EMMA’S SHOCK EXIT

Is Emma heading for a new life with Jon – or prison for killing his grandad? We ask Corrie’s Alexandra Mardell

Emma leaves Weatherfield this week after her boyfriend discovers her role in the death of his grandad – but will she get the happy-ever-after she’s dreamed of or find herself under arrest?

Corrie’s ditzy barmaid – who’s won legions of fans with her daft comments, relentlessly positive outlook and never-ending search for love – has struggled to cope after doing a runner when she and friend Faye accidentally knocked down the OAP, who subsequently died.

Emma’s guilt was compounded when she fell for the man’s grandson, Jon, who has no idea what she did. After Jon offers Emma the chance to move to Australia and open a beach bar with him, using his grandad’s inheritance, Faye confesses.

With a shellshocked Jon facing one of the biggest decisions of his life, will Emma find true love and forgiveness, go on the run, or do time for the crime? Actress Alexandra Mardell, who’s played Emma for four years, is staying tight-lipped but insists she’s happy with how it all unfolds.

‘Emma has always wanted the truth to come out regardless of the consequences,’ says Alexandra. ‘She faces possibly losing Jon because of it, but she’s so honest she could never have kept it in forever.

‘However, it’s still a massive shock for her when Faye blurts out what went on to Jon, especially as Emma had only kept quiet to protect her friend. But, at the same time, she’s relieved it’s come out.’

As for Emma’s future, Alexandra says, ‘This is typical – it’s never easy for her. She’s finally found her perfect man and been offered the perfect life but now the fairy-tale ending might not happen. I’m not going to reveal what happens, but I’d be happy whether

Emma finds love, is arrested, or runs away to live another day... though I can’t say Emma will be happy!’

One thing’s for sure, she’s not being killed off, so the door remains open for a possible return. ‘I’m so pleased,’ beams Alexandra, who’s 28 and from Leeds. ‘Saying goodbye was so hard but the possibility it’s not goodbye forever is a positive. I just hope they keep Emma alive when I’m gone!’

There was a tearful farewell with cast members who showed up to watch her final scene. ‘I was so over

whelmed by the number of people who came to say goodbye that as soon as the director shouted “Wrap” I burst into tears and couldn’t stop.’

Alexandra has a busy year ahead – as well as auditioning for roles, she’s planning her wedding to fellow actor Joe Parker. ‘I’m excited about the future,’ says Alexandra. ‘I’ll miss the people so much and will keep watching the show. It feels like I’m losing a big part of my life – but it also feels the right decision.’