Emmerdale Exit Confirmed: Simo Actor Says Goodbye as Bear’s Fate Hangs in the Balance

Steven Gidwaney bows out—but teases more pain ahead for Bear, Celia, and Ray

Simo’s Escape Fails — And So Does His Freedom

After months of brutality, secrets, and twisted manipulation, Emmerdale viewers finally saw Simo attempt to escape Celia Daniels’ sinister farm. But now, actor Steven Gidwaney has officially confirmed his exit from the soap, bringing a bitter twist to the modern slavery storyline.Emmerdale star films final scenes on soap in show's darkest EVER plot

Last week’s episode saw Simo and Mick launch a desperate plan to flee the farm, aided by none other than Bear Wolf—but things didn’t go to plan. Just as hope seemed within reach, Bear, still psychologically shackled by Ray and Celia’s mind games, betrayed the plan and reported the escape attempt.

The result? Simo was forcibly relocated to another location, and for many fans, his fate was sealed.It's Simo's last episode tonight! Will Simo, Mick and Bear escape Ray? BIG thank you to everyone for your love and support ❤️ #Emmerdale

Steven Gidwaney Confirms Departure

On Instagram, Gidwaney shared an emotional farewell, thanking his agent, the Emmerdale cast and crew, and especially the directors and producers who trusted him with the role.

“What a pleasure it’s been to be involved in such a HUGE storyline… I’ve loved every second of being Simo!”

While his message confirmed his departure, it also teased that Bear’s story is far from over, urging fans to keep watching as the fallout unfolds.Simo returns tonight! Will he get through to Bear? #Emmerdale

What It Means for Bear

With Simo gone, Bear Wolf now stands completely alone, emotionally torn and trapped under Celia’s control. Though he tried to help his fellow captives, Bear’s brainwashing and trauma-induced loyalty to his abusers continues to cloud his judgment.

Dylan Penders may be Bear’s last hope. Having recently discovered Bear’s true identity and seen firsthand the horrors on Celia’s farm, Dylan now holds the power to expose the operation—but doing so could put him in grave danger.

Celia and Ray’s Operation Tightens

As the walls begin to close in, Celia and Ray are growing increasingly paranoid. Now that Bear’s real name has resurfaced and Dylan is acting differently, the risk of exposure is higher than ever. If they suspect betrayal, their next move could be deadly.

Without Simo, there are fewer witnesses—and fewer allies.

A Storyline Far From Over

Steven Gidwaney may have said goodbye, but the modern slavery arc is still reaching its peak. With Bear’s fate uncertain, and Dylan walking a razor’s edge, Emmerdale is setting up for a tense, emotional climax that could redefine several major characters.