Rachel Adedeji’s ‘Hollyoaks’ character will make an explosive exit when the soap returns next month.
The former ‘X Factor’ star has departed the Channel 4 soap, and her on-screen exit will air in the week commencing September 7th – when the show is back from its enforced break – as Lisa Loveday departs the village in a "shocking turn of events".
Lisa will attend her cousin Mitchell Deveraux’s (Imran Adams) wedding to Scott Drinkwell (Ross Adams), where she prepares to go public about her relationship with Felix Westwood (Richard Blackwood), but she isn’t aware he is also dating her aunt, Martine Deveraux (Kelle Bryan).
Rachel said: "I have had a fantastic time playing the role of Lisa Loveday.
"I was blessed to have met and worked alongside some of the most talented and professional people during my time on the show.
"’Hollyoaks’ was an amazing opportunity for me to learn and grow as an actress and I am truly grateful.
"As much as I have enjoyed my time on the show, I have chosen to move on. I am looking forward to all opportunities that now await me."
‘Oaks’ executive producer Bryan Kirkwood admitted Rachel has created a "much-loved character" in her four years on the soap, and she will be "very much missed".
He said: "Four years ago we were thrilled to cast ‘X Factor’ star Rachel Adedeji as leading lady Lisa Loveday.
"Rachel made an immediate impact delivering impeccable performances with superstar charisma.
"I would like to thank Rachel for creating such a memorable and much-loved character. She will be very much missed."
However, Rachel recently claimed she experienced racism during her time on the programme.
Following Rachel’s comments, ‘Hollyoaks’ announced they are "investigating", and insisted they have "zero tolerance on racism".
A post on their social media channels read: "Hollyoaks has zero tolerance on racism. We are taking Rachel Adedeji’s comments extremely seriously and are investigating."