Emmerdale’s friendship entered a new chapter when Mackenzie Boyd – who was once considered a brash person – stood up to challenge Kev Townsend, protecting Aaron from danger.

When he learned that Kev was threatening his friend, Mack didn’t think twice.

He went straight to the pub, threw a beer bottle on Kev’s table, and said: “If you touch Aaron again, I won’t let you go.”

The whole pub fell silent.

Kev smiled faintly: “You don’t know who you’re messing with.” Mack approached, looked straight: “I don’t care. I just know Aaron is family.”

That confrontation scene gave viewers goosebumps – because in that moment, Mack was no longer the joking guy, but a warrior willing to risk his life for his friend. After that, he secretly followed Kev, discovering that he was involved with a smuggling group that had gotten Aaron into trouble. Mack makes plans with Cain Dingle – and the two decide to strike first.

That night, Mack confronts Kev on the riverbank, the scene is tense. Kev tries to pull out a knife, Mack says: “Let’s try.” The fight is brief but ends when Kev falls into the water, disappearing. Mack gasps, his hands shaking. Cain appears behind him, whispers: “We’re not done yet, Kev will be back.” And sure enough – the ending is a muddy hand clinging to the riverbank. Kev is still alive.