Jimi Mistry is to leave ‘Coronation Street’.
The actor will exit the soap later this year after his character, gym owner Kal Nazir, is embroiled in a dramatic storyline with a "fantastic" twist.
Speaking about his departure, Jimi said: "When I was told about this storyline I felt it was a brilliant way to say goodbye to Kal and I am really looking forward to filming my departure scenes."
‘Corrie’ producer Stuart Blackburn is keeping details of the plot close to his chest, but it is believed Kal will walk away from Weatherfield as part of the recently revealed storyline which will see Kal’s girlfriend Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) become the victim of domestic abuse at their hands of her step-son Simon (Alex Bain).
Stuart said: "Kal’s departure will be a big part of the fantastic spring and summer of drama on ‘Coronation Street’. We discussed the plot idea with Jimi and we all feel it is a great storyline which will have huge ramifications for the Nazirs and Leanne going forward.
"Jimi is a talented actor and an asset to the show and we will be sorry to see him go, but this is a fantastic exit storyline there are still many twists and turns for the character in the coming months."
Jimi, who joined the soap in 2013, also paid tribute to Stuart and the rest of the ‘Corrie’ family for making his time on the programme so enjoyable.
The 42-year-old actor – whose first major TV role was playing Dr. Fred Fonseca on ‘EastEnders’ – added: "I want to thank Stuart and the team for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a fantastic show. This is the longest I have ever been in one job and I have enjoyed it immensely."
Jimi Mistry to leave Coronation Street
