An Emmerdale star is leaving the long-running ITV soap after a series of controversial storylines. Caroline Harker, 59, is stepping away from her role as the villainous Dr Caitlin Todd, a character she has portrayed for the past year.
Dr Todd's Controversial Storylines
The actress has enjoyed playing the character, who has been at the centre of intense bullying scenes. Dr Todd has been seen tormenting Jacob Gallagher at work and blackmailing Charity Dingle. However, the plotlines have pushed boundaries, leading to a sexual assault storyline that will see her assault Charity. These harrowing scenes are set to be among her last in the Dales.
A source told The Sun: "Caroline has loved her time at Emmerdale but it's time to move on. She always knew playing such an evil character came with a shelf life but she's leaving with many fond memories." The source added: "Caroline only came in on a short-term contract, and knew she would never stay long-term."
Other Cast Departures
Her exit date and storyline are not yet confirmed, but she is not the only star leaving. Olivia Bromley, Nick Miles, and Bradley Johnson will also depart later this year. Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw recently hinted at upsetting scenes for Vinny Dingle, played by Bradley, whose seven-year stint will end dramatically. It is claimed Vinny's traumatic past, including abuse from his father Paul, will resurface with the arrival of Lewis Barton's father, Kev Townsend.
Shaw told Inside Soap: "What we need to remember is the relationship that Vinny had with his own father, Paul, who was quite abusive. It brings a lot back for Vinny because Kev is slightly wild, edgy and can be unpredictable. Vinny's quite nervous about Lewis having a relationship with Kev, because he reminds him of Paul."
Another report suggested Nick's character Jimmy would be killed off in devastating scenes, leaving fans outraged. The cuts are reportedly due to fewer episodes. Bradley's co-stars were shocked by the news of his axing, as he is a popular cast member.
