In a surprising career move, actress Charlotte Jordan has departed the long-running BBC Radio 4 soap The Archers before even making her debut, opting instead for a role in a new television period drama.
A Sudden Change of Plans
The 31-year-old actress, best known for playing barmaid Daisy Midgeley on Coronation Street for four years, had announced her departure from the ITV soap in January. Her final scenes aired in May. A month later, it was revealed she would join the cast of The Archers as Amber Gordon.
However, plans changed abruptly when Jordan accepted a part in the new BBC period drama The Hairdresser Mysteries. This forced producers of the radio soap to recast her role at the last minute. Olivia Bernstone was brought in as her replacement in October.
Behind the Scenes of the Departure
A source close to the production explained the situation to The Sun, stating: 'Charlotte was very excited to join The Archers but when she landed a new TV role she couldn’t do both. Sadly she had to bow out forcing bosses to recast at the last minute.'
The source added that the actress is 'looking forward to return to screens in the new year and has been busy filming the new show.' The Daily Mail has contacted Charlotte's representatives for further comment on the career shift.
Starring in The Hairdresser Mysteries
The new project that prompted her exit is a six-part series described as a 'nostalgic nod to the 70s'. Jordan will star alongside Sally Phillips, who plays the lead, and Charlotte Hope.
The official BBC synopsis for the show reads: 'Everyone tells their hairdresser everything and soon she is at the hub of her new village’s secrets and revelations, and with her own brand of uncannily highly developed, hairdressing intuitive empathy and understanding, solves the village mysteries.'
Reflecting on a Stellar Soap Career
During her tenure on Coronation Street, Charlotte Jordan was involved in several high-profile and hard-hitting storylines. Her character faced a terrifying stalking plot and survived a horrific acid attack on her wedding day.
Her powerful performance in these narratives earned her the British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance in 2023.
Speaking about her departure from the cobbles earlier this year, she said: 'My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish. After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities. It’s been a privilege to be part of a wonderful institution with even more wonderful colleagues who have taught me so much.'
She fondly recalled her emotional final day filming, joking that she cried so much she was 'medically dehydrated'. She praised the crew, saying, 'The Corrie gang made it so special for me.' She also left the door open for a potential return, adding, 'It's just goodbye for now, not goodbye forever.'
