Coronation Street's Alex Bain emotional message before he's seen at leaving party amid Simon Barlow exit

Coronation Street star Alex Bain shared an emotional message with fans before being seen at what appeared to be his leaving party as he prepares to exit the ITV soap as Simon Barlow. Rumours about the actor's impending exit have been swirling for months.

It was reported over Christmas that Alex was set to leave the role after 15 years. Loyal fans of the show may remember that Alex first appeared on the cobbles as Simon aged seven and over the years he has been involved in some big storylines, including drug dealing, and his mother Lucy's death.

While his exit is yet to be officially confirmed by Corrie, the soap star himself seemingly confirmed he'll soon be waving goodbye to Weatherfield when the 20-year-old posted a photo to his Instagram Story last month showing himself in the mirror of his dressing room.

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Alongside it he wrote: "Well my day is done! Nice and short day today! I'm gonna miss this little space some dearly when I go!" He added: "So glad I've got some shooting days left! So thankful!"

He has since returned to Instagram and emotionally shared how his time on the Salford-based set was rapidly coming to an end. Sharing another selfie from his dressing room, the dad-of-one commented: "I can't believe this is nearly over!" adding a crying and a red heart emoji.

Alex added: "I am going to biss this place so dearly!" It now appears he's marked the end of his almost two decades on the famous street by gathering alongside some of his past and present castmates for a celebration.

Jack James Ryan, who played Jacob Hay