Emmerdale fans thought they’d seen the worst of Celia Daniels — but according to actress Jaye Griffiths, the real chaos is only just beginning.
Celia Exposed as the Mastermind Behind the County Lines Operation
When Jaye Griffiths joined Emmerdale, her character was teased as a strong-willed and controversial new addition. From her dog attacking Paddy Kirk to exploiting Moira Dingle’s financial troubles, Celia made enemies fast. But the latest bombshell revelation has cemented her as one of the village’s most dangerous villains yet.
It’s now been revealed that Celia is the mastermind pulling the strings behind Ray Walters and the County Lines drug network that’s ensnared young April Windsor. The twist shocked viewers — but as Griffiths confirms, things are only going to get darker.
“That’s Not Even the Worst Thing She Does”
Appearing on Loose Women, Griffiths reflected on Celia’s recent actions and teased what’s to come. After watching a tense clip of Celia threatening Ray, she warned viewers that the worst is still ahead.
“That’s not even the worst thing she does, especially to him,” Griffiths said. “It’s gonna get worse.”
That chilling statement suggests that Celia’s manipulative streak is only beginning to unfold — and her grip on the drug operation may soon turn lethal.
Public Reaction and Playing a Villain
Despite Celia’s growing list of crimes, Griffiths admitted she’s been pleasantly surprised by the public’s reaction so far.
“People have been quite nice to me about Celia,” she laughed, “but I think that might change after she slaps April.”
The incident — which has already caused an uproar online — marks a turning point in Celia’s story, showing that her cruelty extends beyond business and into personal vendettas.
Still, Griffiths confessed she’s relishing the opportunity to dive into the character’s darker side.
“I love her. It’s so great — you just let go of any conscience, any empathy, and just turn it all off. There’s no… doesn’t care. It’s so liberating.”
Behind the Scenes: Griffiths on Working With Dominic Brunt
Jaye also opened up about her audition process, revealing she had to do an intense chemistry test with Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy Kirk.
“They made up a scene for four and a half minutes — which is a very long time — in his lunch hour, and him playing opposite me,” she shared. “He gave me all of his hour and made me feel immense. He learnt all the lines backwards. He never once rolled his eyes or sighed. This is him giving up his time.”
Griffiths’ admiration for her co-star echoes what many Emmerdale actors have said about Brunt — a veteran of the soap known for his generosity and dedication.
What’s Next for Celia Daniels?
With her control over Ray and the County Lines network tightening, Celia’s reign of terror in the Dales is far from over. Her manipulation of vulnerable villagers, violent outbursts, and ability to outwit her enemies have made her one of Emmerdale’s most compelling modern villains.
As Griffiths teases that “it’s going to get worse,” fans can expect shocking twists, dangerous consequences, and perhaps even a major downfall waiting just around the corner.
One thing is certain — Celia Daniels has no intention of stopping.
