Emmerdale fans say 'where is he?' as icon's absence sparks exit fears

Soap viewers are calling for one character's return following time off screen as his wife now faces danger from villain Celia

Emmerdale fans are growing increasingly worried for Cain Dingle, who continues to be absent from the popular ITV soap.

Earlier this year, Cain, portrayed by Jeff Hordley, left the village on a mission to find John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), after learning he was responsible for the death of his son, Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter).

Cain's sudden departure left his wife, Moira Dingle (Natalie J. Robb), completely in the dark, as she had no idea where he was until he got in touch weeks later from a prison in Dover, Kent.

When Cain finally returned home, he seemed under immense stress, having failed to find John despite receiving help from Caleb Miligan (William Ash) to escape, in return for keeping quiet about Anthony Fox's death.

He admitted to being drunk and causing a disturbance on the ferry from France to England, leading to his arrest at the port, reports the Daily Star.

On 22 October, Cain assisted Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson) in encouraging the local lads to get their prostate checked following Liam's cancer scare. This was the last time viewers saw Cain on screen.

During his absence, it has come to light that Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths) and her son, Ray (Joe Absolom), are exploiting slaves for all their farming work. Celia is collaborating with Moira on turkey farming, but Moira remains unaware of Celia's wicked ways.

On Monday (24 November), Celia deceived Moira by claiming to drop off some unwanted items at a charity shop in town, but instead used a blanket with Moira's DNA to wrap around Anya's dead body before her unlawful burial at Butlers.

On Tuesday's episode, Celia inspected the makeshift grave, and upon encountering Moira, she suggested a casual stroll where they chatted about business matters.

Emmerdale viewers are now demanding Cain's return to rescue Moira from Celia's deceit and scheming.

Taking to X, one person wrote: "Where's Master Cain Dingle when you need him #Emmerdale."

A second asked: "Anyone seen Cain Dingle, who was last seen on 22nd October 2025? Once found, please return to his wife, Moira Dingle #Emmerdale."

A third joked, "Please come home to your wife, Cain. If anyone sees him, please ring the number his wife needs him ASAP if u see him, please call this number #Emmerdale.

"I'm having severe withdrawals here", exclaimed one fan as another added: "Celia is vile doing that to Moira, wait till Cain finds out #Emmerdale."