Coronation Street star Mollie Gallagher was seen making a change to her trademark look ahead of speaking out on her exit from the long-running show. The actress, best known for playing Nina Lucas, is leaving the ITV soap after six and a half years to make her professional stage debut.
Mollie Gallagher's Hairstyle Change
Around the announcement of her departure, Mollie was spotted visiting her hairdresser and altering her appearance after filming her final scenes on Corrie. She was still seen with her jet black locks, having recently ditched the blonde highlights, but sported a shorter look after removing her hair extensions.
Confirmation of Exit
Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Mollie will bow out of the Salford-based programme. A Corrie spokesperson told Digital Spy: "Mollie has created a unique and well-loved character in Nina over the past six and a half years, and everyone will be sorry to see her go. It is fantastic for Mollie that she has been given this incredible opportunity to play such an iconic role and we wish her all the best for the theatre tour."
Stage Debut in The Silence of the Lambs
Mollie is set to make her professional stage debut as Clarice Starling in the UK and Ireland tour of The Silence of the Lambs. She will appear in the world stage play premiere of the 1991 film alongside fellow former soap stars John Partridge (Christian Clarke in EastEnders) as Dr. Hannibal Lecter, Oliver Farnworth (Andy Carver in Corrie and John Sugden in Emmerdale) as Jack Crawford, and Sam Jackson as Jame Gumb (Buffalo Bill). Thomas Harris's modern classic novel is adapted by two-time Pulitzer finalist and Tony-nominated playwright Gina Gionfriddo. The tour visits Salford's The Lowry from Tuesday, October 6 to Saturday, October 10.
Mollie's Statement
Sharing a poster for the tour on Instagram, Mollie wrote: "THEATRE DEBUT INCOMING… I'm so excited to be playing the iconic Clarice Starling in The Silence of the Lambs world premier stage play with an amazing cast eeeeek. I am so very grateful for this opportunity and I can't wait for it to come to life on stage. UK AND IRELAND TOUR 26/27. Thank you so much @hjbcasting @nikolaifostertheatre @xroads_live and my agent @birdstontalent."
Support from Co-stars
Her Coronation Street co-stars quickly showed their support. Samia Longchambon said: "Can't wait to see you in this Mol!" Sydney Martin replied: "So proud." Tanisha Gorey commented: "So excited !!!!!!!" Elle Mulvaney shared: "So proud can't wait to come and watch you shine." Tony Maudsley penned: "I feel a Corrie night out coming on!! Well proud of you @mollie.gallagher_." Former castmate Charlie De Melo wrote: "See you in Leicester, kiddo!" while Jack James Ryan added: "Couldn't be prouder Mol."
