Emmerdale fans were gobsmacked as Jeff Hordley was replaced as Cain Dingle in tonight's show.
The soap star is renowned for his portrayal of the legendary Emmerdale character. He is enduring yet another turbulent time in the Yorkshire village as he is currently serving time in prison after he was charged with the murder of Al Chapman.
However, Cain is innocent and he has pleaded guilty to protect his son Kyle, who is the real killer. The Yorkshire village was rocked on Christmas Day by the arrival of Cain's long lost brother, Caleb.
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Tonight's show was a flashback episode as it explored the origins of Cain and Caleb's relationship in a plot set in 1991. The young Cain Dingle was played by Aiden Kane, who won acclaim from fans following the show on Twitter.
Jeff has played Cain since 2000 and fans following the show were amazed at how well his "replacement" captured his mannerisms in the flashback scenes.
Stephen said: "The guy who played the young Cain was fantastic! So like him."
Laura added: "The actor who played young Cain in Emmerdale tonight was bloody outstanding! Had Cain's mannerisms and voice down"
@Flicksfan posted: "Great episode. New writers? The character of Cain has been given a 3rd dimension. The young Cain & Chas are convincing & touching & Caleb offers an interesting new plot source"
Angela tweeted: "Young Cain absolutely smashed that episode!"
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