Emmerdale’s Vanessa star says ‘the news is out’ as she’s flooded with supportive messages

Michelle Hardwick has declared ‘the news is out’ as she celebrated her wife’s major move

**Emmerdale’s Michelle Hardwick** (Image: Michelle Hardwick Instagram)

Star of Emmerdale Michelle Hardwick hailed her wife’s significant step by announcing, “The news is out.” Following the news that Kate Brooks would take over as the new CEO at Coronation Street, the actress—best known for her role as Vanessa Woodfield on the ITV soap opera—shared a message of her own.

Following her time in the same capacity at Emmerdale, Kate was named the new producer for the ITV soap opera, it was confirmed on Wednesday, March 27. She will start work in April 2024 and report to Iain MacLeod, the former producer of Corrie, who took on the task of managing the creative teams that produce the soap operas in Manchester and Leeds. This is a few months after Jane Hudson, the producer of Emmerdale, resigned from her position after five years.

Alongside Laura Shaw and former Executive Producer Jane Hudson, Kate has produced a number of critically praised, thought-provoking, and exciting stories throughout her time on Emmerdale.

These include the arrival of serial killer Meena Jutla, the 2019 return of Mandy Dingle to the soap opera following a 17-year hiatus, Maya’s abuse and grooming of Jacob, Lisa and Zak’s remarriage and Lisa’s tragic death on her wedding day, and Lydia Dingle’s terrifying experience of being raped by a former boyfriend.

Kate has most recently published the tragic and heartbreaking account of Chas Dingle’s diagnosis with breast cancer, his decision to have a mastectomy, and her efforts to raise awareness of BRCA2 gene mutation carriers and how they may also have an impact on men who subsequently acquire the disease.

Regarding her departure, Kate said, “I’ve had a great time working on Emmerdale, and I feel so proud to be a part of a team that has accomplished so much in the last eight years.” I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the programme, and I have had the honour of working with a group of incredibly brilliant, diligent, and lovely people.

“Emmerdale has given me so much more than I could have ever expected, both personally and professionally, and I will always be grateful for that. Thank you Emmerdale; it has been a true joy.”

“Corrie has lit up my living room since I was a kid, so to be asked to produce a show I’ve revered for such a long time is the ultimate ‘pinch me’ moment,” Kate continued when discussing her new work with Corrie. From over the Pennines, I have loved the show and have always been amazed by the talent that is on show, both on and off screen. It is a very special programme, and I will do everything in my power to make sure it stays strong as we move into the next phase. I have always been a part of Coronation Street and I can’t wait to get right in.”

Michelle posted a photo of The Woolpack and the Rovers Return on Instagram after hearing the news, writing, “ROUD WIFE ALERT. It has come to light that my stunning and gifted spouse is leaving the Dales behind to assume the position of Coronation Street Series Producer.

“I know everyone at Emmerdale will miss her happy face and amazing storytelling brain,” she went on. To all of my coworkers on Coronation Street: you guys are really fortunate to have such a fantastic friend. Kate, good luck! Teddy, Betty, and I love you more than anything, @thekatebrooks @emmerdale @coronationstreet. We are all very proud of you.”

Her Emmerdale co-stars also answered right away. Beth Cordingly, the newest Ruby star, said: “Awww. What a lovely post. We’re all utterly devastated. But extremely (reluctantly) glad for you both, as well as for amazing KB. Observe her at @coronationstreet. You’re not aware of your luck.” “Well done Kate, the Cobbles are very lucky, you’ll be missed in the Dales,” said actress Karen Blick, who plays Lydia Dingle in the film.

Actor Ash Palmisciano, who plays Matty Barton, said, “And she will smash it too; they are so lucky to have her.” The actor Lawrence Robb, who portrayed Mackezie Boyd, only answered, “Go Kate!!!” Melanie Hill, a former Coronation Street star, continued, saying, “Excellent news! Congrats to Kate! I’m so happy for you two.”