Fiona Wade, known to soap fans as Priya Sharma in Emmerdale, has shared a rare insight into her life away from the screen. While she departed the ITV soap last year—she continues to take up new challenges both professionally and personally. In a recent interview, she reflected on the joys of married life with former Emmerdale actor Simon Cotton and how stepping away from the Dales has given her a fresh perspective.
Fiona on Marriage and Life Beyond the Spotlight
Fiona has been married to Simon Cotton since 2019—and despite their busy schedules, they prioritise spending quality time together. Simon, a London-born actor and writer, briefly appeared in Emmerdale in 2017 as Home Farm client Hugh Bryant, whose business dealings with Rebecca White took a dramatic turn when his car caught fire. Though his time on the soap was short-lived, Simon has built a solid acting career and got featured in The Fall Of The Krays, The Unseen, Doctors, and Amazon Prime’s Hanna.
Speaking about their relationship, Fiona described Simon as her “best friend” and acknowledged the challenges of their unconventional lifestyle. She shared in a chat with OK! Magazine, “I love time with my husband, as we’re always away from each other — we really don’t live a “normal” life! He’s my best friend.”
The couple recently enjoyed a “magical” getaway to Goa. This trip that allowed them to reconnect away from their work commitments. Beyond travel, Fiona finds joy in simple pleasures. “I love yoga, too—it keeps me calm and focused,” she said. She added, “Hanging out with my lovely mum, my friends… Being in a soap for so many years, I never had that time, so lunch and dinner with friends is precious. It’s the simple things.”
Priya Sharma bid farewell to the village last year after an emotional storyline that saw her accept a job in London. Looking back on her exit, Fiona expressed gratitude for her time on the soap. While fans may still miss Priya, Fiona is thriving—both in her personal life and her next career chapter. We will keep you posted on what happens next in Fiona’s life. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Emmerdale spoilers.
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