[Smithy]

Michelle Keegan has confirmed reports that she has quit Coronation Street.

The actress, who appeared on screens as feisty Tina McIntyre in 2008 and has been voted 'Sexiest Female' four times at the British Soap Awards, will leave next year after six years with the soap.

Keegan told itv.com: "I have had the most amazing six years at Coronation Street and it was such a difficult decision to leave. But I felt it was the right time for me to make the next step in my career.

"I will miss Tina and will always be grateful to ITV and Coronation Street for giving me such an amazing role to play for my first ever acting job. Most of all I will miss the amazing people who work on the show, my acting colleagues, cast, crew, producers and writing team. I have met people who I know will be friends for life.

"I am very excited about what the coming months hold for Tina and what the future has in store for me."

A busy time on screen for Tina begins next month when she gives birth early to the baby she is carrying for Izzy Armstrong and Gary Windass.

Producer Stuart Blackburn added: "There is more than a year of drama to come for Tina McIntyre before we bid farewell to Michelle and plans are already being made for what will be a powerful and gripping story.

"We will be sorry to see Michelle go but wish her every success for the future."


Tina has been involved in a number of dramatic storylines since appearing on the cobbles, including her turbulent relationship with David Platt that resulted in an abortion, the death of her father Joe McIntyre and accusing his partner Gail Platt of murder, and most recently acting as surrogate for Gary and Izzy.

Keegan is currently dating former The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright. However, a friend of the actress told The Sun: "This is totally Michelle's decision and what is best for her career. It has nothing to do with wanting to spend more time with Mark."

The 25-year-old was reportedly keen to leave when her contract expires in November, but show bosses persuaded her to stay another six months to May 2014.