ITV Coronation Street star says his 'heart shattered' after shock announcement

ITV Coronation Street's young star Jude Riordan has expressed his sadness, saying his 'year has been ruined' and his 'heart shattered' after learning of a surprising departure from the show. The news of Helen Worth's decision to leave the soap after an impressive fifty years has sent shockwaves through the cast, with many taking to social media to share their reactions.

Helen Worth, renowned for her portrayal of Gail Platt on Coronation Street, joined the cast at the age of 23 in 1974, making her first appearance a decade-and-a-half after the show's debut.

As she approaches her 50th anniversary playing the iconic character, who has seen her fair share of tumultuous relationships, life-threatening situations, family dramas with her children Nick, Sarah-Lou, and David, and the shocking revelation that her brother was a serial killer, Helen is also preparing for a new chapter in her life. She has announced her departure from the role that has endeared her to millions, set to take place at the end of this year.

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In explaining her decision to leave, Helen shared: "This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world. I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding."

She further stated: "I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew. The past 50 years have flown by and I don't think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet.", reports the Manchester Evening News.

The soap legend, aged 73, is set to begin filming her departure storyline next month, with the poignant scenes expected to air at the year's end.

Jude, who portrays Gail's grandson Sam Blakeman on Corrie, shared his reaction to the news on his Instagram Story, writing: "Heart shattered," accompanied by a broken heart emoji. He continued: "The Platts won't be the same without Granny Gail! How lucky am I to have worked with Helen. She is very special to me."

He also joined his fellow cast members in responding to the announcement posted on Instagram, expressing: "This has ruined my year. Sam can't not have Granny Gail around."

Tina O'Brien, who plays Gail's on-screen daughter, commented: "Can't put into words how much I love and adore Helen," alongside a tear-crying emoji and a love heart. Lucy Fallon, Gail's on-screen granddaughter, simply responded with a tear-crying emoji.

Daniel Brocklebank said: "She will be so missed. We adore her. Samia Longchambon commented: " Samia Longchambon remarked: "We will miss Helen so much! " Colson Smith noted: "A Corrie Icon."

Lucy Fallon simply responded with a tear-crying emoji. Sally Carman-Duttine expressed: "Wonderful Helen, she will be sorely missed. A really special person."

Jodie Prenger added: "A genuine icon."

Alan Halsall, well-known for his on-screen time alongside Helen, took to Instagram to share praises for her, saying: "Wow! ! 50 years [clapping emoji]. A true @coronationstreet ICON. And such a beautiful person too."