Emmerdale have recast Kirin Kotecha ahead of Charity Dingle's heartbreaking adoption storyline.
The Woolpack owner, played by Emma Atkins, is preparing to adopt partner Vanessa Woodfield's son Johnny in the event that she tragically dies.
However, Charity needs the consent of Johnny's dad Kirin, who escaped the Dales after killing Tess Harris in a car accident.
Over the last few months, Charity has attempted to track Kirin down - to no avail, despite help from Kirin's former stepmother Priya.
But Kirin will be stepping back into the village as newcomer Rish Shah takes over the role from Adam Fielding, Digital Spy have reported.
Adam quit the role in 2016 after playing Kirin for two years and has since gone on to star in BBC One crime drama In the Dark and Channel 4's Ackley Bridge.
Rish, who has appeared in Years and Years, Casualty and Doctors, will appear as Kirin for a few episodes - though it is not clear whether he will become a permanent fixture in the future.
Vanessa is trying to make plans for her son's future as she undergoes treatment for bowel cancer.
Charity has been desperately trying to find Kirin to ensure that she can adopt Johnny but has been unable to as he is on the run in America.
What does Kirin's return to the Dales mean for Johnny's future?
And will Charity be able to adopt Johnny?
*Emmerdale airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7pm on ITV
