Jason Merrells has quit ‘Emmerdale’.
The 45-year-old actor – who plays the ruthless Declan Macey – is set to leave the ITV soap to spend more time with his family after admitting he finds being 200 miles away from his home very difficult.
He told the Daily Star newspaper: "It was never going to be a job for life and I’ve stayed way longer than I thought I would. I’ve really enjoyed it but problems are still there – travel and living away from home.
"This job is full-on, so every week I’m 200 miles away from my family and my home, and after a while you think: ‘As much as I love the work, I don’t want this forever’."
It has yet to be confirmed whether Declan, played by Jason, will leave the Yorkshire village dead or alive.
The soap’s viewers last saw him floating down the river, following a showdown with his wife Charity (Emma Atkins) and nephew, Robbie Lawson. During the altercation, Robbie, played by Jamie Shelton, died after a flare gun was fired into his chest, causing him to fall into the river.
Despite missing home, the dad-of-five admitted he had a great time on the show and praised his co-star, Emma.
Jason said: "Being in ‘Emmerdale’ is not something I could have done forever: I’ve stayed longer as it’s been great fun to play this character.
"Emma Atkins is great to work with and the show has been so good over the last two years.
"Apart from the travel I’ve loved every second but there’s always been an end in my mind."
Jason Merrells quits Emmerdale
