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Emmerdale’s resident heartthrob, Lewis Cope, has sent pulses racing with his latest Instagram post, where he stripped down to nothing but a towel, showing off his chiseled physique.

The 29-year-old actor, who plays Nicky Milligan on the beloved soap, tagged his location as Emmerdale Village, standing next to a Holdgate Farm sign, wearing nothing but a towel and a pair of comfy grey slippers, flashing a wide grin to his followers.

This sultry snap comes on the heels of the shocking revelation about Nicky Milligan’s exit storyline, which has left fans and his on-screen family in turmoil.

The Dramatic Exit

Nicky’s exit has been one of the most talked-about storylines in Emmerdale’s recent history.

After being hospitalized following a car accident caused by Ethan Anderson, Nicky’s world turned upside down.

The drama intensified when his mother, Ruby, fueled by a vengeful streak, ran over Ethan in retaliation, believing him to be the cause of her son’s coma.

Although Ethan’s death was later attributed to other causes, the entire ordeal left Nicky deeply shaken.

Waking up to such chaos, Nicky’s decision to leave the Dales wasn’t made lightly.

His relationship with Suni, played by Brahmdeo Shannon Ramana, became his anchor amidst the storm.

The couple, who have been a significant representation of gay love on the show, are now contemplating a future away from Emmerdale.

Nicky’s plea to Suni to move away together underscores his need for a fresh start, away from the turmoil of his family’s actions.

Family Feuds and Heartfelt Goodbyes

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The conflict within Nicky’s family adds another layer of drama.

His father, Caleb, is desperate to keep his son close, while Ruby believes it’s time to let him find his own path.

This emotional tug-of-war will unfold in the upcoming episodes, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Lewis Cope’s portrayal of Nicky has been pivotal since he joined the soap in December 2022, initially as part of a major revenge plot against Kim Tate.

His chemistry with Suni, who entered the scene a year later, has been lauded, and their romance has been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ representation in the show.

Behind the Scenes

The timing of their exit during Pride Month has sparked controversy among fans.

However, sources from the show have clarified that Lewis and Brahmdeo decided to leave the soap before July.

“The fact is decisions are taken months in advance and there are lots of different factors that go into things like this,” a source told The Sun.

This explanation highlights the complex nature of soap opera productions and the multiple elements that influence storyline decisions.

A Bright Future Ahead

While fans are saddened by the departure of one of Emmerdale’s most adored couples, the future looks bright for Lewis Cope and Brahmdeo Shannon Ramana.

Their roles on Emmerdale have not only showcased their acting talents but also played a significant part in representing gay relationships on mainstream television, earning them a special place in the hearts of viewers.

As Lewis Cope stuns fans with his ripped physique and we bid farewell to Nicky Milligan’s dramatic storyline, one thing is certain: both Lewis and Brahmdeo have made an indelible mark on Emmerdale, and their fans will eagerly await their next endeavors.

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