Emmerdale fans will finally discover who killed villain Ray Walters in a special flashback week before the end of January 2026, show boss Laura Shaw has confirmed. The dramatic reveal will conclude a major mystery that began during the soap's recent 'Corriedale' event.
The Murder Mystery Unravels
The storyline saw the manipulative Ray, played by Joe Absolom, arrive in the village and coerce teenagers Dylan Penders and April Windsor into dealing drugs for him. Under the command of his boss and mother, the evil Celia Daniels, Ray repeatedly endangered their lives. However, a relationship with The Hide employee Laurel Thomas offered Ray a glimpse of a different life and made him see Celia's true nature.
In a desperate bid for freedom, Ray killed Celia, but he never got to enjoy life without her. Shortly after, he was murdered himself, with viewers seeing his body being dragged away by an unseen assailant. His body was later discovered in a van driven by Jai Sharma.
Laura Shaw explained the upcoming resolution: "Following the discovery of Ray’s body, villagers’ secrets will come out as the mystery surrounding Ray’s death is finally solved." She promised, "Before the end of January, a special week will flash back to the night of the murder, revealing which of the multiple suspects is responsible for Ray’s demise."
Heartbreak and Health Struggles for Key Characters
The producer also shed light on the devastating fallout from Celia's crimes for other villagers. She confirmed the bleak truth that Paddy Kirk's missing father, Bear Wolf, was killed by Celia. "This emotional search and tragic discovery will bring Paddy’s mental health problems back to the forefront," Shaw added.
Meanwhile, the Dingle family are set for a tumultuous year. Cain Dingle will be at the centre of a major prostate cancer storyline spanning 2026. Compounding their woes, Moira Dingle will be arrested for human trafficking, with her arrest timed to coincide with her husband's diagnosis. "Their complex marriage will be tested as they face dark times," Shaw said.
More Explosive Revelations Ahead
Shaw teased other major plots unfolding in the wake of Corriedale. The truth about John Sugden's death will be exposed, as Victoria Sugden's cover-up unravels. Evil Joe Tate has damning video evidence and plans to use it to get control of Butler’s Farm.
In a sensational twist, Graham Foster will return to the village full-time, explaining what really happened six years ago when he was presumed killed by Pierce Harris. His comeback will have massive repercussions for both Kim Tate and Rhona Goskirk.
Finally, Charity Dingle's pregnancy secret is nearing its reveal. Mackenzie mistakenly believes he is the father, but the truth that Ross is the real dad remains hidden. "With the baby due in spring, the birth may be the event that finally exposes all of Charity’s secrets," Shaw revealed.
