*Warning: Emmerdale spoilers follow from the Thursday March 6 episode, which is available now on ITVX, but has not yet aired on ITV*
Tonight’s episode of Emmerdale revealed three enormous secrets which the late Leyla Harding took to her grave. This came as the village held two funerals – one for Leyla, and one for limo victim Amy Barton.
Amid the grieving families and sniping between Matty and Cain, the soap dropped another bombshell – Leyla had been keeping three secrets very close to her chest. Secrets she’ll now be keeping quiet about forever….
Tracy’s struggled to make ends meet since Nate left (Credit: ITV)
Tracy has been stealing from the shop in Emmerdale spoilers tonight
In the first of three flashbacks, Leyla dropped by Pollard’s shop to pick up an expensive bottle of plonk. But, as she repaired her makeup in the mirror, she inadvertently witnessed Tracy pocketing the money.
Confronting Tracy, she learned just how cash-strapped she was – and that Nate hasn’t been sending her any maintenance money for Frankie. There’s one thing Leyla doesn’t know, of course. Nate is dead, chained up at the bottom of the lake where she met her terrible end.
As they talk, Leyla learned the extent of Tracy’s pilfering – putting her £2000 in debt to Pollard. Back at home, in the present, a guilt-ridden Tracy pored over her purse full of Pollard’s cash. Will she carry on her theft now that Leyla’s out of the picture?
Fans knew Suzy had been hiding something (Credit: ITV)
Suzy admitted her love for Mary
In the second flashback, Leyla walked in on a particularly awkward moment between Suzy and Mary – catching them mid-kiss. This came as Suzy admitted that she loved Mary and was going to dump Vanessa for her.
In the present, a devastated Vanessa told Mary how she’d planned to propose to Suzy. Still hiding their secret (and her feelings for Suzy), Mary told her that Suzy would have definitely accepted.
Oh, poor naive Vanessa.
Leyla stumbled across Manpreet’s secret (Credit: ITV/ Composite EI!)
Manpreet’s being blackmailed
In the third, she walked into the surgery to find Manpreet on her computer. She was shocked to see whatever Manpreet was looking at on the screen, exclaiming “was that you?!”
As the episode ended, the mystery of Manpreet’s messages continued to grow, as she read a text claiming to know her little secret. But what did Leyla see on that computer screen exactly? Has Doctor Manpreet opened her own Only Fans?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
What do you think of our story? Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!
Emmerdale spoilers for Thursday March 6 reveal emotions are running high as two of the village’s brightest sparks are laid to rest. But will the funerals go without a hitch?
Meanwhile, Sarah faces up to her positive pregnancy test, but will she tell Jacob?
An emotional day for the funerals in Emmerdale spoilers
Jacob bids farewell to his mum (Credit: ITV)
1. Leyla is laid to rest
Dressed to the nines, Jacob leads the mourners for Leyla’s funeral. She planned the whole thing herself so you can bet it will be over the top – and a perfect tribute to the woman she was.
As the villagers gather outside the church, can Jacob hold himself together to say goodbye to his mum?
It’s time to say goodbye to Amy and Matty is struggling (Credit: ITV)
2. Amy is celebrated
In the woods, Amy Barton is given the send-off she would have wanted. With a wicker casket and surrounded by her loved-ones, Matty leads the tributes to his late wife. He gives an emotional eulogy in honour of the love of his life.
Kerry and Victoria are also among the mourners and Cain is there to support Kyle, who is struggling with his mum’s death. But will Amy be laid to rest without any drama?
Sarah takes a test in Emmerdale spoilers
Jacob has no idea Sarah is hiding her pregnancy secret (Credit: ITV)
3. Sarah is pregnant
After Jacob’s rejection left her hurt and alone last night, Sarah faces taking her pregnancy test without him by her side. She prepares herself to read the result – but what will it say?
After going to Leyla’s funeral, despite Jacob’s hurtful words, Sarah returns home. Here she struggles with the news the test is positive, but will she tell anyone?
Also in Emmerdale spoilers
Why does Manpreet totally overreact to Liam picking up her phone? (Credit: ITV)
4. Manpreet is hiding something
Waiting with Chas and Liam ahead of the funeral, Manpreet is clearly a bit jumpy. When her phone beeps and Liam mistakes it for his, she jumps down his throat, making it clear he shouldn’t touch her phone. Chas is suspicious over what she is hiding.
5. Kerry leans on Pollard
After a difficult day, Kerry and Pollard enjoy a glass of wine together and reminisce about Amy.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
We’re all excited to see what’s in store for the locals of Emmerdale in 2025, but who’s leaving this year? There have already been huge changes to the Emmerdale cast with four deaths.
And now it looks like we’re already getting another exit this year as it’s reported Gail Loman actress Rachael Gill-Davis is leaving after six years.
It isn’t all about the goodbyes, however. The next 12 months will mark the arrival of exciting new faces to the Dales, including newcomer Kammy later in March. There will quite possibility the return of a few old faces too, following the exciting comeback of Joe Tate!
Here is the lowdown on who’s coming and going in 2025.
Who’s leaving Emmerdale in 2025?
Out-there Gail is said to be off (Credit: ITV)
Gail Loman
It has been reported that Rachael Gill-Davis has become the latest person to quit Emmerdale. She has been in the soap for two years, but first appeared six years ago.
Gail is the girlfriend of Ryan Stocks and after a brief appearance in 2019, made a full-time comeback in 2023. Her biggest storyline was the secret son she shared with Ryan – who largely seems to have been forgotten about now!
According to The Sun Rachael agree to leave the soap later this year after her character failed to integrate into village life. The source said: “Rachael has loved her time on the show but it’s time to go.
“Bosses felt the character wasn’t inspiring much story and so it was all very amicable. The door has been left open but it’s a definite goodbye for now.
“Rachael is looking forward to spreading her wings and showing off her talents on other shows.”
Emmerdale declined to comment on the report.
Who else is leaving Emmerdale?
Receptionist Ella revealed a dark past in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Ella Forster
According to reports, actress Paula Lane is bidding farewell to Emmerdale after only a year on screen. Her character, Ella Forster arrived in the village in January 2024, but isn’t long for the exit door.
News of Ella’s imminent departure was revealed on Paula’s talent Spotlight page, which is linked to the star’s Instagram bio. It states that Paula is set to wrap filming on Emmerdale in February 2025. This means that Ella is likely to bow out some time in the spring. Emmerdale Insider contacted Emmerdale, who told us they do not comment on cast member’s contracts.
Ella’s been an interesting addition to the village and has definitely brought the drama. Fans were excited to have former Corrie star Paula Lane back on our screens, and she hasn’t disappointed.
The past 12 months have seen Ella find a new bestie in Mandy Dingle and start a romance with dishy doc Liam Cavanagh. But then came the shock revelation that Ella was a killer and took the life of her childhood best friend when she was just 11 years old. Ella was briefly ostracised by the locals, but hoped she could make a fresh start after discovering she was pregnant with Liam’s baby. Sadly, her dream of a happy family was dashed when Ella suffered a miscarriage and Liam rekindled his relationship with Chas Dingle.
Since losing Liam to Chas, Ella has gone all creepy stalker on us. Her psycho behaviour has led fans to suggest she may even return to the dark side. Will Ella commit her second murder and end up in prison?
Losing Heath and dealing with Pollard’s behaviour have kept Brenda busy in 2024 (Credit: ITV)
Brenda Walker
After 16 years in Emmerdale, 2025 is reported to be Lesley Dunlop’s last on the Yorkshire-based soap.
Although yet to be formally announced, Lesley’s departure was revealed via a recent article in The Mirror.
A source told the publication: “There have been so many exits recently and the talk is of more. With people like Lesley and Roxy potentially in the mix, nobody feels safe.”
“The show has grown a lot bigger in recent years but soaps are expensive to make. It’s inevitable saving money means losing people.”
Emmerdale declined to comment when contacted about Lesley’s rumoured exit, and there are no further details on how her character might be written out.
Brenda has been part of village life since April 2008 and has featured in nearly 1500 episodes. As the co-owner of Cafe Main Street, she’s one of the most loved locals. After a disastrous short-lived marriage to Bob Hope, Brenda found happiness with Eric Pollard. Emmerdale’s longest standing character is played by actor Chris Chittell, who’s actually Lesley’s real-life husband.
Brenda has been Eric’s rock as he’s come to terms with his Parkinson’s diagnosis and was overjoyed when he popped the question. But their relationship and upcoming wedding ended after Brenda discovered Eric had squandered her life savings to invest in a cryptocurrency scam. But with no money left, what will prompt her to depart the Dales?
Who’s leaving Emmerdale – recent departures
Amy Barton died in the lake limo crash (Credit: ITV)
Amy Barton
In tragic scenes that aired in February, Amy Barton was killed off following the lake limo crash. In a week that had already seen the deaths of Suzy Merton and Leyla Harding it was something of a surprise when Amy died too.
She had been stuck under the ice and although Tracy pulled her out, Amy had severe hypothermia. Even though it looked like she was recovering, she sadly lost her life.
Actress Natalie Ann Jamieson posted on her Instagram after the heartbreaking episode aired, thanking fans for their support over the years.
She wrote: “Goodbye Amy. I have had the best six years of my life playing this gobby Geordie with a heart of gold!
“What a way to go – so so proud of the cast and crew who achieved all of this in these last few eps!”
Martelle Edinborough has left as Suzy Merton (Credit: ITV)
Suzy Merton
In dramatic scenes in February 2025, Suzy Merton was killed off. She was travelling in a limo for a girls’ night out with various other villagers and it crashed. Driver Charity Dingle had swerved to avoid hitting Noah who had stumbled dazed and confused into the road. The limo then skidded onto an iced over lake and gradually began falling through the ice.
Sadly, Suzy was killed immediately on impact. She was left in the limo as it sunk to the bottom of the lake.
Martelle Edinborough, who played Suzy, confirmed she has left the soap with a message to followers on social media platform, X.
“And just like that….Suzy is no more and a new chapter begins!! What an ep!
“It’s been such a blessing to have been a part of such an iconic show that I grew up on and loved by so many!!”
We want a happy ending for Leyla (Credit: ITV)
Leyla Harding
Reports first surfaced back in October that actress Roxy Shahidi had decided not to renew her contract.
And now that has come to pass. After the lake limo crash, Leyla was impaled with glass in her side and slowly bleeding out. By the time she got out of the limo she was barely conscious and Kerry and Vanessa had to drag her to safety.
She was taken in an ambulance, however she was sadly declared dead on arrival at the hospital. She had lost too much blood to survive.
Leyla first arrived in Emmerdale in 2008 before leaving in 2011. She returned for a brief spell in 2014 before reprising her role permanently later that year. She was involved in several big storylines, including her romances with David Metcalfe and Liam Cavanagh and the revelation she was Jacob Gallagher’s birth mum.
After her exit scenes aired, Roxy revealed the news Leyla was going to be killed off came as a ‘shock’.
She told Loose Women: “To have been in a show like that for 16 years is such a blessing, it’s something you can’t take for granted. We’re always aware each year, most of us are on yearly contracts so you never know.
“To have done 16 years, I am so grateful, but when I got that call because I kind of knew something was happening… it was a shock.
“When it’s such an epic story, you know it’s going to happen and I think your job is just to process that, do the best you can, and just keep going.”
Who’s joining Emmerdale in 2025?
Bad boy Kammy will be joining Emmerdale soon (Credit: ITV)
Kammy
There’s trouble ahead for Ross Barton and Sarah Sugden as Shebz Miah joins Emmerdale as new village bad boy Kammy. His first scenes will air in March as he steals a quad bike from Moira’s farm.
With the finger of blame being pointed at Ross, Kammy meets Sarah – whose loyalties are divided between Ross and the charismatic stranger.
Speaking about his exciting new role in the soap, actor Shebz Miah, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the cast of Emmerdale. Everyone has been so welcoming and I already feel like a part of the family.”
He continued: “I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better job – the character is such an exciting one to play and Kammy will definitely ruffle a few feathers, but he does have the gift of the gab so although he causes a lot of mischief, I think it will be hard not to like him!”
Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw added: “We are delighted to be welcoming Shebz to Emmerdale as cheeky charmer Kammy. Charismatic, with a very playful spirit, but ultimately kind at heart, Yorkshire lad Kammy promises to bring both excitement and danger to the village.”
Who’s returning to Emmerdale in 2025?
The rumour mill has been in overdrive with fans speculating which former faces might make a comeback in 2025.
Pete Barton is top of the list, and it would be perfect timing given his brother Ross’s recent return to the village. The Barton brothers were caught up in a toxic love triangle with Debbie Dingle. However, they made up and when Pete left the Dales in 2020 he went to join Ross in Liverpool. Are they about to reunited again?
And then there’s the comeback that all Robron fans are holding out for – Aaron’s soulmate, Robert Sugden. There’s some serious unfinished business between these two and we’d love to see Robert and half-brother John go toe to toe for the man they love.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
*This article is updated regularly to reflect the ongoing changes within the Emmerdale cast.
According to her son Jacob – who frankly could have done with the support of his adoptive parents Alicia and David – they had excuses about not showing up. Alicia, we heard, has a broken leg, while David couldn’t come because his son Theo was poorly.
Nah, we didn’t think they were good enough reasons either, but hey ho.
Leyla being done dirty after her death led us to think about other Emmerdale characters who have gone out with a whimper rather than a bang.
Here’s our round-up of everyone who we think didn’t get the ending they deserved.
Harriet liked a bad boy – don’t we all?! (Credit: ITV)
Harriet Finch
We are still salty about how Harriet’s life in Emmerdale came to an end.
She was killed during the storm in the dramatic episodes marking Emmerdale’s 50th anniversary. Harriet had been in the village for several years as a police officer and as a vicar. She was part of the village for almost a decade and involved in some pretty big stories. But her funeral was understated. On-screen at least.
We don’t actually know what it was like because we didn’t get to see it!
Viewers saw some mourners including Will Taylor and his daughter Dawn Fletcher, head off to say goodbye to Harriet. Later we had a brief glimpse of the wake, but that was it. Very disappointing for such an important character!
Poor Suzy doesn’t get an on-screen funeral (Credit: ITV/Composite: EI)
Suzy Merton
Another off-screen funeral happens this week, when Suzy is laid to rest away from the village. She may never have had the dramatic stories other characters had, but she was really important in Emmerdale.
Her links to Holly Barton’s death, her being the catalyst for Leyla’s addiction, her romance with Vanessa, all meant she was a cog in the wheel of all sorts of drama. She deserved a better send-off than one we didn’t even see.
Frank’s funeral was shunned by the villagers who thought he was a thief (Credit: ITV)
Frank Clayton
When Frank Clayton died in a fire at the Sharmas’ sweet factory, everyone in the village thought he had stolen money from the safe before the explosion.
In truth, it was Kerry Wyatt and her daughter Amy who had nicked the cash. And not only were they the thieves, they had also started the fire by tampering with the CCTV in an attempt to cover their tracks.
Frank’s funeral was a muted affair, with everyone thinking he’d committed the crime. Of course, with Amy’s death in the frozen lake, it feels like justice has been done now but everyone still thinks Frank’s a criminal.
Carl killed his dad but no one knows! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Tom King
Tom King – the original, not his evil, abusive grandson – was murdered when he was pushed through a window on his wedding day.
There was a line-up of suspects at the time, but eventually Carl confessed to his brothers Jimmy and Matthew that he’d pushed their dad. Carl eventually died at the hands of serial killer Cameron Murray. But though the truth came out among the family, no one else ever found out who the murderer really was. Which is a little bit odd.
Rebecca White died off-screen (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rebecca White
We loved Rebecca White and we loved her romance with Ross Barton. So when Ross arrived back in the village without her, we weren’t happy. And we were even less happy when he revealed she had died!
It just feels so unnecessary to have her killed off screen and take away the little hope we had that she might return one day.
Heath’s funeral was a very old-fashioned affair with none of his friends or siblings (Credit: ITV)
Heath Hope
Heath was a sweet-natured, music-loving teen who was killed horribly in a car accident last year. His funeral was a strange affair – old-fashioned and sombre with none of his friends in attendance.
And it wasn’t just Heath’s friends who were missing. He had his twin sister Cathy, of course, but Heath’s dad Bob also has many other children – Josh, Jamie, Carly and Roxy who weren’t even mentioned.
And Heath’s late mum Viv was also mum to Scott – and stepmum to Kelly – who didn’t make an appearance either. Poor Heath really didn’t get the send-off he deserved.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
What do you think of our story? Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!
Fans of Emmerdale have been left fuming at two notable absences as the village prepares for Leyla’s funeral. This comes as Jacob was forced to say goodbye to mum Leyla Harding when she was killed in last month’s limousine crash.
Alicia was Leyla’s sister and is Jacob’s biological mother. Alicia left the soap in 2015, beginning a new life in Portugal with Jacob. While he returned, she did not – and hasn’t been seen since.
David, meanwhile, was a father figure to Jacob through his relationships with both Leyla and Alicia. He left the soap in 2023, after learning of Jacob’s relationship with partner Victoria.
While Jacob and David didn’t part on the best of terms, it’s still a surprise that he wouldn’t return in Jake’s time of need.
David left Emmerdale in 2023 (Credit: ITV)
Why aren’t David and Alicia returning to Emmerdale?
Jacob revealed this week that neither Alica nor David would be attending Leyla’s send-off. Their excuses? Alicia has a broken leg, and is therefore unable to travel from Portugal to the village.
David, meanwhile, is absent as son Theo is ill. In real-life, that’s because actors Natalie Anderson and Matthew Wolfenden are no longer in the soap, with no plans (as yet!) to return.
But for fans, that excuse isn’t good enough.
Alicia’s excuses aren’t good enough for some (Credit: ITV/YouTube)
David and Alicia should be at Leyla’s funeral, Emmerdale fans demand
Writing on social media as this week’s scenes aired, viewers shared their frustration at the missing characters.
“It’s ridiculous that neither Alicia or David ain’t coming. I understand that David and Jacob are not on the best of terms but I feel like he still would have came to pay his respects to his son mother no matter what. Then they wrote some lame excuse about Alicia breaking her leg are you kidding me?” asked one fan on Reddit.
“Recast and better reasons are options here. E.g. Alicia is on a cruise, something that would actually prevent her from attending the funeral of her sister and supporting her child rather than an inconvenience,” another ageed.
“Who needs enemies when you have family like David and Alicia,” joked a third, over on X.
“I’s ridiculous, writers should check if actors would come back before writing someone’s exit. They should have just shoved Leyla in a taxi, it makes more sense than Alicia not bothering to turn up to support Jacob,” said a fourth.
Has Emmerdale ruined Leyla’s exit with a poor send-off?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
What do you think of our story? Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!
In Emmerdale spoilers, Sarah discovers she’s pregnant with Jacob’s baby on the day of Leyla’s funeral. With their relationship already on shaky ground, will Sarah be able to tell Jacob he’s going to be a daddy?
Sarah is concerned for grieving Jacob (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale spoilers: Jacob is spiralling out of control
Jacob’s world has been shattered by his mum’s tragic death. Leyla was one of the victims of the devastating limo crash, which also claimed the life of her colleague, Suzy. Although Leyla managed to escape the vehicle before it sunk into the frozen lake, her injuries proved fatal. Jacob was working in A&E at the time Leyla was brought into hospital, but there was nothing he could do to save her.
A couple of weeks on from his terrible loss, Jacob remains in a state of shock. He still blames Noah for Leyla’s death after Charity was forced to swerve the limo to avoid hitting him. Jacob has also thrown himself straight back into work, but is not coping. As things become too much the trainee doctor ends up suffering a panic attack while on shift.
Later, Jacob turns to alcohol to numb his pain as he downs drinks with Rich at the Hide. Belle and Laurel witness his worrying behaviour and fear Jacob is spiralling. Even Rich can see that his friend needs help, but will Jacob admit it?
Sarah is hiding a pregnancy test in her handbag (Credit: ITV)
Sarah feels rejected by Jacob
By the time Sarah arrives to speak to Jacob he’s in a complete state. She attempts to get through to her boyfriend, but he dismisses her concern and orders Sarah to stay away.
Sarah is deeply wounded by Jacob’s rejection and it soon becomes clear why as she nervously eyes up an unopened pregnancy test in her bag. But she decides not to tell Jacob about their maybe baby, realising he’s already got enough to deal with.
Sarah tries to tell Jacob about the baby at Leyla’s funeral (Credit: ITV)
Sarah is pregnant in Emmerdale spoilers
Next day, it’s time for the locals to say an emotional farewell to one of their own. As they gather together for the funeral, over at Jacobs Fold, Sarah is preparing to find out if she’s in the family way.
After taking the test, Sarah waits a while before reading the result and to her horror it’s positive. Fans predicted Sarah’s pregnancy back in January after she and Jacob shared a night of passion. And now it’s a reality.
As Leyla’s funeral gets underway she tries to find the right moment to tell Jacob about the baby, but he declares he’s talked out before walking away.
Feeling completely alone and scared, Sarah carries on suffering in silence. What will she do?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
It’s been an emotional time to be an Emmerdale fan – with last week’s limo crash episodes serving as farewell to Leyla Harding, Suzy Merton and Amy Barton, all in one fell sweep.
With three residents succumbing to a perilous limousine crash on the outskirts of town, viewers were shocked as the soap killed off the women, one after the other.
First up, Suzy. The party planner was killed during the initial impact as the limo crashed onto an ice-covered lake. Next up, Leyla. She had been mortally injured during the crash. She survived long enough for Kerry to pull her for the car, but died in the ambulance on the way to hospital.
Finally, Amy. Poor Amy crashed through the ice (hi Nate) and later died in hospital from the shock. This week, as the village mourns its losses, viewers attempt to come to terms with the death of three major characters.
But what have the actors said about their death scenes?
Poor Suzy was the first to die (Credit: ITV)
Suzy was the first to die in Emmerdale limo crash
As the first to die, actress Martelle Edinborough paid tribute to her character in the episode’s aftermath. Writing on X, she said: “And just like that….Suzy is no more and a new chapter begins!! What an ep!”
She continued: “It’s been such a blessing to have been a part of such an iconic show that I grew up on and loved by so many!!”
Martelle followed up with a post to her Instagram account, where she shared a series of images from behind the scenes of the crash.
In the caption, she wrote: “Well what a Week!!! I am not OK! Talk about an emotional rollercoaster!! Suzy, Leyla, Amy!!”
She continued: “I genuinely haven’t known where to start with this post as there’s so much I want to say and my brain has not been braining so it’s taken a minute. But I’m going to start by saying firstly how beyond blessed and grateful I feel to have been given the chance to bring Suzy Merton to life on your screens!!
“Emmerdale has one of the most incredible fan bases and I can’t tell you how overwhelmed I have been at the amount lovely messages I’ve received this week and for all the love you have shown for Suzy! I did not know she was loved this much to the point you guys had her trending, which I will never get over! Haha but it’s been so beautiful to see so THANK YOU!!!”
In her full statement, she went on to thank the production team and her fellow cast members, thanking the show for having her.
She finished: “Yes, I kept the Orange Coat!”
Leyla was stabbed when the limo crashed (Credit: ITV)
Leyla killed in Emmerdale limo crash
The soap revealed last year that actress Roxy Shahidi would be leaving the soap after almost 16 years. This led to much speculation among viewers whether she had been killed off, or quit of her own accord.
“I genuinely am so excited about a new chapter,” she told the panel. “That’s what life’s about, isn’t it? You’ve got to do new things, you’ve got to challenge yourself. And, sometimes, when you’re forced to do that, it’s the best thing that can happen. Otherwise you’ll just stay within your comfort zone.”
She continued: “To have been in a show like that for 16 years is such a blessing, it’s something you can’t take for granted. We’re always aware each year, most of us are on yearly contracts so you never know.
“To have done 16 years, I am so grateful, but when I got that call because I kind of knew something was happening… it was a shock. When it’s such an epic story, you know it’s going to happen and I think your job is just to process that, do the best you can, and just keep going.”
Amy was the third victim of the limo crash (Credit: ITV)
Posting to her Instagram account, she wrote: “Goodbye Amy. I have had the best six years of my life playing this gobby Geordie with a heart of gold! What a way to go – so so proud of the cast and crew who achieved all of this in these last few eps!â€
She admitted she has “so many more amazing things to say†about her time on the show. However, she doesn’t have the words yet.
She continued: “For tonight, I just want to say thank you for everything! And thank you to every one of you who came on the journey with me. And for all your beautiful messages you have sent to me.
Natalie Ann Jamieson confirms shock as Amy dies in Emmerdale limo crash
In an interview with The Mirror, she revealed that Amy’s death had come as a shock to her also. “I had been asking for meetings about what was coming up for Amy and saying that I’d really like some challenging, new stuff,” she said.
“They knew they had this coming up and they didn’t have anything planned for Amy – and that was the direction that I wanted to go in. It worked out that this was going to be Amy’s exit and I didn’t know it was going to be death at first.”
She continued: “When they told me, I was like, “Oh!” It’s really hard to know whether you would prefer for your character to die if you’re going, or to go in the back of a taxi.”
Leyla Harding was confirmed as the latest Emmerdale death after the terrifying limo crash. But as she dies, will we see familiar faces return for her funeral?
The Emmerdale ice stunt has had viewers gripped all week as it has claimed the lives of two villagers. In extremely heartbreaking scenes we saw Jacob find out that Leyla had died.
She wasn’t the only one, as Suzy also died on impact when the limo crashed. So, as we’re now looking at two funerals, will David, Alicia and Priya return to say goodbye to Leyla? Here’s everything we know.
Is Matthew Wolfenden returning for Leyla’s funeral? (Credit: ITV)
Will David return for Leyla’s funeral?
It would be weird if we didn’t see at least one of these three characters appear to say goodbye to the Emmerdale icon. David and Leyla had an on and off relationship for years. And as Jacob’s dad, we would expect to see him make a reappearance.
Matthew Wolfenden left Emmerdale at the end of 2023. David cut ties with Jacob after his relationship with Victoria, and headed for a life away from the village.
But now that Leyla’s dead and Jacob is no longer with his dad’s ex-girlfriend, could he come back for the funeral?
Speaking to The Sun about a potential return, Matthew hasn’t ruled it out. Especially as he has just finished his stint in Elf: The Musical.
He said: “Luckily, John Whinston, the big boss at Emmerdale, wrote me a lovely email saying ‘Look, we’re not going to kill you off. That is not me saying you can come back.’ They can’t say that. But the door will be left open for the character of David which was very nice.
“It does give you that option. You never know, I might go knocking on the door and say ‘Can I come back please.’ It’s such a great place to work.”
Surely Leyla’s own sister will be at her funeral (Credit: ITV)
What about Alicia?
Alicia is literally Leyla’s sister. And Jacob’s adoptive mother. So her return seems to be the one that fits the most with the current storyline.
Leyla died putting others above her for the first time in a while. And she thought she had let Jacob down. So wouldn’t it be fitting for those who loved Leyla but didn’t get the chance to show her it, go to her funeral?
Alicia hasn’t been seen in the village in ten years, so her comeback would be huge for the show. And as Natalie Anderson’s time on Hollyoaks came to an end in 2022, could she return as Alicia.
Speaking to The Daily Star during her time on Hollyoaks, Natalie admitted Emmerdale wasn’t her focus at that point.
However, she added: “I still love Emmerdale with all my heart!”
But circumstances change, and a return to Emmerdale after Leyla’s tragic death would be something fans want to see.
It would make sense for Priya to be at the funeral (Credit: ITV)
Could Priya return after Leyla’s Emmerdale death?
The final return that makes sense is Priya Sharma. She and Leyla had a close friendship over the years. And both had previous relationships with David.
In early 2023, Fiona Wade stepped away from her role as Priya. And at the time she admitted she was looking forward to a break from live television. But in 2024 she hit the road touring in a theatre play.
And while fans could be hoping for a Priya return, Fiona admitted last year, that she doesn’t regret leaving the show.
She told OK! Magazine: “It was incredibly kind that they left the door open for Priya. But I trust myself and I know it was the right decision. I don’t want to live looking back, that’s not my personality. I want to live life knowing I fully jumped with confidence. And I think I have done that.”
So out of all three, Matthew’s return as David looks most likely. And as his on-screen dad, Eric, has also been having a tough time lately, if he comes back – maybe he will stick around. And if none of them return, what will be the reasons given? Or will Leyla be forced to have an off-screen funeral which she does not deserve.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release at 7am on ITVX.Â
Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm on ITV3.
Are you upset about the latest Emmerdale death? Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. We want to hear your thoughts!
Leyla Harding passed away in last night’s episode of Emmerdale (Wednesday, February 19), and fans aren’t okay about her death.
The much-loved character passed away in an ambulance (all alone) on the way to the hospital following the limo crash.
And, fans aren’t happy with the soap’s decision to kill Leyla off (and we’re not impressed either!) Now, Roxy Shahidi has addressed her exit in a new interview.
Leyla died after being impaled in the stomach (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: Leyla Harding’s death
Leyla thought that the girls’ night out in the limo was going to be the perfect chance to kill her loneliness. But, it ended up killing her instead.
The poor wedding planner ended up being a passenger in a limo crash, as Charity swerved Noah in the road and ended up crashing the vehicle into a frozen lake.
Leyla did her best to hide her injury from everyone else. But, Kerry realised something was up when Leyla failed to move. Kerry then dragged her on the ice and to ‘safety’ but Leyla’s stomach was badly injured and impaled by some glass…
Losing blood, Leyla died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Jacob found the news out on shift in A&E. Running into a morgue (without permission – okay), Jacob then saw his dead mum lying perfectly still.
He then tried to give her CPR but, of course, his efforts were in vain because Leyla was well and truly dead. Heartbreaking.
Fans don’t think Leyla deserved to die (Credit: ITV)
Fans devastated over Leyla’s death as she ‘deserved better’
With Leyla being killed off after almost 17 years on the soap, fans have been left devastated over her exit.
They think that she deserved better than to die in the limo crash, being such a huge part of the show over the years. And, we can see why they’re upset. We didn’t even get to see her die on screen… and for such a huge character, we reckon she should’ve at least been given a death in the Thursday hour-long episode where all the big events usually happen.
And to have her so lonely and having to witness her ex-husband propose to another woman just moments before her death was just cruel!
One fan complained: “RIP Leyla Harding you deserved so much better than the utter [bleep] exit you got x”
Another person shared: “Killing off Leyla is the worst thing these [bleep] could have done! Why not send her to Portugal to live with her sister? She deserved better.”
A third fan commented: “OMG…….. Emmerdale has got me tearing up! The way they killed Leyla off, and her storyline beforehand? Ohhhh they did her character so dirty! Poor Jacob.”
Roxy was shocked when she got the call (Credit: ITV)
Roxy Shahidi opens up on Leyla death
Actress Roxy Shahidi has now spoken out on her Emmerdale exit on today’s episode of Loose Women (Thursday, February 20).
She has revealed that the decision to kill off Leyla came as a ‘shock’ but she’s now embraced the opportunity.
“I genuinely am so excited about a new chapter. That’s what life’s about, isn’t it? You’ve got to do new things, you’ve got to challenge yourself. And, sometimes, when you’re forced to do that, it’s the best thing that can happen otherwise you’ll just stay within your comfort zone.”
She then revealed that she was ‘heartbroken’ over leaving her ‘second family’ at Emmerdale behind.
“To have been in a show like that for 16 years is such a blessing, it’s something you can’t take for granted. We’re always aware each year, most of us are on yearly contracts so you never know.
“To have done 16 years, I am so grateful, but when I got that call because I kind of knew something was happening… it was a shock.
“When it’s such an epic story, you know it’s going to happen and I think your job is just to process that, do the best you can, and just keep going.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
Here’s what happened in Emmerdale tonight, Wednesday February 19.
Leyla was pronounced dead (Credit: ITV)
Jacob was heartbroken over mum’s death
The hospital was chaotic as the victims of the crash were brought in. Jacob, who was on duty at the time, was initially unaware that his mum was one of those involved in the accident.
But he soon run into Charity, who was checking on Noah. Charity told him what had happened, with Jacob rushing off in search of Leyla.
He then came across Kerry and Amy, before finding Chas and Liam. With each meeting, it became clear that Leyla was the person the paramedic had described as “dead on arrival”.
Jacob soon found a doctor standing over his mum’s body. He shouted, “Mum can you hear me? She’s still warm. Why are you just stood there? You should be trying to save her.â€
In emotional scenes, Jacob broke down as he told the doctor: “You don’t know how tough she is. She wouldn’t leave me. She wouldn’t leave her son. You’re not going, I’m not letting you.â€
The doctor told Jacob that Leyla was gone, but he tried to resuscitate her anyway. “You’re supposed to save people, right? Help me bring her back,†he cried.
Later, seemingly accepting that Leyla had gone, Jacob sat with his mum as he told her he was sorry that she had to die alone. “You’re too much of the life and soul to ever be on your own. I hope you know that,” he told her. Sarah soon arrived to comfort Jacob, as he broke down once again. Our hearts, sob!
Kerry sat by her daughter’s hospital bedside (Credit: ITV)
Amy’s life in danger in Emmerdale tonight
Despite having a suspected broken foot, Kerry insisted on being with her daughter.
Kerry was told that her daughter Amy Barton had severe hypothermia from being submerged under water for so long. Kerry asked if they could turn the heat up, but was informed by the doctor that they had to warm her up gradually otherwise it would put too much stress on her body.
Later, Amy’s husband Matty arrived at the hospital and joined Kerry at Amy’s side where they were eager for Amy to wake up.
There were more emotional moments as Matty told an unconscious Amy: “We need you to hurry up and come back to us, all right? And Kyle. We all need you so much. I’m gonna put my foot down over this one.”
But there were scary scenes at the end of the episodes, when the machines started to flatline and Amy’s body started to shake. Doctors rushed in, as a flashback showed Amy in the water with the mystery body again.
Chas was hopeful about Liam (Credit: ITV)
Chas wants to marry Liam
Liam Cavanagh was disorientated following the crash and tonight Chas was told that he had to go for a scan because his suspected head injury was worse than it looked.
The doctor said that Liam’s injury explained the changes in his behaviour and speech. Chas said it sounded bad, with the doctor confirming that it could be.
She was adamant he’d pull through though and told the doctor: “He’s a doctor by the way, so you can be straight with him. You know, when he comes round, which he will do.â€
Later, Chas reiterated her belief that Liam would be OK to Charity, telling her: “Don’t ‘oh babe’ me OK? Because he’s going to be fine. And I’m going to get to give him my answer OK? I am. Because I’m gonna tell him that I do want to marry him.”
Oh we do hope so, we want a Liam and Chas wedding.
Charity was in shock (Credit: ITV)
Charity felt guilty in Emmerdale tonight
After checking in on Noah, the realisation of what had happened hit Charity.
When Mack arrived at the hospital, she asked him: “What is the matter with me Mack? Why do I keep killing people?” We have to admit, she does have quite the track record.
She later echoed these thoughts to Chas. “I was driving. Two people are dead because of me!” Will Charity face any punishment?
Cain told Moira everything (Credit: ITV)
Cain told Moira the truth
After Caleb outed Cain for sleeping with Ruby, Cain knew he had to tell Moira before someone else did.
As he told her what happened, Moira made him repeat some of the details – such as the fact that she had been having an operation at the time. We don’t think there is any coming back from this for Cain.
Cain apologised for being “spinelessâ€and told his wife: “I knew straightaway it was the biggest mistake I’ve ever made.†And he’s made a lot of those…
In order to stop Moira from storming round to see Ruby, Cain ended up telling Moira all about Anthony’s death and the subsequent cover-up.
It didn’t fend her off though as she rocked up at Ruby’s house anyway, where she said a classic line: “Sorry, Ruby, I’m not your husband. Then again, neither is Cain.â€Â
Vanessa struggled over Suzy’s death (Credit: ITV)
Elsewhere in Emmerdale tonight
Vanessa got emotional as she started to grieve for Suzy, who was the first casualty of the limo crash.
“Been sat here trying to remember the last thing I said to Suzy. Why can’t I remember? I didn’t know that all the stuff we did was for the last time,” she told Tracy, before saying: “I don’t know what I’m gonna do without her.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
