ITV Emmerdale star flooded with support after character killed in heartbreaking exit

Emmerdale actor Emile John, who played Ethan Anderson, has spoken out following the shocking death of his character. In Tuesday's episode, viewers were left stunned as Ethan collapsed and died while preparing for court with his father Charles (Kevin Mathurin), following a car crash that left Nicky Milligan (Lewis Cope) in a coma.

After his departure from the soap, Emile appeared in a farewell video on Emmerdale's social media channels. Having spent three years in the village, Emile said: "Good evening, guys. If you're watching this, then that unfortunately means that Ethan Anderson has passed away and therefore means he will no longer be in the village."

He went on to express his gratitude to the cast and crew, saying: "I just want to say a huge thank you to all the cast and all the crew that I have worked with over these three years. It's absolutely flown by. A lot of the cast have sort of just taken me under their wing."

Emile concluded by thanking the viewers, saying: "It's been such a ride, such a journey, and one that I've really learned so much on. I want to thank you the viewers that have stayed tuned and sort of kept up with Ethan's journey. Thank you so much."

The soap star was also inundated with support from his co-stars after he shared an emotional post on Instagram. Along with some behind-the-scenes snaps, Emile penned: "After three years, Ethan’s journey on Emmerdale has come to an end!

"I feel extremely privileged to have entered this industry working on such an Iconic show. I honestly had the time of my life! Sharing the space with such talented folk on and off screen for the last few years has been a huge honour and an experience that’ll stay with me always

"Huge thank you to those of you who have been invested in any of my storylines throughout my time on the show, seeing your reactions and opening important conversations have made it all the more worth it!"

He concluded the post: "With Love, Ethan Out."

Taking to the comments section, Rebecca Sarker, who plays Manpreet Sharma wrote: "E! Miss you already. Thank you for the laughs and the "haa hoos" Go forth and be brilliant xx." (sic)

"It has been bittersweet as our best work together was your curtain call. You killed it, bro. I'm so proud of you. All the best for your future," Kevin Mathurin added.

"Good luck lovely," Michelle Hardwick simply commented.

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7.30pm on ITV.