Former Emmerdale star Dean Andrews has spoken out about leaving the ITV soap as Will Taylor at Christmas.
The character suffered severe chest pains and collapsed to the floor, just moments after returnee Joe Tate (Ned Porteous) informed Kim Tate (Claire King) about Will’s scheme to take her down.
Mirroring scenes from 1997, when she watched her then-husband Frank Tate (Norman Bowler) die, Kim smirked as Will dragged the Christmas tree down, believing he was suffering a panic attack – but the incident was far more serious.
Fighting back tears as she performed CPR, she desperately tried to save her husband’s life, but he was later declared dead.
Subsequently, Will’s daughter Dawn (Olivia Bromley) and her husband Billy (Jay Kontzle) have accused Joe of murder, and in upcoming scenes, turn their attentions to Kim instead.
Amid speculation that the character could still be alive, Dean took to Instagram to shut down rumours and clarify his exit.
‘Just a quick message from me to thank you all and to quash any rumours regarding my character’ he wrote.
‘Have a wonderful 2025 and hopefully see you on the other side.’
Whilst praising those on and off screen at the show’s production base near Leeds, he went on to say that it was time to ‘move on’ and was looking ahead to new projects this year.
Whilst noting that he’d be keen to do a film, advert or voiceover work, he also addressed why the soap didn’t record a farewell message for their own socials.
Usually, when an actor leaves, they record a quick goodbye and thank you for fans.
‘I wasn’t asked’ he said.
Co-star Natalie-Ann Jamieson, who plays Amy Barton, commented: ‘Can’t wait to hear you selling me things on’t radio!
‘So lovely to have worked with you on Emmers!! Let’s aim to do some crap acting in the sun next time, those Yorkshire dales sure are pretty but they sure are nippy!’
Jay Kontzle added: ‘Absolute honour to work with you mate and thank you for your patience and support over the years.
‘You’re a wonderful actor and an exceptional person! I wish you the very best for 2025 and beyond and do hope we catch up in the near future.’
An Emmerdale Village Tour guide penned: ‘It was great to “chaperone” as part of the Emmerdale Village Tours, you are a true gentleman and you will be missed by visitors on Tour next year.
‘Good luck for the future and look forward to hearing about your next project.’
As Will’s funeral approaches, Dawn lashes out in the church and pushes Kim into her father’s coffin.
With the drama dying down, the locals head to the cemetery and are shocked when the police arrive.
Has Dawn dobbed Kim in, or is she still targeting Joe?
