Danny Miller quits Emmerdale

'Emmerdale' star Danny Miller has announced he is quitting the ITV1 soap next year ''to explore other roles''.

'Emmerdale' star Danny Miller is quitting the soap next year.

The actor - who plays troubled gay character Aaron Livesy in the ITV1 show - has announced he will be leaving the series in spring 2012 to "explore other roles".

In a statement, he said: "It has been an incredibly difficult decision but after three years playing Aaron and much soul-searching, I am eager to explore other roles.

"I am so grateful to 'Emmerdale' for the opportunity that I have been given and have loved every moment. I will miss everyone enormously but this might not be the last we see of Aaron."

Series producer Stuart Blackburn admitted he and everyone involved with the soap are disappointed Danny has decided to leave, but has promised Aaron will exit the village with a bang.

Stuart said: "We completely respect Danny's decision and are very grateful for the hard work and commitment he has brought to his role as Aaron. We wish him all the best for the future and in the meantime there is still plenty more drama to come from Aaron well into 2012."

Danny first appeared in 'Emmerdale' in 2008 and has been involved in one of its biggest ever storylines in the past 12 months with viewers watching his character participate in the assisted suicide of his tetraplegic boyfriend Jackson Walsh (Marc Silcock).