Note: This article references subject matter such as domestic abuse.
Coronation Street spoilers follow.
Coronation Street star Farrel Hegarty has addressed her imminent exit from the ITV soap, describing her stint as "surreal".
The actor, who plays Lou Michaelis, made her debut on the soap back in February as the character arrived on the famous cobbled streets with her husband, Mick (played by Joe Layton).
The pair quickly established themselves as nightmare neighbours after clashing with multiple Weatherfield residents, with Daisy Midgeley, Chesney Winter-Brown, Sean Tully, Maria Connor and Gary Windass all feeling the duo's wrath over the past months.
In March, it was announced that the chaotic couple would be exiting the soap following the conclusion of a "major storyline", with their final scenes set to air this summer.
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Speaking about her short stint on the soap, Hegarty told the Mirror: "I've loved it all and even now, a few months in, it's surreal walking on the cobbles. So much has happened in such a short time, and we've caused chaos. I've never had so many arguments!
"Lou is gobby, loud, irrational and it's lovely to be compared to such a big character, like Janice Battersby. You always dream of landing a part like Lou. So to get it later in life, is overwhelming and I cried. I was so happy."
The star described the role as a "dream come true", but added that she "always knew [she] would one day be leaving".
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"Joe and I came in together and will leave together," she added. "How we do it, I can't say, but it's brilliant being part of the show. Watching the other actors is like a masterclass in acting. When I do film my final scenes, I'll probably cry."
Though they will be departing soon, there's still plenty of drama on the cards for the Michaelises. Last week's flashback episode revealed Lou and Mick's secret history with DC Kit Green, with the copper realising he could be the biological father of their son Brody.
In tonight's episode, Mick's nasty side resurfaces as he demands answers about his son. It's later revealed that he has been mentally and physically abusing his wife. Will Lou manage to get away?
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
Read more Coronation Street spoilers on our dedicated homepage
If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, organisations including Refuge and Women's Aid can provide further support and information. The 24-hour, freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247.
The US National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text LOVEIS to 22522.
