Emmerdale star Paula Lane speaks out on Ella’s exit

Emmerdale star Paula Lane has addressed her exit as Ella Forster – as well as the chances of returning in the future.

Last night’s episode of the ITV soap saw Ella taken away by the police after she finally admitted to drugging Chas Dingle and nearly killed Liam Cavanagh during a tense confrontation in the woods.

Taking to Instagram after the episode aired, Lane shared a video she took just before she filmed her final scenes as Ella back in February.

“Hi all you lovely Emmerdale fans. Today is Valentine’s Day and I’m actually about to go and finish shooting my final scene on Emmerdale as Ella, so by the time you watch this it’s going to be around April,” she explained.

ella forster cries as an injured liam cavanagh lies on the ground, emmerdale

ITV

Related: Best streaming services

“I just wanted to say that I have had a lovely time here. I’ve met some wonderful people and I will really, really cherish the experience.

“I just want to say thank you all for your support and your messages, and I hope you get to see me on some new dramas in the future, or on stage, or wherever life now takes me in my career.”

The soap star went on to assure fans that “everything is all positive” and there are “no negatives to spin on this”, before addressing the possibility of a return to the soap in the future.

“[Ella] is a brilliant character and, you know, never say never. Who knows?” she teased. “Lots of love from me. Over and out.”

Several of Lane’s co-stars were quick to share their support in the post’s comments section, with Mandy Dingle actor Lisa Riley writing: “Adore ya. Thanks for all the laughs and mostly thanks for your, YOU!!! Brilliant to a fault!!! So much for you to conquer next.”

Michelle Hardwick, who plays Vanessa Woodfield, commented a series of heart emojis, as did Ash Palmisciano (Matty Barton).

Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.