Lawrence Robb leaves Emmerdale for Strictly Come Dancing

Lawrence Robb’s Emmerdale character Mackenzie Boyd is set to leave the village for a few months, with the soap confirming a farming course in Germany as the official exit storyline ^[1]. The decision, driven by Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley), has left several characters, including Matty Barton (Ash Palmisciano), surprised and disappointed ^[2]. Mack’s departure comes as Robb balances filming the ITV soap with his rising fame on Strictly Come Dancing, where he recently survived the Dance Off with partner Jowita Przystał.

The episode revealed Robert’s plan to send Mack to Germany to improve farm operations, a move met with mixed reactions. Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins), Mack’s wife, initially reacted with frustration, telling Robert he could ‘get stuffed’ ^[2]. However, she later expressed support, acknowledging the opportunity for Mack’s future and noting that their son Noah Dingle (Jack Downham) now lives in Germany ^[1].

Mack’s time away follows a year of intense drama, including being held captive by the unstable John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), surviving a near-fatal arrow attack, and confronting the fallout from Charity’s secret pregnancy with Ross Barton (Michael Parr) ^[1]. Despite the turmoil, the character remains optimistic about his new chapter.

Robb’s Strictly journey continues, with the actor performing the first Rumba of the 2026 series and securing a place in the next round via public votes ^[1]. The routine’s reception among the judging panel has not been confirmed, according to. His co-stars have voiced strong support, with Katie Hill praising his positivity and Jeff Hordley calling him a ‘joy’ and ‘dedicated’ ^[2].

Though the exit is temporary, fans are speculating on how long Mack will be away—expected to return after the Strictly champion is crowned ^[1]. The storyline underscores how real-life commitments are shaping on-screen narratives in the soap world. The story was first reported by Metro and Mirror.