Huge Hollyoaks star confirms exit from Channel 4 soap saying 'it's been a joy'

Rita Simons has wrapped filming her final scenes as Marie Fielding in Hollyoaks.

The 48-year-old star joined the Channel 4 drama in June 2024, portraying the mother of Joel Deering (Rory Douglas-Speed) and former partner of notorious character Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas).

Marie became pivotal to major plot lines whilst dealing with her troublesome sons Abe (Tyler Conti) and Arlo Fielding (Dan Hough).

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On Monday (September 8), Rita took to Instagram to share a farewell post complete with backstage photographs.

She wrote: "There's nothing more I can post here without giving away spoilers for @hollyoaksofficial 30th anniversary ep! .", reports the Manchester Evening News.

"I will when I can! ... but it's looking incredible. And that's a wrap for me. Thank you gorgeous @hannahrcheers and co for having me! It's been a joy."

Rita's departure announcement prompted an outpouring of messages from devoted viewers and fellow cast members.

Isabelle Smith, who portrays Frankie Osborne in Hollyoaks, penned: "Going to miss you so much."

Ruby O'Donnell, who plays Peri Lomax, responded with three red heart emojis whilst Tyler Conti, her television son Abe, also shared heart emojis.

Soap enthusiasts will recall Rita's portrayal of Roxy Mitchell in EastEnders from 2007 until the character's tragic death by drowning in a hotel pool alongside sister Ronnie Mitchell (Samantha Womack) in 2017.

Rita had previously announced her Hollyoaks exit through an extensive Instagram message to supporters. She penned at the time: "Wanted to share a little bit of news with you. Since Marie Fielding stepped into Hollyoaks village, she's sufficiently messed up all her boys lives, Caused ALL the carnage and fallen off the wagon a few time so her job here is done! I'm going to be saying bye bye in the autumn.

"On a personal note, when I first came to Liverpool I was still figuring out how find balance in my mind and body after a total hystorectomy (which was the best journey I ever went on in the end! ) This beautiful, welcoming city has healed me more than I can ever explain.

"I will always have such love for my second home and the wonderful people of Liverpool. But now I feel strong, I can metaphorically walk on my own again, and I need to do just that.

"So It's time to thank everyone at Hollyoaks for being the best tonic I could've asked for. But London and my true home is calling and I have to follow my heart.

"Gone are the days of not listening to my soul. So...Londons calling baby! but before she goes, Marie has a bit more carnage and a few laughs to unleash on the village...so until then ...Thank you all for all the love and support you've always shown me no matter what fictional town I end up in! Where to next! ! ? Marie ..over and out! (Not quite yet! )."

Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am