Coronation Street's Adam Hussain has announced his departure from the popular ITV soap after a five-year stint as Aadi Alahan.
Adam stepped into the shoes of Aadi in 2020, taking over from Zennon Ditchett who had portrayed the character for a decade.
The Manchester-based drama is set to bid farewell to several characters this year, with Sue Devaney (Debbie Webster), Sue Cleaver (Eileen Grimshaw), Colson Smith (Craig Tinker), Max Turner (Paddy Bever) and Charlotte Jordan (Daisy Midgeley) all set to exit.
Sharing the news on Instagram, Adam posted a picture of himself alongside his Coronation Street co-stars, writing: "'I guess the secrets out now! As some of you may have heard, I will be leaving Coronation Street for new pastures,' the actor penned, alongside a recent photo of the full Corrie cast.
"Over the 5 years I've spent there I have learned so much about the world and the industry and now feel I am ready to spread my wings a little. I have made friends that will last a lifetime and will surely miss such a special family!", reports the Manchester Evening News.
He concluded: "This isn't a farewell for Aadi however, more like a see you later! I'm excited to see what the future brings! Thank you Coronation Street for giving me such a privilege of portraying this character for you. Until next time!".
Since arriving in Weatherfield, Adam has been at the heart of some intense story arcs, including a daring moment where he shielded his betrothed Kelly Neelan from gunfire. This came not long after enduring a horrific car accident in which his father, Dev, chose to save his twin Asha, leaving Adam to fend for himself.
Upon landing his role on the iconic cobbles, Adam enthused: "I am excited to play the role of Aadi, putting my own twist on him as the character becomes involved in an important new storyline. I was already good friends with Tanisha Gorey, before coming to the street, which helps hugely with portraying the bond of brother and sister."
He also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception at 'Coronation Street,’ stating: "Everyone at Coronation Street has been so welcoming, bringing me in to their family and treating me as one of their own. I have always associated Coronation Street with family and togetherness which is so important at this time."
Eager about returning after an enforced filming pause, he commented: "Having already filmed the start of this story before we had to stop production I look forward to returning as part of the amazing team who bring entertainment and joy to the screens of viewers across the nation."
Adam's initial foray into soap life involved navigating the complex issue of "sexting" as his screen sister Asha faced humiliation when private photos intended for then-boyfriend Cory Brent were leaked.
Colleagues from the show rallied around Adam online, with Channique Sterling-Brown (Dee-Dee Bailey) chiming in with "We love ya" and Tony Maudsley (George Shuttleworth) leaving a message saying: "Awww we'll miss you Adam! ! xxx".
Coronation Street is on ITV at 8pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and available to stream from 7am on ITVX