Emmerdale star ‘exit confirmed’ as character plans to leave village after 14 years
Emmerdale's Jacob Gallagher could be set to leave the village after more than a decade with the soap as he's offered a huge opportunity to study in Berlin - but will he take it?
Emmerdale’s Jacob Gallagher’s exit could be sealed in the coming weeks.
The alter-ego of Jacob is played by actor Joe Warren Plant, who has belonged to the Dales for 14 years. But it appears that might be all about to change.
On Tuesday (April 16), the episode saw young Jacob discussing an exciting study opportunity in Berlin with Dr Liam Cavanagh. However, fear of leaving his girlfriend Victoria Sugden, with whom he’s had a tumultuous relationship, put him in two minds about venturing overseas.
Tensions rose even higher as Victoria became aware of Jacob’s hidden academic proposition and pushed him to pursue his dreams, potentially sealing his departure from the show. This twist left audience members questioning whether this was the official end for Jacob in the famous village, along with his blossoming relationship with Victoria.
The possible exit for Jacob comes shortly after his on-screen dad David Metcalfe – played by Matthew Wolfenden – said his goodbyes to the ITV soap for good. On the programme, David has always been unable to accept the romantic bond between his son Jacob and his ex-lover Victoria.
This left David with no choice but to pack up his bags and exit all while reuniting with former flame Priya Sharma and their daughter Amba. Reflecting on his departure, Wolfenden admitted: “I’m so nervous about leaving, almost two decades.”
He added: “It feels like the right time. The door’s left open, they’re not killing me off, I’ve been promised. I’m allowed to tell you that.”
“So who knows, I might be back, we will see,” he told the Mirror. “I met my wife on the show, we’ve had three kids.
“Not only has it given me 18 years of an amazing job, it’s given me family. So to leave it, it’s been a big, big part of my life. There is a resolution of sorts, I can’t give too much away. Victoria is the reason why he leaves the village. Put it that way,” said the actor.
Joe-Warren was left gutted over his friend and co-star’s departure, but vowed they’d keep in touch. He said: “I’m gutted! I’ve learnt everything from him. I had no previous acting experience, so everything came directly from Matthew.
“It’s sad, but we’ll keep in touch, he’s my best friend! Matthew’s the most genuine soul you could ever meet. I’ll miss him, for sure, it’s going to be strange…
“I think he’ll have to spend more time with Leyla and get used to not having a father figure in his vicinity. Jacob loves David to pieces and there’s a good energy between them. Jacob will struggle without him,” explained Joe.
Emmerdale airs on weekdays from 7.30pm on ITV1 or catch up on ITVX.