From the Dales to the Dancefloor

Former Emmerdale star Lewis Cope is winning over audiences again, this time on Strictly Come Dancing, where his performances have stunned judges and fans alike. The 30-year-old actor, dancing with professional partner Katya Jones, has already topped the leaderboard twice, including with an unforgettable Johnny Cash–inspired Quickstep to Ring of Fire.

But while viewers enjoy seeing him in sequins and spotlight, loyal Emmerdale fans are revisiting a burning question:

How did Nicky Miligan leave the village… and could he be coming back?

Nicky Miligan’s Complicated Story

Nicky arrived in Emmerdale in December 2022 as the estranged son of Caleb and Ruby Miligan. It didn’t take long for him to become embroiled in chaos. Under Caleb’s orders, Nicky worked as a live-in nanny at Home Farm, secretly helping execute a plan to take down Kim Tate and seize her fortune.

During the scheme, Nicky got engaged to Gabby Thomas, mother of Kim’s grandson. But on their wedding day, he delivered a heartbreaking revelation:

He was gay, and couldn’t go through with the marriage.

Love, Loss and Leaving the Village

Later, Nicky found unexpected love with Suni Sharma, who arrived in the village in 2023. Despite interference from Gabby, the two men grew closer and soon moved in together. But their happiness was cut short when Nicky was injured in a devastating car crash after a night out with Ethan Anderson.

Nicky was placed in a coma, and the village was rocked again when police confirmed Ethan was the driver. Ruby, fuelled by grief and rage, vowed revenge. Ethan later died from a brain aneurysm, leaving both families shattered.

By July 2024, Suni and Nicky made the difficult choice to leave Emmerdale behind and start a new life away from the village’s constant turmoil.

Could Nicky Be Returning?

Now, fans are convinced Nicky’s story may not be over. The discovery of the body of Anthony Fox, Nicky’s grandfather, has reignited speculation. Anthony was murdered in January by his daughter Ruby as she relived past trauma. John Sugden later helped cover up the crime—until Caleb unearthed the remains.

With Ruby and Caleb still entangled in secrets, a return from Nicky could push the storyline into explosive new territory.

One fan wrote on Facebook:
“I hope when Lewis Cope is done with Strictly he’ll come to Emmerdale.”
Another replied:
“Same here!”

For now, ITV is silent… but the Dales rarely stay quiet for long.

Could Nicky Miligan walk back into the village when viewers least expect it?

Time will tell.