Luca Hoyle has announced his return to Emmerdale following a two-year hiatus from the ITV soap.
The 19-year-old actor, who has played Elliot Windsor since 2016, shared the news through Pendleton Theatre School’s Instagram account on Friday.
“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,” Mr Hoyle wrote.
“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.”
The actor is set to reprise his role as Elliot Windsor
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ITV
The young performer last appeared on screen in 2024 and is expected to feature in episodes broadcasting later this summer.
Elliot Windsor’s backstory involves a complicated family history that has unfolded over more than a decade on the Yorkshire-based drama.
Kelly Windsor brought her son to the village in 2011 when she returned, introducing him to her former fiancé Jimmy King and claiming he was the boy’s father.
Jimmy had previously believed Kelly had terminated the pregnancy after leaving the Dales, making Elliot’s existence a complete surprise.
The young performer last appeared on screen in 2024
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ITV
The former couple eventually sat down with their son to discuss the paternity situation, shortly before Kelly took Elliot back to America with her.
However, the youngster subsequently returned to live with Jimmy and his family in the village, where he has remained despite his prolonged absence from viewers’ screens.
Hoyle is currently studying musical theatre at Pendleton Theatre School, where he has just completed his first year on the course.
During his time away from the soap, the actor has been involved in stage productions including Footloose and The Great British Bake Off Musical.
“I have absolutely loved my first year on the Musical Theatre course at Pendleton.
“I have been lucky enough to be part of both Footloose and The Great British Bake Off Musical, which I have enjoyed every minute of,” he said.
Mr Hoyle also praised his fellow students and tutors, describing them as “incredibly kind and supportive.”
The actor is due to commence his final year of studies in September, meaning he will need to balance his academic commitments with his filming schedule for the soap.
Supporters of the soap swiftly responded to the Instagram post with enthusiasm
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ITV
Supporters of the soap swiftly responded to the Instagram post with enthusiasm, with comments including “Welcome back, Luca!” and “Well done mate!”
The announcement arrives amid speculation that Mr Hoyle’s on-screen father Jimmy King may be departing the programme.
Reports have suggested the long-running character, portrayed by Nick Miles since 2004, could be killed off in a dramatic storyline.
A source told The Sun: “Everyone is shocked and it shows that no one is safe from the budget cuts.
“Bosses are under pressure to cut costs, and sadly, that means popular cast members being told their time is up.”
ITV has not officially confirmed any details regarding Jimmy’s future on the programme.