Emmerdale star confirms exit after major storyline: ‘Over and out’
An Emmerdale actor has officially said goodbye to the village, and shockingly, his final scenes have already been and gone.
Steven Gidwaney, who played Simo, has confirmed he’s leaving the ITV soap after returning for a short but memorable second stint. The character first appeared in the latter half of 2025 before making a comeback last month as the storyline reached its dramatic conclusion.
Simo was introduced as one of the vulnerable workers trapped in Ray and Celia’s illegal operation, part of a modern slavery storyline that struck a chord with viewers. Living hidden away in the attic alongside others, including local resident Bear Wolf, his character quickly became an important part of the narrative.
When he returned to screens recently, Simo was thrown straight into the centre of the courtroom drama involving Bear, Paddy and Dylan. At first, it looked like he would stand by them and support their version of events. But in a twist that caught viewers off guard, Simo changed his stance, suggesting that Bear’s so-called ‘special privileges’ meant he was aware of, and possibly involved in, the abuse carried out by Ray and Celia.
The unexpected turn added even more tension to an already gripping storyline, leaving fans divided over Simo’s actions and motivations. Was he protecting himself, or telling a version of the truth? Either way, his role proved crucial in shaping the outcome of the trial and pushing the story to its emotional finish.
Now that the storyline has wrapped, Steven has confirmed that his time on the show has come to an end, at least for now.
Taking to social media, he shared a heartfelt message reflecting on his experience and thanking those he worked with, including Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy.
He wrote:
‘Well what can I say…AGAIN!
To be asked to be part of this storyline and to play Simon ‘Simo’ Clarke in the first place was a huge honour. To be invited back has been a MASSIVE privilege!
Firstly, I’d like to thank my amazing agent @jordanaudere @auderetalent for getting me this incredible opportunity in the first place!
MASSIVE thank you to Faye Styring, Ezra Tren Humphries and the Emmerdale storyline team for bringing Simo back!
BIG thanks to Simon Ferguson and @matthiltondir, the 2 fantastic directors I had the pleasure of working with. I actually worked with Matt on my first TV job so it was a really nice moment to work with you again!
HUGE thanks to Joshua Richards, @fred_kettle, @dominicbrunt & Andrew Scarborough. I’m honestly so pleased I got to share scenes with you all, it was brilliant to work with all of you!
I also had the great pleasure of meeting @markcharnock, @missmichellehardwick, @bradjakejohnson, @misszoehenry, @charlottebellamy & @lisajaneriley – HUGE thank you to you all for being so welcoming, it genuinely meant the world!
Last but definitely not least SHOUTOUT to @adayinthelifeofjessiee, it was lovely to see you, thanks so much for the keyring, it’s mega!
That’s Simon ‘Simo’ Clarke over and out, for now, who knows, maybe we will see him again…’
His message was quickly met with support from fellow cast members. Michelle Hardwick commented: ‘So lovely to meet/work with you,’ while Fred Kettle, who plays Dylan, shared his approval with a string of clapping emojis.
Viewers also praised his performance, with many taking to the comments to applaud how convincingly he brought Simo to life, with some fans commenting ‘Great role Steven, well done’ and ‘Well done, great character,’ showing just how much of an impression he made in a relatively short time.
While his departure may feel like a loss for now, Steven’s closing words hint that the door isn’t completely shut. And in the world of soap, where characters often return when you least expect it, it’s always possible that Simo could find his way back to the Dales someday.
For now, though, it’s a clear sign-off; Simo is, as Steven put it, ‘over and out.’
