An Emmerdale fan-favourite has confirmed his departure to heartbroken fans.

Chris Coghill confirmed his exit from Emmerdale (Image: ITV)

Emmerdale star Chris Coghill has confirmed his exit from the beloved ITV soap after his final appearance as Kev Townsend aired. Fans will recall that his initial exit in November, which occurred shortly after his arrival, involved him using a sword against husband Robert Sugden (played by Ryan Hawley) and Aaron Dingle. However, he soon realised that Robert had wholeheartedly moved on and that the new couple had become inseparable. After some time away, he made a twisted return during the festive season with Aaron’s evil ex John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth).

In their frosty alliance, John was desperate to reunite with Aaron and ordered Kev to murder Robert, then take his own life, but he didn’t go through with the plan and instead warned Aaron. Kev had also decided to see his son Lewis Barton (Bradley Riches) despite being warned off by Nicola King (Nicola Wheeler). She gave him a final ultimatum and told Kev that he should step up and be a proper father or leave for good. Consumed by sadness, he seemingly chose the latter and walked away from his son.

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Taking to Instagram, Coghill posted a clip of his final scene and penned: “Right, in a bit, Emmerdale. Been an absolute joy, thanks for all the love for Kev.”

The actor was inundated with support from viewers, who were left shocked by his departure as one penned: “Nooooooo, I absolutely love Kev, and I need him to know his son.”

A second added: “One of the best characters they have had in years… If they had you and Ross doing scenes, it would be hilarious!”

“You made Emmerdale funny, exciting, dangerous, and us desperate for more! For the first time in such a long time!! I hope it’s not the end of Kev and we get you back in a father’s role, one day soon! You’re gonna be so missed,” commented a third.

Kev decided to walk out on Lewis (Image: ITV)

One devastated fan said: “You’ve brought the show back to life, Chris. For that, I salute you!”

As another echoed: “Nooooo, it cannot end there! Emmerdale, sort yourself out! Kev has undoubtedly been the most hilarious and loveable character for years!!! I want his relationship to blossom with Lewis!!!”

Meanwhile, Coghill’s co-star, Danny Miller, who stars as Aaron, chimed in and stated: “I’m gonna start a petition.”

As Kev’s on-screen son, added: “MISS YOU DAD XX.”

With his departure marking the first Emmerdale exit of 2026, it’s yet to be seen if the ex-convict will make his way back to the Dales.