Emmerdale: Arthur's back! Where exactly has he been?

Arthur Thomas is back in Emmerdale. Thursday’s episode (August 29) saw a return to the Dales for Arthur following a brief break.

During his absence, he has missed out on a whole heap of drama, including mum Laurel’s heart attack and her split from Jai.

But where exactly has Arthur been and why did he leave Emmerdale?

Emmerdale's Arthur is smiling — Arthur returned to the Dales (Credit: ITV)

Where did Arthur go?

The start of the year was a tough one for Arthur after his friend Heath died in a car accident.

He later disappeared from screen for a couple of months…

Following an argument with new husband Jai, who insulted her late husband – and Arthur’s dad – Ashley, Laurel suffered a heart attack.

It was during her recovery that Arthur’s absence was mentioned on screen – with Laurel explaining he was in Australia.

Viewers previously saw Arthur’s grandfather Doug leave the Dales for a new life in Australia in 2020, so presumably Arthur went to spend time with him following his tough year.

Arthur left before Laurel and Jai split (Credit: ITV)

Why did Arthur leave?

In real life, Alfie Clarke, who plays Arthur was studying for his GCSEs. The youngster is 16, so took time off to concentrate on his exams.

He shared photos to Instagram of himself and his mates at his school prom. He later posted a snap of the Emmerdale sign with the caption: “Good to be back.”

But what has he come back to? Mum Laurel is currently struggling amid Jai’s determination to fight dirty in their divorce. Laurel has had to continue working with her ex and faced insults daily. Will Arthur’s return lift her spirits?

Spoilers for the rest of the week share that Arthur wastes no time in defending his mum and Jai is unsettled to see that Arthur means business…

Has Jai met his match?