Popular Coronation Street star quits soap after nine years
She will leave in 2018
Last updated 4th Jul 2017
Actress Debbie Rush has made the decision to quit her role on Coronation Street after nine years on the show.
Debbie, who's played the role of Anna Windass since 2008, has become one of the soap's most famous faces over the last few years, with a string of big storylines to her name.
Coronation Street © ITV Pictures
Speaking to a national newspaper about her decision to quit the ITV soap, Debbie said, "I have had an amazing nine years on Coronation Street and the decision to leave was not made lightly. I love playing Anna and will miss working with the fantastic cast and crew."
She added, "I don't know what the future holds but I am excited to explore what other acting opportunities are out there."
The actress also thanked Coronation Street bosses for her time on the show when she added, "I am very grateful for all the brilliant storylines I have been given during my time on Coronation Street and am very much looking forward to what is in store for Anna in the run up to my departure next year."
Debbie Rush © PA Images
It's being reported that Debbie will continue to portray the role of her character Anna until late 2018, with bosses planning a big storyline for her exit.
Debbie first joined the famous cobbles back in 2008 with the Windass family and has certainly had her fair share of heartache since.
Her friendship with Roy Cropper after he lost his wife Hayley melted the hearts of the nation. Things then got more serious for the character when she was blackmailed into sex by bad boy Pat Phelan.
As well as finding out her teenage daughter was pregnant and sleeping with Kevin Webster, Anna was involved in the explosive car crash which was caused by David Platt not long after the tragic death of his wife Kylie.
Anna was badly burnt in the crash, with viewing witnessing her recovery process on the show.
As well as Coronation Street, Debbie has also starred in Hollyoaks and Channel 4 show Shameless.
Coronation Street continues on ITV.