Emmerdale spoilers follow.
Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has shared a farewell message with fans as he takes a short break from the show.
The actor, who plays Lewis Barton, is stepping away from the soap until next year to work on a new project.
ITV
Related: 5 Emmerdale spoilers for tonight as Tom’s tense return scenes air
Back in March, it was announced that ITV bosses had finally lifted strict rules that limited Emmerdale and Coronation Street stars’ availability to take on other work.
The news coincided with Bradley announcing that he’d play Peter Pan in a Christmas panto.
Writing on social media after filming his final scenes for the year, Bradley asked: “Who’s gonna miss Lewis for a bit? That’s a wrap on filming at Emmerdale for a bit, before some time off and then straight into Pantoland!
“I’m so excited to see what’s ahead for Lewis in 2027 and to see where his story takes him next. I feel incredibly lucky to do a job I love, surrounded by such brilliant people.”
He added: “Feeling very grateful, as always. For now, a little break before being back on your screens soon.”
ITV
Related: 12 huge Emmerdale spoilers for next week (9 to 13 November)
Fans won’t see Lewis disappear just yet, however, as the show films episodes a couple of months before they air. The popular character has already been included in next week’s spoilers, which mention Lewis’s father Kev confiding in him about his feelings for Nicola King.
Bradley, who previously appeared in Heartstopper, is starring in Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at the Sunderland Empire.
Meanwhile, Lawrence Robb (who plays Mackenzie Boyd) also recently took a break from Emmerdale to take part in Strictly Come Dancing, but was voted off last weekend.
ITV
It’s understood that ITV bosses are willing to let soap stars take on other projects, provided they give adequate notice, and the work doesn’t affect storyline plans.
Speaking to us about the change – and whether he’d do Strictly himself – Bradley recently said: “I feel like for me, I love a little dance, I like a little boogie. It’s inevitable – maybe when I’m 60, who knows?
“I’m very excited about all these opportunities that we’re allowed to do now. Fingers crossed one day.”
Earlier this year, Bradley Riches called his co-star Olivia Bromley “a friend for life” following her departure from Emmerdale.
See next week’s Emmerdale spoilers:
– Emmerdale’s Kev Barton announces shock quit decision – crushing Nicola
– Emmerdale reveals Dingle fury as huge Samson outcome is revealed
– Emmerdale’s Kim Tate to make public announcement at The Woolpack
– Emmerdale’s Caleb to take action after new Joe Tate threat
– Emmerdale’s Dingles face Samson and Tom crisis in 16 spoiler pictures
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
Read more Emmerdale spoilers on our dedicated homepage
Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.
The new edition of Legends, a 100-page celebration of the world of K-pop, is here. Buy K-Pop in newsagents or online.