Emmerdale’s Eric Pollard delivers ‘sad’ news as ITV soap issues Brenda Walker update

Emmerdale’s Eric Pollard delivered “sad “news as the ITV soap issued a Brenda Walker update on Wednesday (June 11).

Earlier this year, the soap prepared viewers for Brenda’s exit, following the announcement that actress Lesley Dunlop would be departing after a 17-year stint.

In April, it was unveiled that Brenda had won a three-month world cruise in a magazine competition.

Initially, she decided against going, not wanting to leave her former partner, Eric (Chris Chittell), alone in the village. However, after much persuasion, she chose to embark on the once-in-a-lifetime journey with her former stepdaughter, Cathy Hope (Gabrielle Dowling).

The duo soon bid farewell to the Dales, with Brenda sharing a tearful farewell kiss with a visibly moved Eric, reports Belfast Live.

Brenda Walker left the village back in April (Image: ITV)

Since Brenda’s departure, Eric has been grappling with his deteriorating health, having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2023.

Last week saw Eric suffer a nasty fall at home, leading to his hospitalisation, with Kerry Wyatt (Laura Norton) stepping in to arrange a carer for him upon his return.

After an unsuccessful trial with a carer who didn’t meet Eric’s standards, the ITV veteran reluctantly agreed to let Kerry look after him, provided she accepted payment.

During tonight’s episode, Eric marked his 80th birthday alongside Kerry and his grandson, Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant).

While opening his presents and cards, Eric discovered a birthday card from Brenda bearing a sorrowful update.

Eric Pollard received a birthday card from Brenda on Wednesday (June 11)

“Well, it would have been [nice] if a Dear John letter hadn’t been attached as well. She’s not coming back,” Eric revealed.

“She’s rediscovered herself, new lease of life and unfortunately, I’m not included in it. And who can blame her after the way that I’ve treated her so badly. Thank you, Brenda, for letting me know on my birthday.”

He later confided his lost hopes of Brenda returning “refreshed” to the village after he gambled away her life savings last year.

Kerry offered words of comfort: “You cared about her a lot, it’s okay to be sad,” with Eric adding: “I just hope that she finds happiness, she deserves it.”

Kerry quickly replied: “So do you. Brenda might not be here anymore, but I am. I plan on sticking around for quite a long time.”

Eric has celebrated his 80th birthday this week

“I don’t know why it is, but I always find a way to get rid of the ones that I really care for. I’m afraid, I’m a little bit too old for any change,” Eric concluded.

At the shop, Kerry informed Jacob of Brenda’s letter, and they planned a surprise party to boost Eric’s spirits.

After watching the heartfelt scenes, several Emmerdale fans have taken to social media to share their sadness.

“Poor Eric, sad that Brenda told him she’s not coming back on his birthday,” one person wrote on a Facebook fan page.

Another added: “I would’ve loved Brenda to come back,” while a third said: “Loved those scenes with Eric and Kerry.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 at 7.30pm and is available to stream from 7am on ITVX