Emmerdale has announced Elizabeth Estensen will retire from the show and leave her role as Diane Sugden after 22 years.
Elizabeth, who has played the character since 1999, has already filmed her final scenes, although Diane will still remain on screen for "a number of weeks".
Diane has been involved in numerous high-profile storylines over the years, including the mirror maze and death of her sister Val Pollard, being accidentally stabbed by Chas Dingle, and her battles with cancer.
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"For the past 22 years, I have loved playing Diane Sugden – she's kind, reliable, and fiercely loyal," she said. "However, I now feel the time has come to say goodbye.
"Emmerdale will always remain special to me. I've been treated with respect and kindness, and I've had the very best friends and colleagues, both past and present. I'll miss everyone dearly."
ITV's managing director of continuing drama John Whiston paid tribute to the star, saying: "For 22 years, Liz has shone through the screen and into our living rooms as the natural heart and centre of the Sugden family.
"It's a role she has made so totally her own, bringing compassion, humour, and credibility to her portrayal of Diane.
Related: Emmerdale revisits DI Malone murder storyline as Kim Tate gets suspicious
"Whenever she's on screen, as a viewer, you just let out a contented sigh and say to yourself, 'The Queen is on her throne and all is well with the world'.
"And off-screen, you don't get to stay in a soap that long unless you are a truly professional actor and really, really lovely person. Liz is both."
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7pm on ITV, with an extra episode at 8pm on Thursdays.
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