Billy’s been keeping a big secret! He arrives on Mack’s doorstep bloodied and bruised.

The character, who made her arrival way back in 2008, is mum to Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant) and the ex-wife of Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson).

The 41-year-old actress, who has been a staple on the show since her debut, will have her character killed off in an intense exit storyline that promises to leave fans shaken.

The character, who made her arrival way back in 2008, is mum to Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant) and the ex-wife of Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson).

The 41-year-old actress, who has been a staple on the show since her debut, will have her character killed off in an intense exit storyline that promises to leave fans shaken.

The news of Shahidi’s departure comes after a stellar year in her career, which saw her take part in Dancing on Ice and ITV’s reality series Drama Queens.

A source close to the actress told The Sun of her excitement about this new chapter: ‘Roxy has adored her time on the soap and has made so many happy memories since first joining when she was just 17.

‘The cast have become like family to her, and she has grown so much as an actress. But now, she feels it’s the perfect time to spread her wings and try something new.’

While the details of Leyla Harding’s death are being kept under wraps, it’s clear that the storyline will be a major event in Emmerdale.

Shahidi is thrilled to have such a powerful exit, with the source adding: ‘She’s really excited about her meaty exit storyline, which will see her character Leyla die on screen. She’d rather go out in a blaze of glory and be remembered.’

Shahidi first joined Emmerdale in 2008, quickly becoming a fan favorite with her portrayal of Leyla, a charismatic wedding planner.

Over the years, her character has been at the heart of several dramatic plotlines, from turbulent romances and family conflicts to overcoming personal struggles like addiction.

She recently expressed her deep love for Emmerdale, telling fans how much she appreciates the opportunity to play such a dynamic character for so long: ‘It’s been an incredible journey. The people I’ve worked with over the years have become like family, and I’ll always cherish the memories we’ve made together.’

For fans, however, saying goodbye to Leyla Harding will be bittersweet as her character has been a fixture in the Emmerdale village for more than a decade.

It’s clear the actress is ready to expand beyond Emmerdale.

‘She’s excited to try something new. This is just the beginning of a whole new chapter for her,’ the source concluded.