Emmerdale‘s Leyla Harding has shared a secret sadness ahead of her exit from the soap.

Last year, it was revealed that Leyla actor Roxy Shahidi was tipped for a shocking exit storyline, with reports suggesting the departure could be permanent.

In October 2024, The Sun reported that Shahidi was set to leave the soap after starring as Leyla for 16 years and that her character was going to be killed off.

While no further details were announced at the time, we know that Leyla is leaving the show this year and it looks like the soap is starting to prepare for Leyla’s goodbye, with tonight’s scenes forming part of the build-up to her exit.

In Friday’s episode, after weeks of being snubbed by her son Jacob, as well as her work colleagues Suzy and Belle, while being desperate for company, Leyla finally admitted to feeling lonely.

Sensing that Leyla was upset, Suzy asked what was wrong, telling Leyla she had been “distant and distracted” all day.

“Ok, fine,” Leyla admitted. “I’m annoyed. With you. We’re friends. We used to do stuff together. Now you’re always with Belle and when you’re not with her, you’re gushing about her.”

She continued: “When you’re not with her, you’re with Vanessa, living your best life.” Turning to Jacob, she said: “And you, you’re always at placement or with Sarah. I’m lonely.”

Following Leyla’s confession, Suzy and Jacob both felt bad and promised to make more time for Leyla, saying they wished she had opened up to them a bit sooner.

Meanwhile, April struggled to get back to normal after living on the streets and told Ross about her secret pregnancy. Finally, Charity uncovered Joe’s affair with Dawn.