Emmerdale has cast actor Jason Done, 53, as a new villain in what insiders describe as a "major coup" for the ITV soap. Done, best known for his long-running role as teacher Tom Clarkson in Waterloo Road, has also appeared in Coronation Street, The Bill, Brassic, and Death in Paradise.
Jason Done's Character and Connection
ITV confirmed to the Mirror that Done will play a character named Steve. A source told The Sun: "This is a huge coup for Emmerdale. They’ve had massive success with other soap’s stars joining the cast and the hope is that Jason will be another hit." The source added that Steve is "a new villain with a surprising connection to the village."
Other Cast Developments
Actor Bradley Riches, who plays a role in Emmerdale, revealed he had to fake shock when producers announced co-star Chris Coghill's return as Kev Townsend. Riches admitted to the Mirror that Coghill secretly messaged him in February about a potential comeback, adding: "Before I went to get married, I had a meeting with the producers, and they were like, 'so Chris is coming back', and I went, 'no way!' Like, it's a surprise, but I knew he was coming back anyway."
Meanwhile, rumours persist that fan favourite Vinny Dingle may be leaving the soap. Lisa Riley, who plays Vinny's adopted mum Mandy Dingle, addressed the speculation at the 2026 TRIC Awards, telling 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. We are like family."
