After months of speculation, Emmerdale star William Ash has reassured fans that the explosive Anthony Fox murder storyline may finally be over.
The Murder That Rocked the Dales
Viewers will recall that Ruby Miligan (Beth Cordingly) killed Anthony after years of abuse. But it was John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) who disposed of the body, keeping its location a tightly guarded secret. For months, fans feared the hidden corpse would return to haunt the Miligans and Dingles.
Tension escalated when John scheduled an incriminating email to expose the crime. But in recent weeks, his other misdeeds came crashing down, forcing Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) to seek revenge for his son Nate’s death.
In a shocking twist, Caleb Miligan (William Ash) appeared to betray Cain, helping John flee in exchange for the promise of deleting the email and revealing the body’s location.
William Ash: “It’s Finished”
Speaking at the Cure Usher Ball, William Ash suggested the storyline has now run its course. “I think that’s been put to bed now,” he admitted, though he wasn’t entirely certain if the writers might revisit it.
Ash speculated that Caleb may have quietly moved Anthony’s body off-screen, closing the door on the plot. “I think it’s well and truly finished,” he added.
Fallout for Caleb and Cain
Even if the murder arc is behind them, the fallout is far from over. Caleb’s deal with John has fractured his relationship with Cain, who feels deeply betrayed. “Caleb and Cain really fall out,” Ash teased. “It’s going to take quite a lot to heal that. And with Aaron as well, because Caleb’s helped John get away.”
With Cain known for holding grudges, forgiveness may not come easily—if at all.
William Ash Beyond Emmerdale
Since joining Emmerdale, Ash’s Caleb has become a lightning rod for drama, from paternity revelations to murder cover-ups. But soap fans may also remember him from his role as deputy headteacher Chris Mead in Waterloo Road.
With the school drama recently returning for its 16th series, Ash was asked if he’d consider a comeback. Though he didn’t confirm anything, the thought of seeing him return to the classroom certainly intrigued fans.
Final Thoughts
While the Anthony Fox storyline appears to be “dead and buried,” the scars it left behind will continue to shape the relationships in the village—especially between Caleb, Cain, and Aaron. For now, the body may be gone, but the bitterness remains.
