Gabrielle Dowling announced her temporary departure from Emmerdale in March 2025, ending an eighteen-year portrayal of Cathy Hope, not Bernice Blackstock as initially reported. The actress, who joined the British soap opera in 2007 as a child, successfully shifted into a young adult performer while her character became integral to family drama storylines. Her departure storyline aired in July 2025, featuring a cruise with Brenda Walker, with production sources citing A-level exam preparation as the primary reason for her break, though additional details surrounding her decision reveal more complexity.
After nearly eighteen years portraying Cathy Hope on the British soap opera Emmerdale, actress Gabrielle Dowling announced in March 2025 that she would be taking a temporary break from the long-running ITV series. The departure marks the end of an era for one of television’s most enduring character portrayals, as Dowling began playing the daughter of Viv and Bob Hope in 2007 at the age of six.
Dowling’s tenure represents a remarkable achievement in British television, making her one of the few actors to successfully shift from child performer to young adult while maintaining the same role throughout nearly two decades. Her character, Cathy Hope, became integral to numerous storylines involving family drama, teen health issues, and community dynamics that define Emmerdale’s rural setting.
Dowling’s nearly two-decade portrayal of Cathy Hope represents a rare successful transition from child actor to young adult performer.
The exit storyline, which aired in early July 2025, featured Cathy Hope departing alongside Brenda Walker, portrayed by Lesley Dunlop, on a cruise. This departure method was specifically crafted to maintain narrative flexibility, allowing for potential future returns while providing emotional closure for long-term viewers who watched Dowling mature on screen.
Production sources described Dowling’s reason for leaving as “important” but declined to provide specific details, emphasizing the temporary nature of her absence rather than a permanent exit. The decision aligns with industry trends supporting actor well-being and career development, particularly for performers who have dedicated significant portions of their lives to single roles. Reports indicate the break is intended for A-level exam preparation, highlighting the young actress’s commitment to her education.
Fan reactions across social media platforms highlighted the rarity of Dowling’s achievement, with viewers expressing both nostalgia and support for her decision. Entertainment media coverage emphasized her status as one of Emmerdale’s longest-serving cast members, noting her consistent presence in ensemble scenes and charity episodes that showcase the series’ community-focused themes.
As of July 2025, no official announcements regarding Dowling’s future projects have emerged, though her continued social media activity suggests ongoing engagement with fans. The character of Cathy Hope remains uncast, indicating producers’ intention to preserve the role for Dowling’s potential return.
Her departure contributes to broader cast evolution as Emmerdale balances veteran performers with new character introductions.
