Dramatic exit

Howard’s sudden exit and Emma’s miscarriage have left us all in shock. We talked to Peter Lloyd, Series Producer, to get the low-down on why the sudden exit - and what it means for the rest of the Surgery.

You don’t often kill off characters, so why Howard?

Howard was a huge character on the show and had strong relationships with all the regulars. When Ian decided to leave, we thought about all the different scenarios, but felt a sudden death would have the most impact and would produce many new stories with a lot of potential.

Did you ever plan for Emma and Howard to have a happy ever after?

Of course we talked about it, but whether the relationship would’ve survived the miscarriage, I’m not so sure.

How do you keep stories like this secret?

With an awful lot of cooperation from actors, directors, writers and the press! People understand we want it to be a shock, since it’s so sudden and unexpected; spoilers would ruin it for the viewers.

Who will take over the Practice Manager's role?

It’s up for grabs, though I’m sure fans will have someone in mind who’s already got ambitions...

Will you be bringing in another character like Howard?

Of course not, that would be poor drama!

Will Emma be ok? Will she stay at The Mill?

Emma’s had a huge double shock; how can she be okay? The repercussions for her will be hard felt and difficult to recover from. Grief can do strange things to people, but it’s more interesting to have her around so we can see how that manifests.

Howard Bellamy was a big character, and so was Ian Kelsey. Will he be missed?

Ian brought something unique to the show and of course we all miss him and his gags!