Emmerdale star Jack Downham leaves ITV soap after 17 years

Jack Downham, who plays Noah Dingle (left) in Emmerdale, has left the show after 17 years <i>(Image: ITV/YouTube)</i>
Jack Downham, who plays Noah Dingle (left) in Emmerdale, has left the show after 17 years (Image: ITV/YouTube)
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An Emmerdale favourite has bowed out after 17 years on the ITV soap.

Jack Downham, who plays Noah Dingle, made his final appearance in an episode that aired last night (August 5).

Noah had shared his desire to apply for a job in Germany, and prepared to depart with the support of his family, including his mum Charity, who initially struggled with his decision to leave.

However, in a double blow, the Dingle family also said goodbye to their beloved dog Monty.

Emmerdale star Jack Downham leaves ITV soap after 17 years

In last night's emotional episode, the pet pooch was rushed to the vets but could not be saved.

Cain Dingle paid tribute to the family pet with a message that nodded to his late father, Zak Dingle.

He said: "You are a good boy, I know my dad was always grateful for having you.

"When you get up there, tell him how much you love him and that we miss him loads and that he takes you for plenty of walks, just like old times.

"We love you, scruffy old thing."

Noah then visited Cain to bid farewell as he headed off on his new adventure.

Posting about his exit on social media, Jack said: "Noah Dingle over and out.

"What a bloody beautiful place to have worked for 17 years!"

Jack's departure from Emmerdale was revealed last month, but reports say he is optimistic about the future.

"Jack is such a lovely lad, and everyone adores him," a source told The Sun.

"He’s been on the show since he was a young child so it’s all he’s ever known.

"He was told of the news last month and his axing has once again sent shockwaves through the cast and crew.

"Everyone is wondering who will be next."

Despite the unexpected exit, those close to Downham say he is optimistic about what lies ahead.

A friend said: "Jack is looking at the positives though and is hopeful about future opportunities."

ITV declined to comment when approached by Newsquest.

Emmerdale producer teases upcoming storylines on ITV soap

In other Emmerdale news, "dark" and "dramatic" storylines are on the horizon for fans in the months ahead.

Producer of the ITV soap Laura Shaw has teased what’s in store on the show through to 2027.

"Joe Tate and Dawn Fletcher – obviously, they've got a massive story coming up," she told Radio Times.

Laura added: "As for the Dingles, there's going to be lots going on there within that family.

"The Miligans are going to be getting involved.

"A few fingers in a few pies for those guys and are going to try and build their empire a little bit."

She also teased that fans could expect "quite dark gothic storylines" coming up at Home Farm, as well as some comedy from Kev and Lewis Barton (Chris Coghill and Bradley Riches).

"I mean, it's a whole mix," she said.

"That's what soap is about, isn't it?"

Who is your favourite character on Emmerdale? Let us know in the comments.

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