Former Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell has explained her decision to exit the ITV soap.

The actor bowed out after four years in the role of Emma Brooker back in 2022, with her

character agreeing to move to Australia with boyfriend Jon after admitting her involvement in his

grandfather’s death.

During a new interview with The Sunday Post, Mardell shared that she wanted to leave Corrie in order to “explore some other characters” and “work in other genres”.

“As a northern actor it was something I always dreamed of doing. There are so many actors whose careers I have followed that started off at Corrie,” she began.

“Playing Emma was so much fun, but I was ready to explore some other characters. For four years I was just learning ridiculously. The stamina you have to have being there sets you up for the best career.

“I wanted to broaden my experience and work in other genres. I love auditioning and doing self tapes, getting new scripts and audition scenes. It’s really exciting doing that again.”

Mardell will next be seen onscreen in the BBC’s upcoming queer drama Smoggie Queens, which will begin with a double bill on BBC Three this Thursday (November 28).

She plays “self-styled hun” Lucinda – who, along with some other misfit characters, navigates love, life and pride for a town that “feels neglected in its own little corner of the UK”.

Other cast members include RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage, Peaky Blinders‘ Charlotte Riley, Ted Lasso‘s Bill Fellows, Packed Lunch host Steph McGovern and comedian Phil Dunning, who also wrote the script.

Sharing some further details on her character, Mardell told The Sunday Post: “She is lavish and loyal and always in purple for some reason. She loves purple and she is the ally of the group, a really good friend.

“She’s also quite feisty, so don’t get on the wrong side of her. She’s a good egg.”