One of Emmerdale's most despicable characters is set for a dramatic departure as actress Jaye Griffiths confirms her exit from the popular ITV soap.
The Reign of Terror Ends
Celia Daniels, portrayed by Jaye Griffiths, has established herself as one of the most vile characters in British soap history during her time in the Dales. The criminal mastermind has been at the centre of a large-scale organised crime operation that has left a trail of destruction through the village.
Her heinous activities have included drug and human trafficking, forcing vulnerable people into prostitution, and operating what amounts to modern-day slavery. Working alongside her subordinate Ray Walters, played by Joe Absolom, Celia has demonstrated there are few lines she won't cross in her ruthless pursuit of money and power.
The Victims of Celia's Cruelty
The character's devastating impact on Emmerdale residents has been extensive. Former homeless man Dylan Penders found himself drawn into her criminal organisation, while young April Windsor was systematically groomed, manipulated and terrorised into dealing drugs and engaging in sex work.
Perhaps most shockingly, Bear Wolf endured enslavement under Celia's command, forced to live and work in barbaric conditions that highlighted the character's complete lack of humanity.
Speaking about her departure, Griffiths expressed mixed emotions. 'I knew it was finite, which I am very sad about, because I would like to stay forever, but it's such a strong arc,' the actress told Metro.
Behind the Villainous Persona
Despite playing such a monstrous character, Griffiths described her experience working on Emmerdale as 'heaven'. She praised the production team as 'gentle and kind and professional and funny', adding that 'people care that we tell the story properly.'
The role marked a significant departure from Griffiths' usual characters. 'I usually get the upstanding, morally robust people. Doctors, police officers, lawyers,' she explained. 'Whereas Celia, her compass is buried. She doesn't need one, she just needs to make money.'
According to the actress, what makes Celia such a compelling villain is her complete absence of self-doubt. 'Celia doesn't have that little voice in your head that tells women they're not enough,' Griffiths revealed. 'She just lives in, 'what do I want? What's best for business?'
When asked how Celia would react if her crimes were exposed, Griffiths was clear: 'I think you'll see annoyance. The idea that she would get caught is inconceivable. She will throw anyone under the bus before herself.'
Playing such a heinous character presented unique challenges for the actress. Griffiths found embodying Celia's 'shut down' humanity particularly exhausting, noting that 'caring about your fellow humans is what makes you a human.'
As Emmerdale fans await Celia's explosive exit, scheduled for November 2025, they can expect the character to go out with the same ruthless determination that has defined her terrifying reign over the village.
