Emmerdale Star Jaye Griffiths Reveals Dark Secret Behind Celia Daniels’ Signature Scarf
Emmerdale actress Jaye Griffiths has lifted the lid on the chilling backstory behind one of her character’s most distinctive fashion choices — Celia Daniels’ ever-present scarf. The small wardrobe detail, which many viewers initially saw as a stylish quirk, actually hides a haunting piece of Celia’s past.
Celia’s Sinister Secret and Symbolic Style
Celia Daniels has fast become one of Emmerdale’s most compelling villains. Introduced earlier this year as a seemingly respectable local farmer, she was later revealed to be the ruthless mastermind behind a major drug ring — and the adoptive mother of dangerous dealer Ray Walters (Joe Absolom).
But beneath her icy control and sharp wit lies a past as scarred as the people she exploits. In a recent interview, Jaye Griffiths revealed that Celia’s trademark cravat hides a knife wound — the result of someone once trying to cut her throat.
“Celia wears a cravat because someone has tried to cut her head off,” Jaye explained. “It’s very subtle, and it’s only halfway across, because obviously they didn’t succeed in cutting her throat — and that’s why she wears it.”
Griffiths revealed that the detail was her own creative addition, something she discussed privately with the show’s executive team.
“I asked our execs if they would not tell scripts, because I don’t want it ever mentioned. There’s a lovely bit where Bob looks at my neck and then his eyes flick away, and that’s the only time. It’s just a hint of a former life — that bad things have happened to her.”
“She Walks Around with a Big Stick — It’s Glorious”
Jaye also shared her affection for Celia’s distinctive wardrobe — including her hat, cane, and, of course, her collection of scarves.
“I love my scarves,” she said. “I love my hat and my stick. She walks around with this big stick — could you be more literal? She just swans about, doing deals on her phone. It’s glorious.”
The actress praised Emmerdale’s costume department, saying she nearly “kissed the designer” when she saw Celia’s outfit for the first time.
“She doesn’t do farm work — she’s never been in a field in her life. She just looks the part, and I love that.”
Celia and Ray: A Toxic Bond
The actress also delved deeper into Celia’s disturbing dynamic with her adoptive son, Ray. Viewers recently learned that Celia groomed Ray from a young age, teaching him manipulation and control as tools for survival. But despite her ruthlessness, Jaye says Celia’s love for Ray is genuine — and dangerously possessive.
“She’s terrified of losing control of him,” Jaye explained. “When she sees him connect with someone like Laurel, it breaks her heart. That’s too real for her. If Ray left, she’d be truly alone in the universe — and I don’t think she’s ready for that.”
A Hint of Humanity Beneath the Monster
While Celia’s actions have been monstrous — exploiting April Windsor, manipulating Ray, and running a modern slavery operation — Griffiths insists that there’s a flicker of vulnerability beneath the surface.
“There was one moment we could show an inch of fragility,” she said. “She covers it quickly, of course. But otherwise, you just see her strolling about hurting people.”
What’s Next for Celia Daniels?
As Emmerdale continues its dark modern slavery and drug-trafficking storyline, Celia’s grip on Ray — and her empire — may soon begin to unravel. But with a past as violent as the scar she hides beneath her cravat, Celia is unlikely to go down quietly.