Bosses scramble to bring back soap’s most surprising breakout character as fan affection grows

A Sudden Exit That No One Expected

Just months after exploding onto the Emmerdale scene as Robert Sugden’s secret prison husband, Kev Townsend may already be on his way out. Actor Chris Coghill has reportedly filmed his final scenes for 2025 — but insiders say it may not be the end.

Viewers first met Kev during one of the show’s most controversial twists of the year: Robert, long presumed single and still pining for Aaron, had in fact married behind bars. And that husband? Kev — a former armed robber with a hardened past and a surprisingly soft heart.

From Intruder to Icon

At first, Kev’s arrival stirred outrage. He was seen as the final wedge between Robron — the power couple fans had waited years to reunite. But something changed. Over the weeks, Kev’s quiet strength, emotional vulnerability, and layered backstory began to win people over.

His chemistry with Robert was undeniable. His scenes with Aaron were tense yet heartbreaking. And above all, Kev never pretended to be anything other than what he was — a flawed man trying to survive.

Now, it seems, fans don’t want him gone at all.

Viewers React—and Demand More

The shift in viewer sentiment has been loud and clear. One fan wrote:
“Unpopular opinion: the Kev story is one of the best this year. It feels real. Complex. Not thrown together.”

Another simply called him:
“The greatest new soap character in a very long time.”

Even those who were skeptical are now warming to him. Kev has become a figure that breaks the mould: a “lovely baddie” with more emotional depth than many long-standing characters.

Could Kev Return in 2026?

While Coghill’s contract reportedly ended with scenes shot through late 2025, producers are re-evaluating everything. A source told The Sun:
“Bosses knew Chris would be popular… but this reaction? It’s been a surprise. They’re already looking at ways to bring him back.”

That could mean a short break followed by a dramatic return — or even an unexpected redemption arc later next year. For now, nothing is confirmed.