Emmerdale delivered an unexpected twist on Thursday, August 7, 2025, when Steph Miligan (Georgia Jay) made her temporary exit from the village, leaving fans in shock after a tumultuous episode. The emotional rollercoaster culminated in a decision that sent one character packing, leaving a family reeling.

A Love Rekindled, But Torn Apart

Steph and Ross Barton (Michael Parr) had recently rekindled their romance after months of separation, but things took a drastic turn. The couple’s reunion followed a period of trauma for Steph, which led her to a breakdown that had initially caused the couple to split. Ross, devastated by the breakup, found himself in a brief fling with Manpreet Sharma (Rebecca Sarker), a secret that weighed heavily on him, especially with Steph’s father, Caleb (William Ash), urging him to be patient.

Manpreet, unaware that Ross and Steph were trying to work things out, became part of a scandal when she innocently revealed their night together in a conversation with Ruby (Beth Cordingly) and new café co-owner, Lewis Barton (Bradley Riches). The truth hit Steph hard—not because of the fling itself, but because Ross had lied about there being no other woman during their time apart.

Steph’s Emotional Departure

Hurt and devastated, Steph made a snap decision to leave the village. With Georgia Jay taking a planned screen break, this marked the moment for Steph to step away from the drama for a while, leaving Ross and their future in limbo. Will they reconnect when she returns? Or has this event marked the permanent end to their relationship?

Drama to Continue

As Steph departs, tensions are set to rise in the village. Ruby, in particular, is furious about the situation, and next week will see her clashing with Manpreet in an explosive showdown that could lead to both women facing arrest. It’s clear that while Steph’s exit is temporary, the fallout from her departure will have long-lasting effects on those left behind.

Fans will have to wait for Steph’s return to see if she gives Ross another chance or if their relationship has run its course.