John Middleton, a well-known actor famous for his long tenure as vicar Ashley Thomas in Emmerdale, has reportedly decided to depart from his recent role in the Channel 4 drama Hollyoaks after only half a year. Middleton is known for his iconic and lovable television roles, so his portrayal of the menacing gangster Fraser 'Froggy' Black marked a significant departure from his previous characters. Producers are now tasked with creating a dramatic send-off for his character as they plan his exit.

The decision for Middleton to leave, after a brief tenure, has surprised fans and industry insiders alike, as it was anticipated that his portrayal would add significant depth and intrigue to the storyline of Hollyoaks. Upon his arrival last August, the show's executives had high hopes that the character would resonate well with audiences, given the stark contrast to Middleton's prior, more affable roles. However, for reasons that have not yet been disclosed, Middleton has chosen to move on.

Currently, there is speculation about how the writers will conclude the storyline for 'Froggy' Black. A source mentioned that producing teams are weighing the options of either killing off the character to provide closure or leaving the door open for a potential return in the future, which would keep the character's fate ambiguous. Further developments are to be expected as the series navigates this shift in its narrative dynamics.