Amanda Donohoe to leave 'Emmerdale'

Emmerdale star Amanda Donohoe is to leave the soap after nearly two years in the role of Natasha Wylde, DS can confirm.

The actress will film her final scenes for the ITV1 show later this year as her character's dark storyline, involving the death of husband Mark, reaches its climax.

Earlier this year, fans saw Natasha shoot Mark dead and bury him in the woods after the businessman's many secrets and lies were exposed, tearing his family apart. The plotline takes a new twist in next week's episodes when Mark's body is found.

Speaking of her forthcoming departure, Donohoe commented: "My initial contract with Emmerdale was only for a year so the fact I've stayed for two years is testimony to the show's fantastic cast, crew and producers - Gavin Blyth and Steve November."

A spokesperson for the programme added: "We can confirm Amanda Donohoe will be leaving Emmerdale at the end of her current contract. Natasha's story has been central to the drama of the show and her departure gives us scope for an explosive climax as the story takes its final twists and turns."

Meanwhile, a show source told the Daily Star Sunday: "Amanda has had a brilliant time at Emmerdale but decided that the time was right to leave. She told them a few weeks back and they've been working out the best exit for Natasha."

As previously announced, Donohoe's screen daughter Alice Coulthard (Maisie) is also bowing out of the soap.