Emmerdale has confirmed its first major exit of 2026, and fans are devastated. Actor Chris Coghill has officially revealed that he has left the ITV soap after his final scenes as Kev Townsend, sparking heartbreak and emotional tributes across social media.

🚪 A shocking departure fans didn’t want

Kev’s exit marks the end of one of the village’s most unpredictable and compelling newer characters. After a turbulent storyline filled with violence, regret, fatherhood struggles and unexpected redemption, he walked away — leaving both his son and viewers in tears.

Chris Coghill shared a video from his final scene, writing a simple farewell message expressing his love for the show and its supporters. Fans quickly flooded him with messages begging for Kev’s return.

⚔️ From violent beginnings to emotional final choices

Kev originally arrived in Emmerdale surrounded by chaos. His first stint ended dramatically after he used a sword in a confrontation with Robert Sugden and Aaron Dingle. Realising Robert had moved on and the couple were inseparable, Kev disappeared from the village.

But the story didn’t end there.

He returned over the festive season alongside evil Jon Sugden, in a dark alliance that shocked viewers. Jon ordered Kev to kill Robert and then take his own life — a chilling plan that pushed Kev toward breaking point.

In a crucial turning moment, Kev refused to carry out the murder and instead chose to warn Aaron, proving he was no longer the same man who arrived in Emmerdale.

👨‍👦 A father torn between guilt and love

Another emotional storyline centred on Kev and his son Lewis Barton. Despite warnings to stay away, Kev reached out — only to receive a painful ultimatum from Nicola King:

• be a real father

• or leave for good

Overwhelmed by guilt and heartbreak, Kev walked away, believing his son might be better off without him.

His final decision left viewers stunned — and many in tears.

📱 “You brought the show back to life”

Fan reaction was immediate and powerful:

• “You were the best character in years.”

• “Kev made Emmerdale funny, dangerous and exciting again.”

• “This cannot be the end.”

Co-stars also sent love, including Danny Miller (Aaron Dingle) who joked that he is ready to “start a petition” to bring Kev back. Actor Bradley Riches, who plays Lewis, added an emotional “Miss you, Dad x.”

🔮 Is Kev gone for good?

Emmerdale bosses have not confirmed whether Kev’s exit is permanent. The door remains open — and viewers know that in soapland, goodbyes are rarely final.

Kev leaves behind:

• unresolved family bonds

• a son who still needs him

• enemies and allies in the village

• fans who are not ready to say goodbye