Emmerdale Fans Swoon Over Rare Throwback of Bear Wolf Actor Joshua Richards from 26 Years Ago

Emmerdale viewers have been left swooning after a vintage photo of Joshua Richards — the actor best known for portraying Bear Wolf — resurfaced online, offering a glimpse of the star from more than two decades ago.

Joshua, who joined the beloved ITV soap in 2019, made an unforgettable entrance as Bear, the long-lost father of Paddy Kirk (played by Dominic Brunt). His introduction immediately shook up life in the Dales, leading to heartfelt reconciliations and fiery clashes alike. According to Digital Spy, Bear’s relationship with Paddy has provided “some of the show’s most emotional father-son moments in recent years.”

The actor’s character, a retired wrestler with a gruff exterior but a warm heart, has been at the centre of several major storylines since arriving in Emmerdale village. However, in July, tensions came to a head when Bear abruptly left the Dales after a heated argument with Paddy. Viewers watched as he claimed to be heading off to Ireland to visit a friend — but his mysterious disappearance has since taken a worrying turn.

As reported by the Daily Star, Friday’s episode (November 7) revealed that Bear never actually made it to Ireland. Paddy received a parcel and letter from Bear’s supposed friend, only to discover through a series of phone calls that his father had never arrived. In growing distress, Paddy turned to the police for help, fearing the worst.

The unfolding storyline has left fans anxious and emotional, with social media filled with speculation about Bear’s fate. “This twist is heartbreaking — I really hope Bear’s okay,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter), while another added, “Joshua Richards is such an underrated actor; he brings so much warmth to the role.” (The Mirror)

Though Emmerdale marks Joshua’s soap debut, the seasoned actor boasts an impressive career that spans stage and screen. Before joining the ITV series, Richards performed with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company, honing his craft in productions such as King Lear and Henry IV (as noted by The Guardian). His transition to television and film saw him land supporting roles alongside major Hollywood names — starring with Brad Pitt in the 2004 blockbuster Troy and appearing opposite Hugh Grant in Amazon Prime’s A Very English Scandal.

Still, it’s a long-forgotten television appearance that’s currently stealing fans’ hearts. A throwback clip from Heartbeat — the classic ITV drama from the 1990s — has gone viral after resurfacing on social media. In the 1999 episode, Joshua appeared as Detective Inspector Haggarty, a sharp, stoic figure who left a lasting impression on viewers.

Reactions from the Emmerdale fan community have been overwhelmingly affectionate. One admirer wrote on Facebook: “He looks rather handsome here!” Another chimed in: “I can’t believe that’s the same man!” A third fan added: “What a transformation — Joshua has aged like fine wine.”

The throwback has reignited appreciation for Richards’ long career and versatile acting range. As Radio Times observed in a retrospective feature, “Joshua Richards brings quiet gravitas to every role — whether it’s Shakespeare on stage or soapland drama in the Dales.”

With Bear Wolf’s fate still hanging in the balance, fans are hoping this isn’t the last they’ll see of Richards on Emmerdale. For now, though, the actor’s nostalgic throwback has given long-time viewers something to smile about — a reminder of just how far he’s come since those Heartbeat days.

(Sources: Daily Star, The Mirror, Digital Spy, The Guardian, Radio Times)