Alexandra Mardell reflected on her own experiences to portray Emma Brooker’s heartbreak.
The ‘Coronation Street’ actress has a personal connection to her character’s storyline after Emma received the devastating news her father had died, and the soap star has remembered her own dad Michael three years after his passing.
Taking to Instagram, she wrote: "This ones for you Dad. So honoured I was given the chance to take on the story of Emma’s loss.
"This will always be one of the most meaningful stories to play for me. Something so important that I could truly relate to. @coronationstreet. (sic)"
Her co-stars showed their support on social media, with Samia Longchambon (Maria Connor) among those commenting on the emotional post.
She wrote: "You have done yourself so proud, Ali… and your dad. (sic)"
Katie McGlynn (Sinead Tinker) shared heart emojis, and Jennie McAlpine (Fiz Stape) praised her "beautiful" performance.
Jane Danson (Leanne Battersby) added: "Can totally relate, darling, sending you a big hug."
Michael died in 2016 after a battle with cardiomyopathy – a disease of the heart muscle – and earlier this year Alexandra paid tribute to her late father when she started raising money for this year’s Manchester Great Run.
The actress made her first appearance on the cobbles in April last year, and admits she was "star-struck" when she first stepped foot on set.
She said: "It was so surreal so I was a bit star-struck by everyone, but I tried to play it cool. But everyone was so welcoming, so as soon as I got there I felt settled and comfortable with everyone. It was lovely.
"It was quite unusual how much you get recognised you after my first episode. It doesn’t feel like you’re working, it just feels like I’m having such a good time every day with my friends and just enjoying it."
Alexandra Mardell reflects on father’s death for Corrie role
