Emmerdale fans have been left gobsmacked after a brand-new face to the Dales revealed he's already filmed his final scenes.
Now, viewers are reeling as they learn that his time in the village has ended almost as soon as it began after filming just five episodes.
Macaulay Cooper, who plays Mike, confirmed he's bowed out of the ITV soap only weeks after his dramatic debut.
Who is Emmerdale's Mike? Why is he leaving?
The actor's short but impactful stint sent shockwaves through the village, after Mike became entangled in a tense plot with the Dingles earlier this summer.
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At first, fans warmed to the newcomer. But before long, his true motives came to light, sparking one of the most controversial storylines of the year.
Viewers will remember how Mike struck up a friendship with Vinny Dingle (Bradley Johnson) online — before things took a very dark turn.
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As the plot unfolded, Mike blackmailed Vinny for £10,000 and threatened to expose his sexuality to fiancée Gabby.
Unsurprisingly, the storyline didn't go down well with fans, many of whom took to social media to vent their outrage.
The episode even prompted a flurry of complaints to Ofcom, with some viewers slamming the scenes as "insensitive" and "uncomfortable to watch."
And now, after all that uproar, the man behind the role has confirmed he's officially left the soap.
Macaulay confirms exit in Instagram post
Opening up about his short but memorable time on Emmerdale, Macaulay shared the news of his departure with fans on Instagram.
He wrote: "That's a wrap! After an unforgettable journey, all of my Emmerdale episodes have now aired.
"I feel incredibly grateful for this experience and this has been one of my favourite jobs to date. Huge thanks to everyone who tuned in and sent such kind messages – your support has meant the world to me!"
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Even so, the actor admitted that while his character was fictional, he understood that similar real-life experiences have caused deep pain for others — and said he hoped the storyline had helped raise awareness.
He described playing Mike as an "honour," despite acknowledging that the role had been emotionally challenging.
"Massive shoutout" to co-star Bradley Johnson
Macaulay didn't leave without thanking those who helped make his time on the show so special.
The actor went on to praise everyone involved in his Emmerdale journey. From his agent and the crew to his on-screen partner Bradley Johnson.
"And massive shoutout to @bradjakejohnson who was alongside me from my first to my last day on set and made the whole experience that much better," he wrote.
"You absolutely smashed this difficult storyline as 'Vinny,' and deserve every bit of praise and more for your incredible work. It's been a pleasure working with you."
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