Emmerdale’s Chris Coghill Nearly Rejected Role of Kev After Learning His Fate

Emmerdale star Chris Coghill has revealed that he almost turned down the role of Kev after discovering that the character would be killed off — only to be persuaded when he learned how much fun the part would bring to the ITV soap.


Chris Coghill Almost Said No

In an interview with The Mirror, Chris shared that his initial reaction to the offer was hesitation. When producers told him that Kev’s storyline would eventually end in death, he questioned whether the role was right for him.

“When I was offered it and I was told he dies, I thought, I like Emmerdale and I’d like to be around for a bit,” he admitted. “I wanted to come and do something that had some potential longevity.”

However, the actor’s doubts vanished once show bosses explained who Kev really was — and what kind of chaotic, darkly funny energy he would bring to the Dales. “When I was told what the character was and that they weren’t meeting anybody else, I thought, actually this sounds like a right laugh,” Chris added.BBC One - The Driver, Episode 1 - Woodsy


Kev’s Secret Connection to Robert Sugden

Kev has made quite the entrance since debuting as the secret husband of Robert Sugden, who he met while serving time in prison. His arrival has reignited drama for Aaron Dingle and stirred up old wounds from Robert’s past.

Upcoming Emmerdale episodes are set to dive deeper into Robert’s time behind bars, revealing the complex bond he formed with Kev — one filled with loyalty, tension, and betrayal.

Despite fan theories suggesting Kev might be faking his impending death, Chris’s comments all but confirm that the character’s fate is sealed.


Fan Theories About Dylan

The actor’s reveal has also reignited speculation about Kev’s links to other characters, particularly newcomer Dylan. Viewers have long theorised that Dylan, who has been living rough since his introduction earlier this year, could secretly be connected to the Dingle family — or even to Kev himself.

One fan posted on X: “Is Dylan Kev’s son? It could make me care about Dylan and give Kev something to stay for after the Aaron and Robert affair comes out.”

However, others were quick to point out the timeline doesn’t quite fit. Kev has said he’s been in prison since 2002, which would make it impossible for him to have a teenage son unless there’s a more unusual explanation — such as sperm donation or a hidden past still to be revealed.Emmerdale's Kev actor Chris Coghill almost turned role down after exit news  - Mirror Online


What’s Next for Kev?

With standalone episodes planned that explore both Kev’s story and Dylan’s struggles, fans are bracing for emotional twists. Kev’s fate may already be sealed, but Emmerdale rarely lets a character go quietly.

Chris Coghill’s portrayal has already made Kev one of the show’s most unpredictable figures — and even as his story heads toward tragedy, viewers suspect there’s more to learn before the end.