Missing Emmerdale star returns after two years for celebratory scenes

| Soaps Reporter Published August 14, 2026 2:33pm Updated August 14, 2026 3:09pm Emmerdale is set to welcome back a character last seen in 2024 (Picture: ITV/Metro) Emmerdale star Luca Hoyle has made his return to screens after a two year absence. The young actor, who plays Elliot Windsor, has been a key part of the ITV soap since 2016, but he hasn’t appeared on screen since December 11, 2024. Elliot is the son of Jimmy King (Nick Miles) and Kelly Windsor. Jimmy had no idea of Elliot’s existence until Kelly introduced them in 2012. In 2016, Elliot moved in with his dad permanently. The character’s return scenes aired on Friday (August 14) and saw mum Nicola delighted as she informed a number of local villagers in the cafe that her son had ‘smashed’ his A-Level results. Actor Luca confirmed his return earlier in the year via a statement on Instagram through his musical theatre school, Pendleton School of Theatre. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. ‘After a short break, I am so excited to say that this summer I am back in the studio filming for a new storyline as Elliot Windsor in Emmerdale,’ he said. ‘It’s a role I’ve been lucky enough to play since 2016, and it’s such a privilege to still be part of it. Looking forward to seeing where this next chapter goes.’ Luca Hoyle has played Elliot Windsor since 2016 (Picture: ITV) He went on to enthuse about the work he has been doing with the school during his time away from the Emmerdale set, expressing his gratitude to his peers and teachers. The comments section on the post was full of support for Luca, including a message from his dad, who said: ‘Proud dad …keep looking forward big lad.’ ‘Omg so exciting so proud of you,’ another supporter wrote, while an Emmerdale fan added: ‘Welcome Back Luca!!!’ Luca’s return to the role of Elliot comes just months after the unexpected announcement that soap stalwart Jimmy is set to be killed off. His ending is set to coincide with the explosive return of Sadie King (Patsy Kensit), who was last seen leaving the village in 2006, when she was double-crossed by Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) after the pair staged a kidnapping. The end is nigh for Jimmy (Picture: ITV/Mark Bruce/Shutterstock) A source previously told Metro: ‘The scenes promise to be spectacular but the outcome will leave many fans shocked. ‘It may prove controversial but the jaw-dropping storyline will set in motion some massive consequences for many months to follow.’ Sadie was Jimmy’s ex-wife, and we can only imagine that her return will shake things up for Jimmy and his wife, Nicola King (Nicola Wheeler). Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you Could Jimmy’s final storyline and Sadie’s return be what puts Elliot back on our screens? Arrow MORE: Jimmy’s future destroyed in cruel twist of fate – and Emmerdale tragedy is set to follow Arrow MORE: Emmerdale’s summer storyline spoilers for 2026 reveal death, stunt and iconic return Arrow MORE: All the Emmerdale cast returns, exits and new arrivals in 2026 The Soaps Newsletter – Weekly Sign up for exclusive spoilers and interviews, handpicked by our Soaps Editor.