Coronation Street star issues 'emotional' update after soap undergoes major change

Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon has confessed that the soap's recent significant change marks "the end of an era".

With nearly 65 years of captivating audiences, has solidified its place as a British television institution, having drawn in over 20 million viewers per episode during its peak.

Two of the show's longest-serving and most beloved stars, Helen Worth and , have been instrumental in its enduring success, boasting an impressive combined 75 years on the iconic cobbles.

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In a poignant turn of events, both soap legends have decided to bid farewell to Coronation Street within months of each other. Helen, 74, was the first to announce her departure last June, expressing her gratitude for working alongside "fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew".

She reflected: "The past 50 years have flown by and I don't think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet."

Following Helen's emotional Day exit, Sue Cleaver joined her in leaving the show to explore new projects. A fan favourite since her debut, Sue's departure has been deeply felt, reports .

In an interview with Prima magazine, their former co-star Samia Longchambon shared her thoughts on the recent goodbyes: "Saying goodbye to Helen Worth (Gail Platt) after her 50 years was really emotional. But I completely agree with her that she deserves a rest now."

Meanwhile, she noted that the exit of Sue marked a poignant moment as they had both started on the show in the same month.

She expressed: "It was saying bye to Sue (Cleaver, who played Eileen Grimshaw), too, because we actually joined the same month and her dressing room was next door to mine, and then moved into it."

Acknowledging the departure of two key players, she conceded that it represented a significant turning point for the soap: "So it did actually make me think, 'God, that's the end of an era'."

The much-anticipated final appearances of Eileen on the beloved programme will broadcast next week, culminating after distressing events including the loss of her sister, Julie Carp (portrayed by Katy Cavanagh). Eileen decides to start anew, accepting Jason's invitation to settle in Thailand with him and invest in his business endeavor.

Catch the latest drama in Coronation Street as it continues on tomorrow night (May 30) at 8pm.