Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley has spoken out about the rumoured departure of her co-star Bradley Johnson, who plays Vinny Dingle. Back in May, it was claimed that the 28-year-old actor had been dropped from the programme after portraying Vinny for more than seven years. Vinny, Mandy's adoptive son, will allegedly leave the ITV soap later this year.
Lisa Riley Responds to Exit Speculation
When questioned about her co-star's departure at the 2026 TRIC Awards, Lisa stayed tight-lipped about whether the speculation was accurate. The Emmerdale star told the Daily Express: 'That's not confirmed. I don't know where that's come from! I can't confirm nor deny. He's my dream.'
She added: 'We are like family. We're so close. You can see how much we laugh. We're a family at Emmerdale and we are really happy.'
Lisa Confirms Her Own Long-Term Future
While viewers might be bidding farewell to a beloved member of the Dingle clan, they shouldn't fret as Lisa, 49, assured she will remain in her role on the programme for a 'very long time'. She stated: 'But whatever happens... I could be going! I'm not, I'm signed for a very long time.'
Discussing what lies ahead for her character, Lisa hinted that Mandy will grow closer to Kev, portrayed by Chris Coghill. Kev was brought in during 2025 as Robert Sugden's (Ryan Hawley) estranged spouse, with the duo having wed while behind bars. He departed the village in early 2026 but has recently made his comeback after learning his biological son, Lewis Barton (Bradley Riches), had been abducted by a woman called Kylie.
Mandy and Kev's Potential Connection
Teasing what's in store for her character, Lisa disclosed that Mandy is initially suspicious of Kev, but suggested that the duo could forge an unexpected connection as the year progresses. The I'm A Celebrity star added: 'Mandy is not happy with Kev. She can spot a rogue a mile off can't she? Watch out Kev, the smother mother might be coming out. Then again, with Kev, over time, they could grow closer.'
Gushing over her co-star, Lisa added: 'I adore him. Chris Coghill is a genius to work with, phenomenally funny and on his lines so much that you can play with dialogue with him. Doing comedy is an actor's dream. I'm his biggest cheerleader.'
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8:30pm on ITV and ITVX.
