After another long-running character left the drama, EMMERDALE fans were incensed.

After 17 years, Matthew Wolfenden, who played David Metcalfe, has left the ITV serial opera.

The actor, 43, made the shocking decision and blames the absence of grim plots for his departure from soap operas.

Along with Rishi Sharma (Bhasker Patel), Dan Spencer (Liam Fox), and Bernice Blackstock (Samantha Giles), he has also left the Dales.

Now that “there will be no one left” in Emmerdale, supporters are outraged.

“This is getting ridiculous now,” one person said. I’m starting to suspect something is going on behind the scenes because so many performers are leaving.

In addition to being a father figure to his previous step-son Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant), David joined the serial opera in 2006 and has since been a part of several significant storylines, including three weddings.

This comes after competitor Hollyoaks, a Channel 4 soap opera, was similarly charged with being in trouble after three producers were removed amid backstage strife and declining ratings.

The set is in a state of turmoil, an insider informed The Sun. The cast and crew were obviously dissatisfied with the course of events. Never has morale been this low.

Lime Pictures had to act since the ratings were falling, the plot lines weren’t functioning, and the environment on set was toxic.

Fans shared their predictions about David’s departure from the village on social media around this time.

One person plotted: “Could be a death during’stunt week'”

Someone else commented, “Perhaps his cancer will return?”

“Another cow stampede?” a third remarked.