ITV Emmerdale’s Sam Dingle legend sends ‘selfish’ message following co-star’s exit after 15 years

For the first time, actor James Hooton has spoken on his co-star’s departure from the ITV serial opera.

**Emmerdale’s James Hooton playing Sam Dingle** (Image: ITV)

James Hooton, star of Emmerdale, has addressed his co-star’s departure for the first time. Famous for his role as Sam Dingle in the ITV serial opera, the actor claimed that’selfishly’ he wanted Sam Hall to remain in the Dales.

After being arrested for assaulting his erstwhile buddy Josh Cope, Samson Dingle was informed of his fate during Tuesday night’s (August 6) episode of Emmerdale. After admitting that Matty Barton was speaking the truth about the stabbing that occurred earlier this year, the teenager was already facing jail time.

Samson was getting ready for prison time since he was going to be prosecuted for lying to the police. But Samson became angry and attacked Josh when he refused to disclose the truth about his involvement in the stabbing that first resulted in Matty’s imprisonment.

After Samson’s sentence of four years in prison was confirmed, there was a tearful scene in which Sam and Samson confessed their love to one another. Sam then started crying as Samson was taken away to do his time.

Following the show, Emmerdale released a farewell letter from Sam, who replaced three child actors who had previously portrayed Sam Dingle’s kid in 2009. Sam took up the role in 2009.

As you can see, Samson has now departed from the community. I want to thank all of the actors and crew who have supported me over the past 15 years; it’s been an amazing narrative,” he remarked. Then, Sam made a playful allusion to a potential comeback, saying, “Hopefully, we’ll see Samson again.”

**There were emotional scenes as Samson was sent to prison** (Image: ITV)

After resharing the article on X, now known as Twitter, James, who has played Sam on the popular soap opera for over 30 years, wrote: “It has been such a joy to work with Sam Hall these last 15 years! An amazing performer with a promising future. In my selfish opinion, I hope he returns to the show eventually, but until then, he’ll be amazing in anything he does.”

Also, a ton of remarks concerning Sam’s departure flooded Jame’s fans and followers’ post. “Sorry to see him go amazing at what he does,” commented @MandyC_90. Sam, best of luck with your future. “Sad he’s gone,” commented @GriffithsGail. What a lovely and intelligent young man to observe. I wish him well in his future endeavors.” In addition, @teamdaryldixon8 said, “I’ll miss Samson, such a great actor and a lovely young man, I wish him all the best.”