Emmerdale star shares goodbye message as popular character makes temporary exit from ITV soap

Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has shared a heartfelt goodbye message with fans as he exits the ITV soap temporarily.

The actor, who plays fan-favourite character Lewis Barton, is stepping away from the soap to accommodate his stint in a Christmas pantomime.

Writing on social media, the actor revealed he'd filmed his final scenes, telling fans: "Who's gonna miss Lewis for a bit? That's a wrap on filming at Emmerdale for a bit, before some time off and then straight into Pantoland!"

He continued: "I'm so excited to see what's ahead for Lewis in 2027 and to see where his story takes him next. I feel incredibly lucky to do a job I love, surrounded by such brilliant people."

He added: "Feeling very grateful, as always. For now, a little break before being back on your screens soon."

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Riches, who is perhaps best known for his role in Heartstopper, where he plays James McEwan, announced back in March that he’d be departing from the soap to play the titular role during performances of The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at the Sunderland Empire from December.

The announcement coincided with the news that ITV bosses had lifted rules that previously prevented Emmerdale and Coronation Street stars from pursuing other temporary projects away from the broadcaster.

Speaking of his new project, Riches said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to panto and especially to be playing Peter Pan again. It’s such an iconic and magical role."

He continued: "There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live audience at Christmas, and I can’t wait to be at the Sunderland Empire. It's going to be a brilliant festive season – I’m so excited to get flying!"

Read more:

• ITV cites net zero climate action strategy in planning application to retain Emmerdale village set permanently
• Emmerdale and Coronation Street's sustainability expert reveals why soap operas have always been TV’s greenest genre
• 5 Emmerdale spoilers next week: Belle Dingle confronts evil Tom King and Robert Sugden’s shock hire
• Emmerdale airs surprise and unannounced return of legendary character eight months after exit in early ITVX release

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1. Stream on ITVX.

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Authors

Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.