Bradley Johnson has broken his silence after his final scenes as Vinny Dingle aired on Emmerdale, thanking fans and co-stars for his seven years in the ITV soap.
Vinny was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Monday (October 12) for causing the car crash that killed Jimmy King (Nick Miles) and Dawn Fletcher (Olivia Bromley) in August. The judge said she needed to make an example of Vinny to deter others from using their phones while driving.
However, it was later revealed that the judge had been bribed, with evidence pointing to Joe Tate (Ned Porteous).
Bradley Johnson's emotional farewell
Shortly after his final scenes aired, Johnson took to Instagram to reflect on his time in the Dales. In a video, he said: "So, if you're watching this video, it means that Vinny's journey has sadly come to an end. And I just wanted to come on here and do this video just to say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so, so much."
He added: "If someone would have told me all them years ago that I would have been doing seven-and-a-half years in Emmerdale, I wouldn't have believed them, and I am so, so grateful for the opportunity. So, to all the cast members, the crew, directors, producers, anyone that I have met throughout my Emmerdale journey, I want to thank you because I have made friends for life in that place."
Tribute to on-screen mum Lisa Riley
The actor praised his on-screen mother Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, saying: "She was there on my very first day on set until the very last, and this journey wouldn't have been the same without you, Lisa. So, thank you. Thank you for all the help and guidance. To play Mandy Dingle's son, that's pretty special!"
He also spoke about his future: "I'm 30 next year, it's a big age! And it's a big age to, sort of, start a new chapter in my life. So, I'm excited, I'm scared, I'm apprehensive of what's to come. But I've got a feeling [that] next year's going to be a very good year."
Co-stars react
The comments section was flooded with supportive messages from his co-stars. Lisa Riley posted tearful emojis, adding: "Love you always, pretend Mum forever." Olivia Bromley wrote: "Love you mate," while Katie Hill commented: "Lots of love. Can't wait for this next exciting chapter for you."
Ash Palmisciano, who plays Matty Barton, shared: "Ahhh mate! You're so missed already! What a talented legend are you! Smashed it! It really won't be the same without you mate! Such an icon as Vinny and even more iconic as Brad! You're amazing mate!" Natalie Ann Jamieson, who played Amy Barton, was also left "crying" as she posted her own tribute on Instagram.
Emmerdale airs weekday nights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
