Amelia Reid-Meredith has made the surprising announcement that she is leaving Shortland Street after six years as the lovable Bella Durville.
“This has not been an easy decision for me to make. I have enjoyed every moment of my time on the show and learnt so much in the process,” Amelia said. “I have decided it’s time to take a break and pursue other projects and opportunities,” she adds.
“I have been thrilled to be a part of this amazing on-screen family, many of whom have become friends for life so this decision was not taken lightly. But sometimes you just have to follow your heart and do what you feel is right at the time, and I definitely won’t say I will never be back!”
As Bella on her wedding day.
She has been a part of the hit drama since her character, receptionist Bella, arrived in 2010 – the eldest child of the Cooper family.
Her fellow TV family members, including on screen mum and dad Matt Chamberlain and Jacqui Nairn have all left the show.
The actress gave birth to her first child, Arlo, in 2015 and Shortland Street’s writer’s wrote her real-life pregnancy into the show.
Amelia will remain on screen until November – and the details of her character’s departure are being kept under wraps.
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