Emmerdale bosses release statement following tragic death of Leah Bracknell

Former Emmerdale star Leah Bracknell has passed away after a battle with cancer. The soap actress, who left the show in 2005, announced that she'd been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in October 2016, and gave many interviews about her situation to raise awareness.

The Zoe Tate actress was announced to have died on 16th October at the age of 55 in a statement released on behalf of her family, 'Leah had an energy and enthusiasm for life, a kind heart and much love to give to those around her. Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity.'

Show bosses at Emmerdale have now also released a statement, taking to Twitter to write, 'Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell. She was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years.

'Leah was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike. #Emmerdale.'

Fans and actors alike flocked to Twitter to share their sadness over Leah's passing, with many calling her a 'lovely lady' and expressing their grief at the news of her death.

ITV boss John Whiston said how she'd been an inspiration to many as one of the soap's first LGBTQ+ characters, "Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell.

"Leah was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years. During that time she featured in some of the show's most high profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch perfect performance.

"Zoe Tate was one of soap's first lesbian characters and Leah made sure the character was both exciting and credible. Leah herself was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike."

Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.