Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb, who plays Mackenzie Boyd on the ITV soap, has announced he will run the London Marathon in April to raise funds for the Samaritans charity. The 32-year-old shared the news on Instagram, describing the decision as “crazy” and urging fans to donate to support volunteer training for those struggling to cope.
Robb posted training clips and a video with his dog, saying: “I’m running because it’s a wonderful cause. I’m trying to raise as much money as possible to make people realise that they’re not alone.” His fundraiser link is on his profile, and he thanked followers for any contributions.
The announcement has prompted concern among fans about his future on the show. One viewer wrote: “Good luck!! Don’t you dare [go] leaving us [on] Emmerdale! Please!!! I am your fave fan!” Another echoed: “Pleeeeaaaasssee don’t leave Emmerdale.”
Robb previously revealed he once feared he was being written out after producers hinted his character would be stabbed by Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins). He told the Daily Star: “They pitched it as though I was going to leave the show. They told me that Charity stabs Mackenzie and I was like I need to start looking for another job then!”
Despite the scare, Mackenzie survived, and Robb enjoyed filming the dramatic hospital scenes. He said: “I was actually excited about having that because I’ve been on the show for a little while now and I’ve not got the chance to do this. Needless to say the novelty of lying in a hospital bed wore off pretty quickly.”
