Jason Done, best known for his seven-year stint as Tom Clarkson in Waterloo Road, is set to join the cast of Emmerdale as a new villain. The actor will appear in upcoming episodes as Steve, a character who already has a pre-existing connection within the village, though the nature of that link remains a mystery.
From Waterloo Road to Emmerdale
Done's portrayal of Tom Clarkson made him a household name, with the character's shocking death in 2012 leaving fans devastated. In the storyline, Tom died after trying to save a suicidal student, falling to his own death. Reflecting on his departure at the time, Done told TV Times: 'People think I'm an absolute idiot for leaving Waterloo Road, but hopefully I'll prove them wrong. It wasn't an easy decision, but you have to take risks and spice things up a bit.'
Since then, Done has appeared in numerous other shows, including Coronation Street, Casualty, Lewis, Vera, and Brassic. His return to serial drama marks a major coup for Emmerdale, which has a track record of successfully integrating actors from other soaps.
A new villain with a surprising connection
According to a source speaking to The Sun: 'This is a huge coup for Emmerdale. They've had massive success with other soap stars joining the cast and the hope is that Jason will be another hit.' The source added that 'Jason's character is a new villain with a surprising connection to the village.'
Fans have already expressed excitement on social media. Instagram user @webkinney commented on Done's recent post: 'Just heard you are joining Emmerdale. Hope it's true!!! You and William Ash together in the village!' Another fan, @chloelward12, wrote: 'I liked you in Waterloo Road please return.'
Fan reactions and legacy
The announcement has reignited fond memories of Done's time on Waterloo Road. @lulubeau28xx exclaimed: 'I MISS TOM CLARKSON!!!!', while @tammyemerson426 said: 'Loved your character on Waterloo Road… gutted when you left it was never the same.' Some fans even called for a return to the school drama, with @skullcrusher_official suggesting: 'U were my favourite character in Waterloo Road I know u died in the show but they gotta bring u back like a different teacher or sum.'
Done's upcoming role in Emmerdale is expected to be a short stint, but the impact of his character is likely to be significant given the mysterious connection to the village. Further details about the storyline remain under wraps.
