Hearts around the nation were collectively broken when Felicity (Jacqui Purvis) collapsed during the Home and Away episode that aired on August 12.
With upcoming promos for the soap making it clear that Felicity won’t survive, fans have been left wondering why such a popular character was killed off.
It turns out, the reason for Felicity leaving Home and Away is fortunately a lot less grim than her character’s demise.
Why did Jacqui Purvis leave Home and Away?
It was actually Jacqui’s decision to call time on her Home and Away journey.
The Australian actor told Yahoo Lifestyle that she’s looking to follow in the footsteps of other Home and Away alum – like Chris Hemsworth and Health Ledger who went on to become movie stars.
“I’ve had an incredible time on the show. Some of the best years of my life. However, I knew I wanted an international career, so, I had to make the decision to leave and take the plunge,” she told the publication.
Jacqui acknowledged the opportunity the soap gave her but said it was time for her to take a new direction.
“I owe so much to the show, [and] because of it, I feel confident and ready to take on the international stage. I’m so grateful to the fans for supporting me through my years on the show.”
Home and Away fans react to Jacqui’s choice to leave
Fans grew suspicious that Jacqui was leaving the soap after Back to the Bay reported that she’d been missing from the set since March.
When it was confirmed that Felicity would be killed off, fans took to a Facebook group to share their sadness.
“When Jacqui first started on Home and Away, I just didn’t like her (not that I knew her as a person) or her character, but as time went on I thought, ‘OMG what an incredible actress, brilliant’. I really, really like her now and I’m terribly sad to see her go. I wish Jacqui all the best for her future,” one wrote.
Others believe that Jacqui made the best choice to chase an international career.
“If anyone has a chance of making it in Hollywood she has – great actress on to bigger things,” one person wrote.
“Will miss her on Home and Away but am excited to see where what heights she goes to in her acting career. Good luck Jacqui,” another penned.
“Hope she makes it big in Hollywood if she goes overseas. She’s a brilliant actress,” a third commented.
Now that Felicity’s departure is official, we’re hoping Jacqui drops a blockbuster announcement any day now.
Home and Away airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on Channel 7 and 7Plus.