the actress's need for a respite: "So I'm not surprised she is having time out she just needs time out and find herself again."

Another devotee hoped for her quick return to the show, saying: "Hope she comes back soon," paired with an emoji conveying sadness. One follower remarked on the abrupt nature of the departure: "Seems a bit sudden."

Dolly-Rose Campbell has charmed viewers over time with her portrayal of Gemma. Before her rise in the acting world, Dolly was honing her skills as a bartender, an experience which proved beneficial for her role in the Rover's Return.

Reflecting on this, Dolly once mentioned: "I've worked behind a bar in real life, it was before Coronation Street when I worked in radio. I did hospitality and bar work." The tale of how Dolly secured her role as Gemma Winter adds a sprinkle of magic to her story. Following her audition, a tour around Weatherfield led to a serendipitous moment.

During a recent interview recalling the experience, she shared: "I'd had an audition before the tour but I wasn't expecting anything. While we were walking around my friend said, 'Imagine if you got a job on it' and I was saying that would never happen. Just a couple of days later I got a call saying I had the part."

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX