**Why Did Ryan Hawley Leave Emmerdale? Inside Explosive Exit After Soap Legend Makes Casualty Debut**

Ryan Hawley surprised TV fans last week by returning to the small screen with a role on BBC1’s “Casualty.” Here’s everything you need to know about his departure from ITV’s “Emmerdale” and his latest ventures.

Ryan made his “Casualty” debut on Saturday, June 15th, 2024, as Jamie Cleveland, an old friend of nurse Cam. This appearance in the episode “Storm Damage” marked his return to soapland after leaving “Emmerdale.” But why did the actor leave “Emmerdale” in the first place?

Ryan Hawley first joined “Emmerdale” in 2014 as Robert Sugden, the adoptive son and brother of Sarah and Victoria Sugden. His character quickly became central to some of the show’s most dramatic storylines, including his ill-fated relationship with Chrissie White and his romance with Aaron Dingle. The couple, dubbed “Robron” by fans, had an unofficial wedding ceremony in 2017 and became instant favorites.

Despite their popularity, Ryan’s time on “Emmerdale” came to an end in June 2019. An ITV representative explained that the actor wanted to explore other projects and take a break from the show. They hinted at a possible return, noting that it’s common for long-running characters to take breaks and come back.

In 2019, Robert Sugden’s storyline took a dramatic turn. Following his sister Victoria’s sexual assault, Robert killed her attacker, Lee Posner. As a result, Robert was sentenced to 14 years in prison and transferred to a facility on the Isle of Wight. His marriage to Aaron was left in limbo, with many fans hoping for a reunion.

Earlier this year, fans were excited when Charity Dingle mentioned Robert during a conversation with Aaron, sparking hope for his return. However, Ryan Hawley has just begun his stint on “Casualty” and is involved in other projects, so a “Robron” reunion might not happen soon.

Since leaving “Emmerdale,” Ryan has added several TV credits to his name, including appearances on “Silent Witness” and “All Creatures Great and Small.” Offscreen, he has been busy with his personal life, being married to Daisy Prestes de Oliveira and having a son born in 2021.

In an interview on “Loose Women” in April 2024, Danny Miller, who plays Aaron, mentioned that a reunion with Ryan as Robert isn’t currently planned. Miller noted that Ryan has a young family and other commitments, but left the door open for a possible return in the future.

For now, fans can catch Ryan Hawley on “Casualty,” airing this Saturday at 8:35 p.m. on BBC1.