Category: Cast

Emmerdale star Sammy Winward in profile: ‘Secret’ marriage to childhood sweetheart and rumoured ‘feud’ with teenage daughter

Sammy Winward played Katie Sugden in Emmerdale for almost 15 years. She’s got a grown-up daughter, an impressive acting CV, and she’s not yet 40!

Her life isn’t as dramatic as alter ego Katie’s was, but there are some similarities! Here’s her story.

Sammy’s early years

Emmerdale star Sammy Winward was born in Bolton and started acting as a child. She won the role of Katie Addyman in Emmerdale when she was just 15.

Sammy was just 15 when she started playing Katie (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Katie Sugden’s dramatic years in Emmerdale

Katie Addyman first appeared on screen back in 2001. She and Andy Sugden hit it off and fell in love. They even moved in together when they were just 17. But things got tricky and Katie ended up having an affair with Andy’s brother, Robert.

Katie and Robert got engaged but he cheated with Sadie King, and Katie left the village for a while.

In real life, Sammy was pregnant with her daughter, and was off on maternity leave!

Andy and Katie tied the knot twice (Credit: ITV)

Back to the village for Emmerdale star Sammy Winward

A few months later after being involved in a car accident, Katie came back to Emmerdale. The crash killed her dad and the hospital called Andy as her next of kin.

Katie and Andy tried to make their marriage work but Andy eventually cheated with Jo Stiles and they parted.

When Katie offered to be a surrogate for Grayson and Perdita Hyde-Sinclair, she didn’t realise how unstable their marriage was until it was too late and she was pregnant. After a lot of drama, Katie gave the baby boy to Perdita.

Katie married Declan Macey but their marriage was rocky from the start and when Declan covered up the discovery of a body on his land, Katie left him.

Katie was determined to find out who Robert was sleeping with (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Andy again

More ups and downs followed, until eventually Katie and Andy reconciled and got married again. But Robert was back in the village and with the brothers’ feud reignited, Katie was on a mission to discover who Robert was having an affair with.

When she found Robert and Aaron kissing, the secret was out! Katie took a photo on her phone and when Aaron left, she confronted Robert.

He turned aggressive trying to get Katie’s phone and when she lunged at him, he shoved her and she fell through the floor and died. Robert told Aaron it was an accident and the pair covered up the crime.

Sammy played Sonia Sutcliffe in ITV drama The Long Shadow (Credit: ITV)

What is Emmerdale star Sammy Winward doing now?

Sammy appeared in Prey alongside Philip Glenister in 2015, and a film called Lies We Tell in 2017. In 2019 she appeared in short film Lead Belly alongside Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas.

After a break from acting, during which she worked as a teacher, last year she played Sonia Sutcliffe – Peter Sutcliffe’s wife – in the ITV drama about the Yorkshire Ripper, The Long Shadow.

Sammy has returned to acting recently and has married her childhood sweetheart (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Is Sammy Winward married?

Sammy was engaged to former Blackburn Rovers player David Dunn. They have a daughter called Mia, who is now . The couple split just two months after Mia’s birth.

In 2017, Sammy married her childhood sweetheart Martyn Hardy. The pair had dated as teens and rekindled their romance later in life. Sammy didn’t reveal she had wed until four years after their big day. She shared a photo on her Instagram feed and wrote: “Six years today since I got engaged to the love of my life, four years married, 24 years of friendship and still going strong. Here’s to 24+ more.”

Fans were stunned as they didn’t even realise she had a boyfriend, let alone a husband! “Well done for being able to keep it private,” one commented on the post.

Sammy Winward and daughter Mia appeared on Loose Women in 2021

Sammy Winward reportedly in feud with daughter

Recent reports suggest there is a bit of a family rift between Mia and her parents. Back in the summer, Mia told The Sun her mum and dad don’t approve of her posting content to OnlyFans.

Speaking of her mum, Mia claimed: “She said some pretty mean things when we did last speak, it was awful. But I absolutely love my mum, I love all of my family but none of them speak to me now.

“I will always love and appreciate them. I hope that one day we can rebuild our relationship and move on.”

Although Sammy has not commented on the interview, back in 2021, she told Loose Women how she and Mia were like “best friends”.

Sammy said: “I always thought, ‘Oh my god I’m only going to be 36/37 when she is 18. And I’m nearly there now. It’s just crazy because we just feel like best mates really.

“Obviously there is the mother and daughter relationship but we’re more like best mates,” she added.

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter

17th October 2024
Emmerdale star Steve Halliwell: Multiple health struggles, stint in prison and homelessness – inside the actor’s life as soap says farewell to Zak Dingle

Emmerdale is this week paying tribute to the legendary Steve Halliwell, who played Zak Dingle on the ITV soap.

Steve died aged 77 in December 2023. Now Zak is having his farewell on screen. The episodes this week have been moving and emotional and fans have called the soap ‘respectful’ for the way they have handled Steve’s death.

It’s clear everyone on and off screen at Emmerdale, as well as millions of fans, will miss both Steve and Zak very much. But with the actor having been off screen for long stretches of time, viewers had already started to fear for Zak’s future before Steve passed away.

In real life, Steve underwent a secret health battle in 2018 after a mysterious absence from screens. And prior to this he had been open about his mental health struggles too.

Zak Dingle in Emmerdale was one of the soap’s most iconic characters (Credit: ITV)

Emmerdale star Steve Halliwell dies aged 77

The soap released a statement on December 15, 2023 confirming the Zak Dingle actor had died “peacefully”.

It said: “It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that Emmerdale can confirm that Steve Halliwell, our beloved Zak Dingle, has peacefully passed away.

“All our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones through this very difficult time, and we’d request that their privacy is respected as they grieve for his loss.”

They continued: “Steve will forever be synonymous with Emmerdale. The proud defender and head of the Dingle family. Heart and humour in all he did, it has been and always will be impossible not to smile when you think of him.”

His family also shared a moving tribute.

“He went to sleep, peacefully with his loved ones around him,” they said.

“He was making us laugh to the end, the most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him. We would like to thank the wonderful staff at St James Hospital and the Wheatfield Hospice for their love and kindness in his final days. He didn’t want sadness, just to rejoice in a life well lived.”

A cause of death has never been confirmed for Steve.

Steve Halliwell was an Emmerdale icon (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Emmerdale star Steve Halliwell and his ongoing health battles

Steve was absent from Emmerdale in 2018 due to health concerns. After five months off screen the actor explained why Zak had really been missing. He was rushed to hospital for a life-or-death operation on his heart.

The Sun Online revealed that the Lancashire-born actor had a pacemaker fitted in September 2018, after suffering serious heart problems.

At the time the actor told the newspaper’s website: “I’m back at work in a few weeks and feeling fitter than ever after having a pacemaker fitted in September. It’s done me the world of good and I feel fantastic.”

He went on to say how understanding and “brilliant” his employers had been, revealing: “Emmerdale has been brilliant throughout and really looked after me.

“I did have to spend some time in hospital and it was really funny to see the entire Dingle clan around my bed. Everyone has been so considerate and I know it sounds a bit of a clichÃ©, but we really are one big happy family.”

Steve and his mental health demons

The actor made no secret of the fact he had suffered with his mental health in the past. In 2003, Steve took a break from Emmerdale as he checked into rehab to get help for his alcohol issues.

In 2014 he told The Mirror: “There’s depression, drinking and having to fight your way out of situations. I’ve lived all those things â€“ and more.”

Steve had also experienced other struggles in his life. He told TV Times in a past interview: “Everything the Dingles had been through, I had too â€“ trouble with the police, fighting, being evicted. And if there were any aspects of Zak’s life I hadn’t lived, I knew people who had.”

Before he won the role of Zak Dingle Steve was once homeless. He was also arrested for sleeping rough. He told the publication he was “so hungry and got very thin”.

Steve revealed: “Back then, it was illegal to be homeless and I was arrested for sleeping in an empty Government building.” He spent two weeks on remand in Ashford prison.

The actor was also arrested after a gang incident. He took the blame for a brick being thrown through an off-licence window. He then spent three months in a detention centre.

Zak’s health on-screen had had fans worried (Credit: ITV)

Worries for Zak Dingle in Emmerdale

Before Steve passed away in December, viewers had been concerned for Steve’s health. The character appeared less and less on screen and looked more and more frail.

Zak had spent much time in Scotland with granddaughter Debbie. He was last seen on screen back in June 2023 when he revealed his health was declining. Cain was the only one who knew about his dad’s health struggles after finding him on the floor unable to get up.

This sparked fears for Zak with fans commenting:Â “Zak is getting more and more frail,” and another adding:Â “Poor Zak’s a mere slip of a man compared to the beast he was when he first arrived in the village.”

A third viewer worried: “Zak looks extremely ill.”

Zak’s death news certainly hit the Dingles hard (Credit: ITV)

Zak’s death in Emmerdale

Despite his passing December 2023, Emmerdale waited to pay tribute to Steve Halliwell on screen. They are now honouring his life as the Dingles celebrate 30 years in the village.

Earlier this month Cain went to Scotland after learning his dad was ill. He returned on Monday October 14 saying Zak was feeling much better.

However moments after his return, Debbie called and revealed Zak had died. He had been out poaching that morning and told Debbie it was the best morning ever. Zak then fell asleep in his chair and didn’t wake up.

As Cain broke the news to the Dingles on Tuesday October 15, there was not a dry eye in the house. Many fans called it the ‘best episode ever’. Bravo Emmerdale, bravo.

Read more:Â Complete Emmerdale cast 2024

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside

16th October 2024
All the Emmerdale stars who have appeared on Dancing on Ice – including four winners!

Emmerdale stars have a strong track record when it comes to competing on Dancing On Ice. Torvill and Dean’s ITV ice dancing show is one of the hardest reality shows, and certainly isn’t for the faint-hearted.

Over its 16 series, four stars of the Dales have skated their way to victory. But can you remember who they are?

Let’s take a look at every Emmerdale star who set foot on the ice rink. Who got booted out early, and which ones made it all the way to Bolero?

Emmerdale stars on Dancing on Ice: The winners!

Triumphant Gaynor won series one with Daniel Whiston (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Gaynor Faye

Gaynor Faye was the first celebrity to ever win Dancing On Ice way back in 2006. At the time, the actress was best known for her Coronation Street role as Judy Mallett.

Gaynor was partnered with professional skater Daniel Whiston. The popular pair beat actors Stefan Booth and Bonnie Langford to lift the trophy. Gaynor then went on to perform in the Dancing On Ice live tour in 2010. And two years after that she joined the cast of Emmerdale, playing Megan Macey from 2012 to 2019.

Winner Suzanne Shaw clutches her trophy alongside partner Matt Evers and Torvill and Dean (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Suzanne Shaw

Super-skilled Suzanne Shaw skated/headbanged her way to victory in 2008. The singer and actress was partnered with American pro Matt Evers and impressed the judges with their daring routines.

Their dance to Madonna’s Music was a highlight of the series and earnt them 6.0s across the board. Even usually cold-hearted judge Jason Gardiner was wowed. Suzanne became the series three champion, beating actors Chris Fountain and Zaraah Abrahams. The star went on to have a year-long stint in Emmerdale, playing the flirtatious Eve Jenson.

Dan and Hayley were a dream team on the ice – especially in this number (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Hayley Tamaddon

Another natural on the ice was Hayley Tamaddon, who won the fifth series in 2010. The actress was already known to millions for her role as Emmerdale’s Delilah Dingle.

Hayley was partnered with Daniel Whiston, who she’d been friends with since childhood. The pair were strong contenders from the start, but their moment of glory came in the show’s Movie Week. Dressed in gold, Hayley and Daniel danced to the song Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny) from the smash hit movie Slumdog Millionaire.

The flawless routine earnt them maximum scores and has also gone down in DOI history. Hayley was crowned champion, beating Hollyoaks actors Gary Lucy and Kieron Richardson.

Emmerdale star Matthew Wolfenden was another Dancing on Ice winner (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Matthew Wolfenden

Matthew Wolfenden was a master of the blades and the fourth Emmerdale star to lift the trophy. He triumphed in the 2012 series alongside pro partner Nina Ulanova.

Matthew and Hollyoaks star Jorgie Porter emerged as the front runners from week one, and their skate-off to Madonna’s 4 Minutes was one to remember. Matthew pipped Jorgie and X Factor star Chico in the final of the ITV show. He returned to his day job of playing Emmerdale’s David Metcalfe, but kept skating, taking part in a DOI national arena tour.

Emmerdale stars on Dancing on Ice: The almost made its!

Aussie Emily and partner Dan were given flowers when they were eliminated (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Emily Symons

Australian actress Emily Symons was playing Emmerdale’s Louise Appleton when she got the call to take part in DOI. She then became a contestant in the second series, which aired in 2007.

Emily became Daniel Whiston’s second partner. The pair impressed the ‘Ice Panel’ with their heartfelt routines and made it all the way to the semi-final. They finished in fourth place behind Duncan James, Clare Buckfield and winner Kyran Bracken.

Dan Whiston was often paired with Emmerdale stars on Dancing On Ice – including Linda Lusardi (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Linda Lusardi

Linda Lusardi competed in Dancing On Ice’s third season in 2008. At the time she was a regular in Emmerdale, playing the character of Carrie Nicholls. Linda was also partnered with the popular Daniel Whiston. The duo danced to tracks such as Robbie Williams’ She’s the One and Christina Aguilera’s Candyman. Linda made it all the way to week eight, but lost out in their save me skate to actress Zaraah Abrahams.

Emmerdale star Roxanne Pallet was also partnered with Dan! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Roxanne Pallet

Roxanne Pallet was a contestant in series four, which aired in 2009. She signed up to the show a year after leaving her Emmerdale role as Jo Sugden. Like other Emmerdale actresses before her, Roxanne’s professional partner was Daniel Whiston. The pair finished in sixth place after losing out to Blue Peter presenter Zoe Salmon in the save me skate. Despite her best efforts, the judges unanimously voted to send Roxanne home.

Vanessa and Emmerdale star Joe had a promising start on Dancing on Ice, but COVID struck (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Joe-Warren Plant

Joe-Warren Plant, aka Emmerdale’s Jacob Gallagher, had his journey on Dancing On Ice cursed by Covid. The actor was part of the class of 2021, who competed in the middle of the global pandemic.

Joe-Warren and his pro partner Vanessa Bauer made it to week four and topped the leaderboard twice. But sadly that’s where their journey ended. The pair both had positive Covid tests and were forced to withdraw from the competition. Joe-Warren and Vanessa were the fourth couple who had to pull out after Rufus Hound, Denise Van Outen and Billie Shepherd. The 13th series was won by radio presenter Sonny Jay.

The Beetlejuice-inspired routine was certainly Roxy Shahidi’s show highlight (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Roxy Shahidi

Roxy Shahidi is the most recent Emmerdale actor to step onto the ice. The actress, who plays Leyla Cavanagh, took part in the 16th series, airing in 2024. She skated alongside French ice dancer Sylvain Longchambon. Their most memorable moment was a Beetlejuice-themed routine in Movie Week. Despite sustaining an injury, Roxy made it through to Week Five when she was eliminated in a shock double exit. Roxy and Sylvain were kicked off the show after coming in bottom of the judges and public votes.

Read more: All the Emmerdale stars who’ve appeared on Strictly Come Dancing

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside

2nd October 2024
Recognise Detective Foy in Emmerdale? Here’s where you know Robert Cavanah from including previous Dales stint

Robert Cavanah is currently playing DS Foy in Emmerdale – he’s the one with the task of getting to the bottom of what happened to Tom King.

Tom, of course, has managed to survive Belle whacking him in the back with an axe.

The Dingles have closed ranks and are claiming Belle was with Charity, and now poor DS Foy is trying to work out exactly what happened, when.

But in the meantime, the Emmerdale viewers are busy trying to work out where they have seen DS Foy – or actually his actually alter ego, Robert Cavanah – before.

So we did some of our own investigation and here’s what we discovered.

Robert Cavanah in The Royal with Michelle Hardwick who now plays Vanessa Woodfield in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

The Royal

Robert is a familiar face to fans of medical drama The Royal. He played hospital secretary Adam Carnegie and appeared in 35 episodes, across seasons 5-7, from 2006 until 2009.

Robert starred alongside Michelle Hardwick – who plays Vanessa Woodfield in Emmerdale.

But he was a familiar face long before that, having appeared in just about every British television show you can name!

In the early days of his career, Robert appeared in Doctor Finlay, and Highlander. He’s been in Cracker, Hamish MacBeth and Insiders, and played Heathcliff in a TV adaptation of Wuthering Heights, among many others!

Tommy Grant in EastEnders

In 2004, Robert landed the role of Tommy Grant in EastEnders. He was an older boyfriend of Vicki Fowler.

Though Tommy was Vicki’s boyfriend, he fancied her stepmum, Chrissie Watts. She knew he had the hots for him so she tricked him into thinking she felt the same.

She arranged to meet him in the loos at The Queen Vic (how romantic!) and when he stripped off, she nicked his clothes and forced him to run through the market in his birthday suit!

Vicki’s dad, Den, though took more traditional revenge. He pinned Tommy to the table in the club, and told him never to come back to Albert Square. Not surprisingly, Tommy scarpered!

First stint in Emmerdale: Val Pollard’s big mistake

Cast your minds back to 2014 when Val Pollard admitted to a holiday fling. Not only did her indiscretion ruin her marriage to Eric, she also contracted HIV.

She found out she could have the virus after being contacted by her holiday romance – Ian Chamberlain. Ian was played by Robert Cavanah!

He came to the village once to tell Val that there was a possibility he could have passed on HIV.

Then a few months later he returned, wanting to know Val’s results. She lied and told him she was all clear.

Robert played Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights in 1998 (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

What else has Robert Cavanah been in?

Since his first appearance in Emmerdale, Robert’s been busy! He’s had roles in Waterloo Road, Silent Witness, Doctors, Casualty, Outlander, The Crown, and Midsomer Murders, among many more!

He’s also been on stage including at the RSC and the National Theatre.

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on TwitterÂ @emmerdaleinside

1st October 2024
Dale Meeks: From Byker Grove to Simon in Emmerdale and his tragic death aged 48

Dale Meeks played fishmonger Simon Meredith in Emmerdale back in the mid-noughties.

Simon was engaged to Nicola Blackstock for a while and together with his mum, Lesley (played by former Coronation Street star Sherrie Hewson) made his mark on the village.

Actor Dale Meeks was already known to telly viewers when he took on the role as he’d starred in children’s show Byker Grove.

And after Emmerdale he went on to have more success, in theatre and on television.

But sadly, Dale tragically died, aged just 48, in April last year. Here’s his story.

Dale Weeks played Simon Meredith in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Dale’s early days

Dale’s career began when he was just a teenager, when he landed the role of Greg in Byker Grove. Greg was the leader of a rival youth club, called Denton Burn.

Dale stayed at Byker Grove for two years and then carried on acting. He had roles in Spender, The Bill, and Grease Monkeys, among many others.

In 2003 he joined Emmerdale as fishmonger Simon.

Before Dale got the part of Simon he’d considered giving up acting. He was fed up with failed auditions and the expense of travelling from his hometown of Newcastle to London. Fortunately he got the job!

Simon the fishmonger

Simon arrived in Emmerdale, accidentally! Nicola had asked Emily Kirk to set her up with fishmonger Kenny, but Emily got muddled and set Nicola up with Simon instead!

The pair hit it off and eventually got engaged. But money troubles, the presence of Simon’s meddling mum Lesley, and Nicola’s attraction to lodger Ivan (played by Coronation Street star Daniel Brocklebank) all caused problems.

Eventually, they called off their engagement, and Ivan and Simon went travelling in Costa Rica.

Mark Charnock and Dale Meeks starred as the Blues Brothers in Celebrity Stars in Their Eyes (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Life after Emmerdale

After leaving the show, Dale continued acting with many roles on television including in The Dumping Ground, Being Human, and Casualty. And in 2023 he starred in The Hunt for Raoul Moat.

While he was still at Emmerdale, Dale’s singing skills won him Celebrity Stars in their Eyes when he and co-star Mark Charnock, AKA Marlon Dingle, teamed up to become the Blues Brothers.

And Dale used his musical talents on stage, playing Amos Hart in the touring production of Chicago, and appearing in the West End in Love Never Dies.

Dale’s tragic death

In April 2023, Dale’s family announced he had passed away from heart failure.

Former Emmerdale co-stars including Nick Miles (AKA Jimmy King) and Verity Rushworth, who played Donna Windsor, paid tribute to their friend online. Ant and Dec also shared their sadness at Dale’s death.

My thoughts and prayers are with Daleâ€™s friends and family at such a horrendous time. I had the privilege of working with this gorgeous, lovely, hilarious, kind Man. What a ray of sunshine he was. The laughs were constant and he will be so so missed. Big kiss Dale xxx #dalemeeks pic.twitter.com/7hYIkZYLZX

â€” Verity Rushworth (@VerityRushworth) April 24, 2023

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!

25th September 2024
Jenna Coleman: from Emmerdale star to television queen!

Jenna Coleman is a shining light of British television, having starred in hugely popular shows including Doctor Who and Victoria.

But she started her acting career in Emmerdale playing vicar Ashley Thomas’s troublesome niece, Jasmine. Jasmine has recently returned to Classic Emmerdale wanting to stay for good.

But actress Jenna ended up staying for four years before moving on to bigger things. Here’s everything we know about Jenna.

Jenna starred as Ember Manning in The Jetty (Credit: BBC)

Jenna’s early years

Jenna was born in Blackpool, with excellent soapy credentials – apparently her grandmother suggested the name Jenna after the character Jenna Wade in Dallas!

Jenna-Louise, as she was known back then, took part in all sorts of drama productions growing up, including a professional production of Summer Holiday at Blackpool Opera House.

Jenna was planning to go to York University to study English, but she changed her plans, because she’d been offered the part of Jasmine in Emmerdale.

Jenna arrived in the village in 2005 as Jasmine (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Jasmine in Emmerdale

Jasmine was the troubled and troublesome niece of Ashley Thomas. She stayed with Ashley and Laurel for a short while, then after she was expelled from boarding school, she returned to the village for good.

Things were never boring with Jasmine around! She and Debbie Dingle fell in love. But Cain Dingle also seduced teenaged Jasmine – urgh – and she got pregnant (though she had a termination).

Jasmine’s journalism career

When she left school, Jasmine was determined to become a journalist and started investigating Tom King’s murder. She didn’t find the killer – who was Tom’s son, Carl – but she did help suspect Jamie Hope clear his name.

Later Jasmine started looking into local crime family the Macfarlanes. She got to know a police officer Shayne Doyle, who was helping her. She even started a romance with Shane. But he was not a good person. Turned out he was in cahoots with the Macfarlanes. When Jasmine started asking too many awkward questions, he attacked her. She fought back and accidentally killed the crooked cop!

With the help of Eli and Debbie, Jasmine got rid of the body. But in the end, Jasmine admitted what she’d done and she went to prison.

After Emmerdale

Jenna joined Waterloo Road for a short while in 2009, playing ‘hard girl’ Lindsay James.

But it wasn’t a straightforward journey after that. Instead, Jenna went six months without acting work. She moved to Hollywood and though she won a small role in Captain America: The First Avenger, things were tricky.

Big break!

After a fair amount of disappointment, Jenna was asked to return to the UK to join the cast of Titanic, a four-part drama written by Downton Abbey’s Julian Fellowes.

And after that, the jobs kept coming! Jenna starred in the adaptation of PD James’ story Death Comes to Pemberley, among others.

Jenna became a household name when she played Clara in Doctor Who (Credit: BBC)

Doctor Who!

In 2012 it was confirmed that Jenna was to play Clara Oswald, the companion of the Eleventh Doctor, Matt Smith. She was very popular with Doctor Who fans, and went on to be the companion when Peter Capaldi took on the role.

Victoria, which starred Jenna as the young queen, ran for three series (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Jenna as Queen!

After Doctor Who, Jenna played the young Queen Victoria in the historical drama Victoria. The show ran for three series. Since then Jenna’s been in shows including The Cry, The Serpent, Wilderness and Sandman. Most recently she starred in detective drama The Jetty.

She’s also appeared on stage in the West End.

Jenna’s personal life

Jenna was in a relationship with Game of Thrones star Richard Madden for several years and then dated Tom Hughes, her Victoria co-star. In 2020, she met her current partner Jamie Childs, and this summer Jenna announced she is pregnant with their first baby.

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!

19th September 2024
Here’s where Gillian Kearney is now as Emma Barton ‘returns’ to soap

Monday’s episode of Emmerdale (Monday, September 9) saw the ‘return’ of Emma Barton in the form of an hallucination.

Moira Dingle, who has been struggling of late, found herself having a showdown in the barn with Ruby â€“ reminiscent of the showdown she had with Emma years back.

Ruby’s words started to blur and Moira hallucinated, imagining that Emma was there with her instead of Ruby.

Actress Gillian Kearney exited the role of Emma Barton back in 2017 after nearly three years on screen. But what has she been up to since?

Before Emmerdale

Prior to landing the role of Emma Barton in the ITV soap, Gillian was known to soap fans for playing Debbie McGrath in Brookside, the girlfriend of Damon Grant.

The star-crossed lovers were popular with viewers, which resulted in them being given their own spin off show â€“ Damon and Debbie.

She also had major roles in the likes of Shameless and The Forsyte Saga before landing a permanent role as staff nurse Jessica Harrison in Casualty.

Her storylines as Jessica included an affair with a colleague and the heartbreaking death of her 8 month old son.

Gillian’s first scenes Emma Barton in Emmerdale aired in early 2015.

Emma was a creepy killer (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock (6897790z))

Who was Emma Barton?

Emma was the estranged wife of James Barton and mum to Pete, Ross and Finn.

She was tracked down by her son Finn, years after she’d abandoned her family. Throughout her time in the ‘Dales, she continued to have a rocky relationship with her family.

One particular storyline saw the soap mirror Stephen King’s Misery. With James housebound due to a broken leg, he was at Emma’s mercy.

One scene saw Emma helping James back into bed before getting changed into a wedding dress. She then went outside to slaughter a chicken â€“ as you do.

James did eventually manage to escape the unhinged nurse, but he didn’t get far and was pushed from a bridge to his death by Emma. Lovely…

Emma also accidentally killed her son Finn. After taking Adam’s gun, she fired a random shot which just so happened to catch Finn. She was eventually killed at the end of 2017 as part of a whodunnit storyline. It was eventually revealed that Moira was the guilty party.

Gillian was nominated for Best Serial Drama Performance at the National Television Awards in 2017 and 2018 for her portrayal of Emma Barton.

Moira killed Emma (Credit: Photo by ITV/Shutterstock (8965291cz))

Where is Gillian Kearney now?

After leaving the soap, Gillian swapped acting for directing. She directed two episodes of Channel 5 prison drama Clink in 2019. This was followed up by a go in the chair for an episode of BBC One series Moving On.

However, she’s still dipping her toes into the acting world and earlier this year Gillian was seen in an episode of ITV drama Vera, where she played Deborah McSwain.

Read more: Tom and Amelia might not be the worst Emmerdale couple everâ€¦

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Plus, visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers!

9th September 2024
The real-life love story of Bradley Johnson as the Vinny Dingle actor prepares to become a first-time dad

Emmerdale star Bradley Johnson is having a good old time of it at the moment as his on-screen alter ego Vinny Dingle finally takes the next step with new girlfriend Gabby Thomas.

And off-screen, life is equally good for Bradley and his girlfriend, Sammie. They are expecting their first child together and he or she will be here in December of this year. Aw!

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Emmerdale star Bradley Johnson and girlfriend Sammie Johnstone

Bradley and Sammie have been together for three years. He proposed to Sammie in October 2023 in Rome and they announced their engagement on social media.

Alongside a picture of them posing in front of the Colosseum, Bradley captioned the shot: “When in Rome…” with an engagement ring emoji. Sammie’s new sparkler could be seen on display in the photo.

His Emmerdale co-stars were quick to send their congratulations, with Natalie Ann Jamieson (Amy) among the first to comment: Congratulations!!! Can’t believe she said yes!? hahaha. Lots of love you beautiful pair,” she wrote.

Dean Andrews (Will Taylor) added: “Congrats you two lovebirds.”

“Oh my god!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Bradders!!!! Congratulations!!!!!!!! So happy for you mate,” screamed Amy Walsh aka Tracy Robinson.

On-screen mum, Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle shared: “BEST NEWS EVER!!! Congratulations.”

Babymooning in Italy (Credit: Instagram/bradleyjakehonson)

Bradley Johnson makes baby announcement

In June 2024, Bradley revealed the really exciting news that he’s going to become a first-time dad as his fiancÃ©e is pregnant.

Bradley shared the update via his social media account using a picture of a cakeÂ with the message ‘baby coming December 2024’ iced upon it.

As well as the cake we were treated to some Polaroids of their pregnancy journey. One showed Sammie’s baby-bearing belly and pics of them holding scan photos.

In the caption below the post, Bradley wrote simply: ‘Mum and Dad,’ signing off with a love heart emoji. Once again on-screen mum Lisa Riley led the charge of comments: “LOVE YOU BOTH SO SO SO SO MUCH at long long last I can tell everyone-you are both going to be the absolute BEST!!! YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! so excited!!!! I’ve said congratulations to you both over a hundred times ,” she wrote. Sounds like she’s excited, doesn’t it?

The couple are now babymooning in Italy as they await their new arrival. Bradley has shared pictures of him and Sammie with her gorgeous baby bump on display.

Has Bradley Johnson ever dated Emmerdale co-star Isobel Steele?

Vinny was happily married to Liv Flaherty in Emmerdale before her death on-screen and rumours of a romance between Bradley and Liv actress Isobel Steele followed them around.

Speaking toÂ Metro.co.uk back in 2021, Isobel explained why they were constantly presented as a couple off-screen. “Brad is wonderful and such a good friend of mine. We are very similar and work really well together when we have scenes just us two.

“I can see why people jumped to conclusions, seeing two characters spending time together on and off-screen.

“For the record me and Brad are not in a relationship. We are just very good friends who enjoy each other’s company out of work as well as in work.”

Vinny Dingle in Emmerdale

After Liv’s death in 2022, Vinny has failed to get back on the horse so to speak – a horse he’d actually never experienced before, if you catch our drift.

He and Gabby were pushed together when Mandy and Paddy meddled, but although she didn’t want anything more than friends at first she soon began to see him in a new light. They shared a date, had a kiss and it looked like things were on, until she commented she knew he was a virgin.

Vinny freaked out, said it was all a big mistake and then they were off again. But then they decided to get back on and move to the next level. Next week sees them passionately kiss in the Woolpack marking the first public outing of their romance. But will it last?

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!

15th August 2024
Emmerdale star James Chase on why Tom and Belle storyline canâ€™t end yet

Emmerdale star James Chase has revealed why Tom King and Belle Dingle‘s storyline cannot end yet, despite fans pleading for the abusive marriage to come to a close.

Tom has been manipulating and controlling Belle ever since they tied the knot. However, Belle has started to recognise she’s being abused and has split up with Tom.

It’s previously been confirmed that Belle and Tom’s storyline will continue for a while, but it’s still to be revealed how it will come to an end.

Tom has continued to control and abuse Belle (Credit: ITV)

Tom and Belle’s split

Following their disastrous weekend away in Wales, Belle and Tom split up. Belle finally realised she was being mistreated and was even seen researching whether she’d been a victim of abuse.

Tom has moved out of their home, leaving Belle there with Piper. However, Belle has since opted to take a trip away in a bid to have some time to herself.

When she returns, Tom is certain he and Belle will get back together. From surprise gifts to manipulating her, he sets out to win her back.

Will Tom finally get his comeuppance? (Credit: ITV)

Actor James Chase says Belle ‘needs justice’

James Chase, who portrays Tom in Emmerdale, has revealed that Belle and Tom’s storyline can’t end yet because there “needs to be more done”.

The actor revealed that he presumed Tom and Belle’s trip to Wales would spark the end of the story, but he teased there’s more to come for the estranged couple.

He continued to Digital Spy: “From this point, their relationship does change â€“ for the better for her, of course. There’s still more to be told. I agree that obviously Tom needs to be found guilty for this and Belle needs some sort of justice.”

James added: “She can’t just break up with him and get away from him â€“ there needs to be more done, because otherwise who’s to say he wouldn’t just do this to his next partner?”

Read more:Â 5 Reasons why Mandy and Paddyâ€™s marriage is already doomed

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook pageÂ @emmerdaleinsiderÂ for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!

14th August 2024
Oliver Farnworth: The Emmerdale newcomerâ€™s previous soap roles and famous EastEnders star girlfriend

Oliver Farnworth plays the role of newcomer John Sugden in Emmerdale. He’s described as a complex individual with a military background.

John is the long-lost son of Emmerdale icon, Jack Sugden. He’s half-brother to Victoria, Robert and Andy, which also makes him Sarah’s uncle.

Viewers first meet John on the side of the road getting jiggy with Aaron. But they only find out who he really is the following night at the funeral of his late mother, Barbara, who had a fling with Jack in the 1980s. Victoria is also there by chance, and is stunned to discover she’s got a sibling she never knew about.

Vic is desperate to get to know her big brother, but John isn’t the easiest of people to get along with.

“He is very much a loan wolf,” Oliver has said of John. “I think over the years, he’s really put walls up and not let anyone in. He doesn’t like people getting close to him. He’s very self-sufficient â€“ he lives off grid in his van. Doesn’t need anyone, doesn’t need family.”

John is also openly gay, and there have been rumours of a possible future romance between him and Aaron Dingle. Watch this space!

Andy was locked in a basement by villainous Pat Phelan in Coronation Street (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Who did Oliver Farnworth play in Hollyoaks and Coronation Street?

Soap fans will probably recognise Oliver for his previous roles in Hollyoaks and Coronation Street.

Oliver made his TV debut on Hollyoaks, playing creepy predator Will Hackett between September 2006 and May 2007.

Will was a former child prodigy who’d attended Oxford university, but he also harboured a sinister side. He manipulated his flat mates and terrorised girlfriend Zoe Carpenter by stalking her. Will’s crimes were eventually uncovered and he was sectioned under the mental health act.

Oliver also had a three-year stint on Coronation as Andy Carver â€“ a role that made him a household name.

Andy was first introduced as Gavin Rodwell, the ‘long-lost son’ of Michael Rodwell. It was later revealed Andy was masquerading as Gavin, but he and Michael’s wife Gail Platt continued to conceal the truth. Michael was heartbroken to discover Andy had been conning him, but he eventually forgave him.

Andy’s downfall came when he wound up getting involved with Pat Phelan. The serial killer held Andy hostage in a basement for months before finishing him off with a single bullet. His brutal murder has gone down as one of Corrie’s most explosive exits.

Victoria will get a shock in Emmerdale when she meets John (Credit: ITV)

What else has Oliver been in?

Oliver’s acting CV includes a number of popular ITV dramas.

He appeared in three episodes of 1960s medical series The Royal, and also episodes of Mr Selfridge and Endeavour.

Oliver’s theatre credits include The London Plays, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, as well as Shakespeare productions, Midsummer

Nightâ€™s Dream and The Merchant of Venice.

In April 2010 he trod the boards of the West End in Holding the Man at the Trafalgar Studios.

Oliver is happily settled with Sam Womack (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Emmerdale newcomer Oliver Farnworth has a famous soapstar girlfriend

Oliver has been in a relationship with former EastEnders star Samantha Womack since 2021.

The couple met in 2019 when they starred opposite one another in the stage adaptation of The Girl On The Train, and currently live together in Spain.

Samantha is of course known to millions for her role as Walford’s Ronnie Mitchell. She was previously married to actor Mark Womack, who played Emmerdale villain DI Mark Malone. It’s a small world in soap!

The blended family get on like a dream. Oliver is close to Samantha and Mark’s two grown up children, Benjamin and Lily. The trio enjoy cooking together in their Spanish kitchen. Oliver is also good friends with Mark, who was on-hand to offer his support when he landed his role in Emmerdale.

Oliver told The Mirror: “Mark told me it (Emmerdale) was a great job. He was full of praise for the place, saying it was such a gorgeous place to work. And it is great!”

Read more: Spoilers: John Sugden arrives in Emmerdale and he could be Victoria’s half brother

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

7th August 2024