An exit story has been confirmed for a beloved Emmerdale character after 18 years. Samson Dingle plans to leave the village as he continues to assert his version of events regarding the stabbing of Matty Barton. Matty, who is innocent, remains in prison due to the fabricated story concocted by Samson and his friend Josh.

The two have been causing trouble at the Hide, with Josh making Amy uncomfortable with his inappropriate flirting and later directing transphobic remarks at Matty. During a confrontation, Josh demanded money and shoved Samson towards Matty, resulting in Samson being accidentally stabbed by a knife Matty was holding. Despite Matty’s innocence, Samson and Josh claim it was a deliberate attack.

The situation has created a rift, with Moira and Cain on one side, defending Matty, and Sam and Lydia on the other, supporting Samson. As tensions rise, Matty faces increased danger in prison when another inmate discovers he is transgender and threatens him.

Back in the village, Josh and Samson expedite their plans to travel around Europe, partly to escape the suspicion from Matty’s family. Moira is furious when she learns of their plans and confronts Sam, who insists on his son’s innocence. After Moira leaves, Sam reluctantly agrees to let Samson go abroad as long as he returns for the trial.

However, Lydia begins to doubt Samson’s story. She witnesses Josh threatening Samson to stick to their version of events. Lydia’s suspicions grow, but will she be able to convince Samson to tell the truth, or will he flee, leaving Matty in peril?

This storyline unfolds amid previous rumors of Sam Hall’s departure from the show, which the actor had previously denied. The upcoming episodes promise intense drama and significant consequences for all involved.