Emmerdale favourite sparks exit fears after 22 years and fans are seriously worried

A much-loved Emmerdale star has sparked concern amongst devoted fans who fear the actor has quit the long-running soap after more than 20 years. PC Mike Swirling (Andy Moore) has featured on the ITV drama since 2004, making him one of the longest-serving recurring cast members. Throughout the years, he has regularly been seen tackling the village's countless misdemeanours.

Consequently, PC Swirling has become a familiar face in the village and amongst many residents, particularly the Dingle clan, including soap legend Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley). In recent months, however, the much-loved officer has been conspicuously absent from screens, leaving dedicated soap enthusiasts genuinely anxious. On an Emmerdale Facebook fan page, alongside a photo of PC Swirling, one viewer wrote: "Where has he gone not seen him in ages?", reports the Daily Star.

Another commented: "What happened to him I miss him; hopefully he comes back to Emmerdale." A third added: "Yes where has he gone? Need him living in the village now."

Sharing the same sentiment, a further fan posted: "Me too come on writers, we want him back! !" while a fifth remarked: "Yes bring him back we miss him," accompanied by a sad crying face emoji.

Beyond his role in the Dales, actor Andy Moore, who plays PC Swirling, has built an impressive television career. His first foray into soap operas came in 2005 with a brief appearance as a driver in two episodes of Coronation Street.

By 2010, Moore had returned to the same series, this time taking on the role of a photographer. Yet, Coronation Street isn't the sole programme where audiences have witnessed Moore's talent; he has appeared in other well-known series, including The Bill, The Royal, and Fred and Marv.

In 2022, Andy turned to his Facebook page to announce his most recent achievement to his followers. He shared a YouTube video by indie band Courting, enthusiastically showcasing his involvement. Accompanying the video link, he wrote: "Andy Moore starring in a music video for indie band Courting," which garnered five reactions on his page.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Andy both created and featured in a short 10-minute sketch. The Last Lockdown Sketch was published on YouTube with a description that reads: "When your online consultation with your doctor goes one massive step further. The doctor instructs his patient through a step by step major operation procedure over Zoom."

He added in the caption: "Hasn't the last couple of years been strange and frustrating. As a mark of coming out of it this film ridicules the weird time we have just come out of with elaborate exaggeration and a rather dark twist."

Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX