Joe Absolom has reportedly filmed his final scenes on Emmerdale, leaving the ITV soap after just a few months. The 47-year-old actor, known for playing drug dealer Ray Walters, is set to bow out in explosive scenes airing in the new year.
Absolom, who previously starred as Matthew Rose on EastEnders and Al Large on Doc Martin, joined Emmerdale earlier this year. A source told The Sun: 'Bosses knew they only ever had Joe for a certain amount of time, but they’ve definitely made the most of having someone of his calibre in the village. He filmed his final scenes back in November.' The Mirror has contacted Emmerdale representatives for comment.
His character Ray, alongside foster mother Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths), has been at the centre of a dark storyline involving a drugs network and slavery ring. The duo have forced villagers like April Windsor and Bear Wolf into their schemes. It is thought Ray's exit will coincide with Emmerdale's upcoming crossover with Coronation Street.
Jaye Griffiths, who plays Celia, has also confirmed her departure, expressing sadness at leaving the role. She said: 'I knew it was finite, which I am very sad about, because I would like to stay forever, but it’s such a strong arc.' Griffiths hopes the storyline will highlight the reality of modern-day slavery, adding: 'Hopefully, maybe conversations will start to be heard.'
