Catherine Russell is bowing out of \'Holby City\' after seven years.
The 54-year-old actress has played consultant surgeon Serena Campbell on the BBC medical drama since 2012, and has confirmed her character will make a "heroic" exit.
Catherine told Digital Spy: "Playing Serena Campbell and being part of the \'Holby\' family has been an absolute delight.
"I just need to get out there, frighten myself again and pretend to be someone else.
"But you never know, hopefully I\'ll be able to revisit the hospital as it really is the most wonderful place to work!"
Serena\'s departure is set to be packed with plenty of drama and unexpected events, following the programme\'s biggest plot lines involving challenging topics such as dementia and the hardship of grief after the death of her daughter Elinor.
The actress has reportedly already filmed her exit scenes - which are due to air early next year - that follow the death of her lover Bernie after a bomb hit her car whilst she was working abroad in Somalia.
Executive Producer of \'Casualty\' and \'Holby City\', Simon Harper added: "Yes it\'s true, the brilliant Catherine Russell is leaving the show. She\'s truly one of the Holby greats, her mercurial portrayal of the unique, drily witty and passionate Serena literally lighting up the screen.
"We are all very sad to say goodbye to her - but it\'s no surprise such a talented actor should want to go and play other roles again after seven outstanding years.
"Catherine, we wish you all the best, while raising a bucket of shiraz to the glory that is Ms Campbell - and I just can\'t thank you enough."
