She has been on the show for 13 years, so it’s only natural for the Emmerdale cast to be upset over Sammy Winward’s shock departure from the show.

The actress, who found fame playing the role of Katie Addyman in the popular soap, reportedly announced that she is to quit the show next year.

Referring to 29-year-old Sammy’s popularity with cast, crew and fans alike, a source told The Sun: “Sammy is the Michelle Keegan of Emmerdale so everyone is gutted that she’s leaving.”

“She’s hugely popular and her character has been a big part in the show overtaking Eastenders,” they added.

While Sammy is reportedly keen to take up other acting opportunities, fans need not despair just yet, as the actress has supposedly asked for her character to be kept alive after her exit.

Sammy was just 15 years old when she joined the soap as stable manager Katie. She went on to have a rather complicated romantic relationship with character Andy Sugden, and has been at the centre of some of the show’s biggest plotlines.

While fans will no doubt be sad over Sammy’s departure from the show, it will be exciting to see what’s next for her!