Emmerdale aired tragic scenes this week when Will Taylor died after suffering a heart attack, but fans don’t believe he is really dead.
Will has been working with financial advisor Peter on a plot to bring Kim Tate down. However, recent scenes saw Will have second thoughts about the plan as he realised he was still in love with Kim.
After Kim discovered the truth, Will pleaded with her – a scene that ended with him clutching his chest. But is there more to it? Fans think so.
Will had second thoughts about double crossing Kim (Credit: ITV)
Will has a heart attack in Emmerdale
Recent weeks have seen Will hell-bent on making Kim’s life a misery as he teamed up with her financial advisor Peter to get revenge on Kim. Unbeknown to Will, Peter was also working with Joe Tate.
Although Will had changed his mind about the revenge plot, he couldn’t get out of it that easily and Joe revealed all to Kim.
However, Joe lied to Kim, telling her that Will had directly approached her son Jamie Tate for help with getting revenge. Joe also made out that he and Peter were only ever messing with Will, to see how far he’d go. Joe insisted that he was telling Kim the truth now because he had realised how important family was.
Kim asked for some time alone with her husband. Will attempted to give his version of events before suddenly collapsing holding his chest.
Kim watched on suspiciously, believing that he was faking it for sympathy. It was only when Joe returned that Kim sprung into action and attempted to help Will. But it was too late and when emergency services arrived, they pronounced him dead.
Fans believe Will is still alive (Credit: ITV)
Will Taylor fan theory
Despite the moment that medics pronounced Will dead being shown on screen, fans have predicted that he is still alive and is faking his own death.
“I’d wondered if Kim and Will are faking his death to take down Joe. Seems far fetched… however crazier things have happened,” one fan wrote on X. While another agreed, adding: “Will Taylor not dead and he faking his death again.”
A third viewer went into more detail, writing: “Mmm 2 questions, why didn’t the paramedics use the defibrillator and I thought paramedics weren’t allowed to stop until told to do so by a doctor. I might be wrong but then they might not be paramedics, Will might not be dead & the whole thing is a plot to blackmail Kim?”
A fourth fan added: “Interesting that Kim didn’t put much of an effort with the chest compressions, no mouth to mouth nor did we see the ambulance crew shock Will. Billy didn’t look too surprised either. There could be a twist to this storyline?”
Another fan wrote: “Said all along Will won’t be dead. Him , Joe and Jamie in a plot together to bring Kim down. Joe didn’t phone ambulance, paramedics were less than useless, nor did they declare death properly. Very fishy !” while a sixth viewer said: “Don’t think he dead. All part of joe’s plan with Peter.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
April Windsor disappeared from her home on Christmas Day in Emmerdale and a new fan theory has suggested Anthony Fox could be responsible.
It has been a difficult time for April of late, after discovering the truth about how her mother Donna Windsor died. Her behaviour has worsened and she has been bunking off school and drinking alcohol.
Her dad Marlon has struggled to cope and prior to his daughter going missing, he snapped at her, telling her he wished she’d just fade into the background.
So has April simply run away, or is there something more sinister going on?
April went off the rails (Credit: ITV)
April goes missing
On Christmas Day morning, Marlon Dingle went to wake his young daughter only to discover that she wasn’t there. April was later seen waiting for a mystery person before climbing into the back of a car.
It’s been a difficult few weeks for the teenager. At the start of the month, she was kidnapped by Ross Barton‘s enemy Jade. After rescuing April, Ross then told her the devastating truth about Donna’s death.
April’s dad Marlon was furious at Ross for sharing this information, and in return April was furious with Marlon for keeping it from her.
Emmerdale has confirmed that the story will run weeks, with show producer Laura Shaw saying: “In the coming weeks, as the search for April intensifies, we explore the emotional turmoil a family faces when a young person goes missing. We are so grateful to the charity Missing People for their invaluable help and support with this storyline.”
But is April missing out of choice or has someone taken her?
Does Anthony have something to do with April’s disappearance? (Credit: ITV)
With this in mind, a new theory has predicted that Anthony is to blame for teen April’s disappearance.
“Ruby’s dad the creepiest person, was that his car picking up April?” asked one viewer on X. “Anthony has got April! #Emmerdale,” another fan agreed.Â
Over on Facebook, a third fan said: “I’m wondering if April accepted a lift from a stranger or did she know the person, I thought it looked like Ruby’s dad from behind.”
A fourth fan agreed, writing: “Yeah it deffo looked like Ruby dad…”, while a fifth said: “Oh I do hope it wasn’t Ruby’s dad for obvious reasons.”
“Why do I have a feeling Ruby’s dad is involved in April disappearance”, said another viewer.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
It’s been another action-packed year in Emmerdale, with several standout moments and performances from the brilliant cast, but what were the best storylines of 2024?
Major storylines have included Belle Dingle’s domestic abuse, Moira’s brain tumour diagnosis, Kim Tate’s return to the top and the arrival of a brand new Sugden – John. We said a sad goodbye to Emmerdale legend Zak Dingle, and hello again to village bad boy Ross Barton. 2024 has also seen the arrival of Caleb’s feisty missus, Ruby, who’s now a firm favourite amongst the fans.
So as we get ready to see what 2025 has in store, let’s round up our top picks from the past 12 months…
This year has been one Belle would rather forget (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: Belle’s hell at the hands of Tom
The standout storyline of 2024 has to be Belle’s abuse at the hands evil Tom King. It’s been a difficult journey to follow, but Emmerdale have worked hard to tackle a subject that sadly occurs all too often in real life.
Tom’s true nature was revealed this year as he subjected Belle to a wicked campaign of physical and mental torture, which pushed her to the very brink.
In September, the soap aired a special episode where a broken Belle was haunted by her imagined futures. These disturbing nightmares gave Belle the courage she needed to report her ex to the police. But it was another two months before Tom was finally arrested and charged with abuse.
At last, justice has been served, Tom is behind bars and Belle has been reunited with her beloved Piper. Finally she can start to slowly rebuild the life that Tom shattered.
We want to take this moment to applaud actors Eden Taylor-Draper and James Chase, whose performances this past year have been nothing short of spectacular.
Mack got stabbed in the stomach by Charity (Credit: ITV)
Charity stabbing Mack
Charity began the year in a very dark place. She was suffering from PTSD and wracked with guilt over accidentally killing gangster Damon ‘Harry’ Harris while trying to protect her husband Mackenzie.
Haunted by visions of the man whose life she had taken and gripped by insomnia and night terrors, Charity’s mental health began to spiral out of control. She was also triggered by any loud noises, as it reminded her of the sound of the gunshot that fateful day.
Events reached a terrifying climax on February 22 when Mack walked in to find his wife having a night terror. Believing he was Harry, Charity grabbed a knife to protect herself and plunged it into Mack’s stomach.
Mack would have used up the last of nine lives if it wasn’t for Moira popping by and finding him lying on the floor. He was rushed to hospital and made a full recovery, while Charity found herself under arrest. She was later let off and attended therapy to get herself better.
Chas has faced her darkest fears (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: Chas’s cancer battle
Chas Dingle has faced some tough battles in her time, but non more so than her one against cancer.
The Woolpack manager’s world was turned upside down after her lover Liam alerted her to a lump in a breast. Just days later, Chas’s worst fears were confirmed when doctors revealed she had triple negative breast cancer – the same type her late mum Faith had died of.
The discovery was a big turning point for Chas, who had previously been disowned by the Dingles after her affair with Al Chapman. After learning their family member was in crisis, they all rallied round and supported Chas.
Another crushing blow came when further tests revealed Chas was carrying the faulty BRCA2 gene. She urged the rest of her family to get checked out, and Aaron discovered he also carried BRCA2. Chas was on hand to support her son, while she made the brave decision to undergo a double mastectomy.
The treatment worked and Chas is now in remission. But while it’s still in debate whether Chas has done enough to be redeemed, we hope 2025 is a happier, and healthier, one for her.
Fans were shocked to discover Ella is a murderer (Credit: ITV)
Ella’s killer secret
One of the darkest twists of 2024 was the revelation that Ella Forster was a child killer.
Ella was introduced in January when she landed a job at Brook Cottage Surgery and embarked on a romance with Dr Liam Cavanagh. As a newcomer to the Dales, not much was known about the character’s backstory. But it became clear Ella was hiding a secret she didn’t want anyone to find out.
As speculation mounted, nothing could prepare Liam for the discovery that his girlfriend was actually a murderer.
It turned out Ella had taken the life of her childhood best friend Joanne in a jealous rage. The crime had occurred on the day of Ella’s (who was known as Ruth back then) 11th birthday. Ella was imprisoned for years and had assumed a new identity after being released. The disturbing revelation caused Ella’s relationship with Liam to collapse and made her the village outcast.
Ella later found out she was expecting Liam’s baby, but tragedy struck when she suffered a miscarriage. With Liam now loved up with Chas, it’s rumoured Ella will be departing next spring. But how will she bow out?
John Sugden caused a stir when he came to the village (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: The arrival of John Sugden
The announcement of a new Sugden coming to Emmerdale caused great excitement. Finally it was a chance to put the soap’s famous family back on the map, and actually give Victoria a decent storyline.
Vic first discovered she and John were related on the day of his mum’s funeral, when Eric Pollard let the cat of the bag. She was buzzing to meet her late dad’s long-lost son, but John couldn’t have really cared less. He also had zero interest in getting to know the rest of Emmerdale’s residents and made an enemy of Mackenzie Boyd.
However, there was one person who John did connect with, and that was Aaron Dingle. The pair embarked on a steamy affair which was made more interesting by the fact John is the half-brother of Aaron’s ex Robert. John and Aaron have just confessed their love for one another. But it all feels a little too safe for our liking. We’d love it for Robert to come home and compete with his sibling for Aaron’s affections.
And while we’re at it we’re hoping to learn more about John’s backstory. That Aidan Moore mystery was a right anti-climax, although we’re not convinced John was telling the truth. Will we ever find out what he’s hiding?
Madame Diamante Dales gave us some great LOL moments (Credit: ITV)
Mandy’s adventures as Madame Diamante Dales
Mandy can always be relied on for bringing the laughs and we loved her short-lived career as Madame Diamante Dales!
Everything was going great until Bear overheard Miss DD on the phone to one of her clients and spilled the beans to Paddy. Mandy’s saucy side hustle almost cost her her man, but Paddy forgave all the lies and still married her.
Kim got her own back on two-timing Will (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: Kim’s revenge on cheating Will
2024 marked the return of Queen Kim, who has shown once again she’s not a woman to be trifled with.
We feared Kim had gone soft on us after she fell victim to Will’s manipulative ex-wife Rose. The scheming madame went as far as forcing Kim out of her beloved Home Farm, and she just let it happen. Even when it transpired Rose had been working with Ruby to destroy her, all Kim did was tell her to do one. But when Kim discovered Will and Rose had slept together it was payback time!
The lady of the manor posed as a mystery blackmailer and threatened to expose Will unless he paid up. As Will dug himself into a deeper financial hole – Kim was doing some digging of her own. She faked a kidnap, then lured Will to the woods, where he discovered a creepy mannequin with Kim’s face on it.
Next Kim forced Will to dig up a coffin she’d buried, before she pushed him in the grave and unveiled herself as his tormentor! It was about as classic Kim as you could get.
She’s since taken Will back, but he’s now secretly planning to get his own back. Hasn’t he forgotten who he’s dealing with?!
Moira underwent life-saving brain surgery (Credit: ITV)
Moira’s brain tumour
What’s wrong with Moira? That was the question on every viewer’s lips as they watched the normally friendly farmer undergo a sudden personality transplant.
Moira’s volatile behaviour, aggressive outbursts and memory lapses were a cause of concern to her loved ones. Cain feared his wife had succumbed to her previous alcohol addiction, but was unaware she had started to experience seizures.
Events came to a head when Moira started experiencing visions of her late nemesis Emma Barton. She threatened Ruby with a shotgun, and caused a near-fatal explosion at Butlers Farm. After seeing Moira suffer a seizure in front of his eyes, Cain forced her to get medical help.
Subsequent tests discovered a mass on Moira’s brain, and she was told she had a meningioma – a type of non cancerous tumour. In November, Emmerdale aired a special episode which followed Moira’s journey as she underwent surgery to have her tumour removed. In a surprising, emotional twist, Moira was reunited with her late daughter Holly during a dream sequence.
The Dingles gathered to say farewell to their beloved patriarch Zak (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: Zak’s death
We all knew this sad day was coming after the announcement of actor Steve Halliwell’s death in December 2023. And credit to the writers, they gave Zak a memorable and poignant farewell that was befitting of his legendary status.
As per his final wishes, Zak had requested to be buried in Dingle land within 48 hours of his passing. Cain and Sam journeyed to Scotland to bring their dad’s body home and took Zak’s coffin to the Woolie for one last pint with the locals. Afterwards, Zak was drummed up the road to his final resting place, as his family gathered around the graveside.
Many of the Dingles were present for Zak’s send-off, although there were a few notable absences. Yes, Debbie Dingle, we’re talking about you.
Tina’s rowdy arrival certainly brought the drama, but we were all about the quieter, more tender moments. Like new head of the clan Cain getting too choked up to deliver his speech. And Belle requesting Zak be buried with Lisa’s ashes, so her parents would be together forever. Aww.
They’ll never be another Zak Dingle, but we were lucky to have him.
Ross is back and better than ever (Credit: ITV)
The return of Ross Barton
The Barton bad boy has been top of our dream comeback list for a while, so you can imagine our delight when we learnt it was actually happening. During his first stint in the Dales, Ross was often in the thick of the action, and this time looks set to be no different.
Ross was unveiled as Billy Fletcher’s surprise opponent, in the underground boxing match organised by ruthless promotor Jade. Since then he’s found himself caught up in other dangerous situations.
Ross made a deal with Kim Tate that nearly resulted in him killing Will, he let a gun off in son Moses’s presence, and put April’s safety at risk by trying to double-cross Jade. He’s also made an enemy of Mackenzie – perhaps he and John should compare notes.
And then there’s the women. Ross never goes hungry for long – he’s already locked lips with Charity and enjoyed a romp with newcomer Steph. Who’s next?!
Cain and Ruby did a bad, bad thing (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale 2024 best storylines: Cain and Ruby’s betrayal
Cain’s done a lot of terrible things in his time, but cheating with your brother’s wife while your own missus is undergoing life-saving brain surgery must be a new low.
The pair’s forbidden tryst was one of those shocking OMG moments that no one saw coming and it’s left fans absolutely fuming. Yes, Cain was struggling with his fear of losing Moira. But why on earth did he think having sex with Ruby was going to make the situation any easier?
Unable to cope with his guilt, Cain is now spiralling out of control. But what will happen if his conscience gets the better of him and he decides to ‘fess up to Moira? We’re not sure their marriage could survive another betrayal, especially one on this scale. And god only knows what Caleb would do if he found out.
This ticking time bomb could cause some serious damage.
Ruby is a big favourite with the fans (Credit: ITV)
The rise of Ruby
Emmerdale has suddenly turned into the Ruby Fox-Miligan show, and we’re not mad about it.
The ballsy blonde has been in the soap less than 12 months and has already established herself as one of its leading ladies. She’s also shown she’s not someone to reckon with. So far Ruby has publicly outed Caleb’s affair with Tracy (which she later forgave him for) and orchestrated a plot to destroy Kim Tate. But as well as bringing the drama, Ruby has been busy building herself a life in Emmerdale. She’s made friends and even won over the Dingles.
We’re now learning more about Ruby’s backstory. Her wealthy mother Helen made a brief appearance as viewers watched Caleb blackmail the dying woman to sign over her fortune to her. And now Ruby’s daughter Steph and estranged dad Anthony are on the scene. Ruby has been desperate to reconnect with Steph, but it has been revealed Anthony abused Ruby as a child and could be Steph’s real father.
Recent shock revelations point to 2025 being another huge year for Ruby. Bring it on!
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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 @emmerdaleinsider
2024 has seen the tragic deaths of six characters in Emmerdale. While some of these unlucky souls had only been in the soap a short while, others were long-standing residents of the village.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the Dales as the residents recently gathered for the funeral of Dingle patriarch Zak. And we’re still getting over the shock (and horror) of discovering the young and vivacious Rebecca White has slipped off the mortal coil.
Here’s a full list of everyone we’ve said a final goodbye to this year.
Ethan suffered a fatal brain aneurysm (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale deaths in 2024: Ethan Anderson
Emmerdale viewers tuning in on May 28, 2024 got an unexpected shock when Ethan Anderson suddenly dropped down dead. The vicar’s son’s untimely passing had not been announced prior to transmission, but looking back the clues were all there.
Weeks earlier, Ethan had foolishly got behind the wheel of a car while over the limit. Enroute, he lost control of the vehicle and crashed, causing his passenger Nicky Miligan serious injuries. Ethan then dragged Nicky out of the car and fled the scene, while his friend was left in a coma.
When Nicky’s mum Ruby discovered the truth she targeted Ethan in a revenge attack. She ran the former lawyer down in scenes that were aired during the soap’s milestone Emmerdale’s 10,000th episode. Ethan was hurt, but refused hospital treatment and owned up to the drink driving incident.
On the day of his death, Ethan was due in court to face charges of dangerous driving. But he never made it that far after collapsing following a chat with dad Charles. He was taken to hospital, but there was nothing anyone could do. He’d gone.
Heartbroken Charles was convinced his son had died as a result of being run over, but an autopsy later confirmed Ethan had been killed by a hereditary brain aneurysm.
Helen’s time on Emmerdale was
Helen Fox
September saw the arrival and departure of Ruby Fox Miligan‘s estranged mum, Helen – who was killed off after just two episodes! The character was played by iconic actress Sharon Maughan.
Helen had been absent from her daughter’s life since she husband Anthony turfed Ruby out when she was a pregnant teen. But 30 years later, Helen had learnt she was terminally ill and wanted to make amends.
She contacted Ruby, but Caleb intercepted the call. He paid Helen a secret visit in hospital and blackmailed her into transferring £100k in exchange for him getting Ruby to see her. Helen coughed up the cash, but Caleb didn’t tell Ruby about their meeting.
The next day, Ruby was called by a nurse, who alerted her to Helen’s declining health. By the time she got to the hospital Helen had died. The pair never got their chance to make their peace and Ruby was devastated to learn Caleb had kept her mum from her.
Helen’s death paved the way for the arrival of Ruby’s father Anthony and daughter Steph, but we think Emmerdale missed a trick by not keeping her in for longer. Imagine the showdowns!
Pearl is probably causing mischief up in the sky now (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale deaths in 2024: Pearl Ladderbanks
Pearl’s death did not happen on-screen, but fans still mourned the passing of the much-loved local.
Glamorous granny Pearl was a staple of village life between 2003 and 2019. She was married to fellow OAP Len Reynolds and frenemies with god-fearing Edna Birch.
Wherever Pearl went trouble often followed. She got conned into investing in a get-rich-quick scheme and ran up a huge debt borrowing money from Eric Pollard. She also had a spell being a gambling addict, and even faked having Alzheimer’s to excuse her behaviour.
In 2019, it was announced actress Meg Johnson was taking an extended break from the soap due to ill health. Pearl’s absence was explained to viewers that she’d moved to a static caravan in Demdyke, then joined her grandson Owen in Hong Kong.
Meg Johnson died on July 1, 2023 aged 86. Her family released a statement saying she’d been battling dementia. Emmerdale also paid tribute to the star saying she would be ‘greatly missed by everyone who knew her’.
Earlier this year, Owen contacted Pearl’s former boss Rhona Goskirk to let her know his grandmother had died.
Ella visited June and it turned out they had a dark history (Credit: ITV)
June Phillips
June was an elderly lady who was visited by Ella Forster back in May 2024. Suffering from dementia, June was living in a care home, and had no recollection of Ella. A day after their meeting, Ella returned to see June but was told by the care home receptionist she’d died from a suspected heart attack.
Viewers were already aware Ella was harbouring a dark secret from her past and it was clear June was connected in some way. The truth finally came out at the old lady’s funeral when it was revealed Ella was the childhood friend of June’s daughter, Joanne Phillips.
Ella had unintentionally murdered Joanne in a jealous outburst on the day of her 11th birthday in 2005, and served time in prison for the crime.
The revelation sent shockwaves around the village, but poor June was never mentioned after that. So less of a memorable character, and more of a plot device.
We are gutted that Rebecca White is no more (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale deaths in 2024: Rebecca White
Rebecca White’s death was another one that left us all shook.
When Ross Barton returned to the village in the autumn, we assumed his girlfriend Rebecca wouldn’t be far behind. But no. According to Ross, Rebecca is no more.
During a catch up with ex Charity, Ross dropped the bombshell that Rebecca’s heart stopped during a routine medical procedure and attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. He explained he and Rebecca were no longer a couple, but had remained amicable for Seb’s sake. The poor lad had been in Ross’s care when the tragedy happened, but was taken away a week later to live with an aunt of Rebecca’s in Bristol.
Rebecca was introduced to the village in 2016 as the sassy younger sister of Chrissie, and immediately put the cat amongst the pigeons. She had a one-night stand with Robert Sugden, the product of which was little Seb. She also survived an attempt on her life by twisted nephew Lachlan.
All in all Bex was a great character and someone we wouldn’t have been sad to see return. Killing her off has killed that opportunity.
Zak has left a big hole in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Zak Dingle
The saddest goodbye of the year was the one we had to say to the one and only Zak Dingle.
Following actor Steve Halliwell‘s death in December 2023, the Emmerdale writers came up with a fitting end for the character he’d played for over 28 years.
After news came from Scotland of the Dingle patriarch’s passing, Cain and Sam travelled up there to bring their dad’s body home to Emmerdale. Following Zak’s wish to be buried in Dingle land within 48 hours, the family escorted his coffin to The Woolpack for one last pint. Zak was then drummed up the road on his final journey.
Proceedings were almost derailed by Tina Dingle’s rowdy arrival and Cain being too choked up to deliver his speech. But in the end Zak was laid to rest along with the ashes of his late wife Lisa.
Dean Andrews has left his role as Will Taylor (Credit: ITV)
Will Taylor
On Christmas Day there was devastation at Home Farm as Will Taylor suffered a heart attack. He and Kim Tate had just renewed their wedding vows, but then Joe Tate arrived and exposed the fact Will had been plotting with him and Peter to bring Kim down. It was poor timing as Will had actually changed his mind and decided he did love Kim and tried to call the plan off.
But Kim didn’t believe him and left him clutching his chest as he began to suffer pains. In a brilliant throwback to the death of Frank Tate, Kim powdered her nose!
However, when she realised it was for real, she sprang into action, and tried to give Will CPR. Sadly it was no use and Will was pronounced dead. The fallout from his death is set to be huge with both Joe and Kim coming under suspicion for his murder. However, some fans are convinced Will’s not really dead and it’s just an elaborate plot…
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
Christmas in Soapland is the gift that keeps on giving, and Emmerdale has treated us to some spectacular seasonal episodes.
Along with the usual turkey, trimmings and tantrums, December 25th in the village often brings the most dramatic births, marriages and deaths.
So here are our picks of the 11 best Emmerdale Christmas moments…
Lisa and Zak with their little Christmas miracle – baby Belle (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Vic dies and Belle is born 1998
Birth and death was the theme for the Emmerdale 1998 Christmas episode.
Postmaster Vic Windsor was killed off in a bungled armed robbery by Andy Sugden’s dad, Billy Hopwood. A fight ensued after Vic caught Billy trying to break into his Post Office safe. Billy – who was armed with a shotgun – threatened Vic, then pushed him into a set of shelves. Critically injured by the impact, Vic pleaded with Billy to ring an ambulance, but the cowardly criminal scarpered. Poor Vic was left to die alone, as 11.1 million tuned in to mourn the passing of one of their favourite characters.
While Vic was breathing his last, over at Wishing Well Cottage the Dingles were receiving a surprise delivery. Belle entered the world after Lisa gave birth in the family’s pigsty. But the biggest shock was she didn’t even she was she pregnant. No wonder why Zak fainted at the sight of his wife cradling their newborn daughter!
We love a good old Christmas wedding (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice and Ashley tie the knot 2000
Ashley and Bernice’s sweet love story led them all the way to the altar on Christmas Day 2000.
Fans had waited a long time to see the vicar and barmaid say I do, and the service was watched by an audience of almost 10 million. Bernice looked beautiful in a traditional ivory gown and veil, while Ashley was dapper in his dog collar. In a break with usual tradition, the wedding went without a hitch.
But sadly the fairytale wasn’t to last. Less than a year later, Ashley and Bernice’s marriage was over after she confessed to an affair with sexy chef Carlos Diaz.
Louise killed menacing Ray in self defence (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Louise Appleton kills her stalker boyfriend 2002
Danger loomed in the 2002 festive episode when Woolpack landlady Louise Appleton discovered the identity of her secret stalker.
Louise was being hounded by creepy messages from a mystery tormenter, but had no idea it was actually her boyfriend, Ray Mullen. Having convinced Louise she was in danger, Ray then persuaded her to move away with him to Italy.
As Christmas Day arrived, the couple left Emmerdale and were on their way to the airport. But the journey took a sinister turn when Louise realised Ray was the one who’d been making her life hell.
She fought back and Ray lost control of the wheel, forcing the car off the road. With Ray knocked unconscious, Louise managed to flee the scene and make it back to the village, but he wasn’t far behind.
The drama continued on Boxing Day when Ray arrived at Mill Cottage for a final showdown with Louise. A violent fight ensued, which resulted in Louise killing her evil boyfriend.
Louise was now a murderer, but got away with it after her friend Terry Woods helped make it look as if Ray had died by accident.
Tom King breathed his last on Christmas Day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Who killed Tom King 2006
Tom King’s murder stands out as one of Emmerdale’s finest Christmas episodes.
The nasty King patriarch was killed at Home Farm on the day of his wedding to Rosemary Sinclair. Tom was getting ready for the reception in an upstairs bedroom when he was confronted by a shadowy figure. An argument broke out and Tom was bludgeoned with a bronze ornament before being shoved through a window. He fell to his death in front of the shocked locals, who were gathered to celebrate his big day.
The shock murder sparked a huge whodunnit, but the suspect list was rather long due to the amount of enemies Tom had. Those in the frame included Tom’s three sons, Jimmy, Matthew and Carl, and even his new bride Rosemary.
Fans had to wait a whole five months before it was revealed that Carl was the killer. He’d finished his father off after Tom threatened to disinherit him unless he dumped girlfriend, Chas Dingle.
Victoria nearly met a watery end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Victoria falls through the icy lake 2008
Christmas 2008 was nearly Victoria’s last after she fell through a freezing lake.
Vic had been out drinking in the grounds of Home Farm with her mates when she stepped onto a frozen lake. Suddenly the ice beneath her gave way and the teen was plunged into the sub zero waters.
She was saved by Daz Eden’s quick-thinking actions, as he risked his own life to rescue Victoria. When she regained consciousness, Victoria revealed she’d seen a body floating in the murky lake.
The corpse turned out to be rapist police officer Shane Doyle, who had been murdered weeks previously by Jasmine Thomas.
Chas took her revenge on love rat Carl (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas jilts Carl at the altar 2010
Emmerdale love a festive wedding drama – and Chas Dingle and Carl King‘s disastrous 2010 nuptials definitely delivered.
The pair’s toxic relationship imploded after Chas learnt Carl had been bedding barmaid Eve Jenson. Charity urged her cousin to take the cheating toe rag for every penny – which is exactly what she did! Chas popped the question to Carl and pretended she was pregnant with his kid. A wedding was swiftly arranged and Chas asked Eve to be her bridesmaid, putting her in a revolting peach puffball dress to ensure maximum humiliation.
With the stage set, Chas then dumped Carl in front of the entire congregation, outing his betrayal with Eve and revealing there was no baby. Now that’s how you do revenge.
Katie and Andy’s Christmas Day wedding did not go without a hitch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Robert sabotages Andy and Katie’s wedding 2014
Andy Sugden and Katie Addyman hoped it would be second time lucky when they set the date for December 25, 2014. Vengeful Robert had other ideas.
Unable to back down in the bitter war with his brother and the woman he’d once loved, Robert had already given Andy a black eye before his big day. But he wasn’t going to stop there.
As Andy and Katie exchanged vows at the altar they were horrified to realise Robert had sabotaged their rings. Inside her gold band was inscribed the words ‘village bike’, while Andy had ‘village idiot’ inside of his.
But Robert wasn’t the only one who tried to disrupt the nuptials. Andy’s broken-hearted ex Bernice Blackstock also screamed abuse at the congregation of St Mary’s and had to be restrained by Diane.
Despite all the interruptions, Katie and Andy did actually get end up getting wed – but what a day!
Robert Sugden’s sins came back to haunt him at Christmas (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Robert’s dream sequence 2017
Robert Sugden took centre stage in 2017, in a festive offering that marked a change of direction for Emmerdale.
In a break away from the traditional style storytelling, the episode acted as a standalone one. It was described by Emmerdale’s then boss Iain MacLeod as “Groundhog Day meets A Christmas Carol with a little nod to the film Don’t Look Now.”
The episode saw Robert wake up multiple times on Christmas morning, facing a different reality each time. In each sequence, Robert was visited by the ghosts of Christmas future, as he saw the impact of his selfish and reckless behaviour.
Returning to present day, Robert made a desperate attempt to right his wrongs, hoping to rekindle his romance with on/off lover Aaron Dingle.
The installment really broke barriers for soap, and was enjoyed by 5.1 viewers. Unfortunately they didn’t get the Christmas gift of a Robron reunion, but that followed shortly afterwards.
Chas and Paddy’s romantic wedding brought a tear to our eyes (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Paddy and Chas say I do 2020
Who can forget Christmas 2020, aka the one where we were all in lockdown? But amidst the Covid pandemic gloom came a ray of light in the form of Paddy Kirk and Chas Dingle’s festive nuptials.
Paddy had decided to surprise Chas with a romantic wedding and had been busy making plans to ensure the day was perfect. But it nearly didn’t go ahead after Chas suggested Christmas weddings were cursed, and Paddy quickly cancelled.
When Chas realised what Paddy had been planning she had a sudden change of heart. She summoned Paddy to the church, where she asked him to marry her! The couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony with only Marlon, Aaron and Bear in attendance. And Chas looked stunning in a gorgeous red dress that Paddy had purchased specially.
Afterwards, the happy couple returned to The Woolpack, which had been transformed into a winter wonderland, and enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.
The Woolpack went up in flames on Christmas Day 2021 (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: The Woolpack explosion 2021
Christmas 2021 went with a bang as the poor Woolpack was destroyed in an explosion.
The pub had taken a huge financial hit during the Covid pandemic and was failing to make a profit. So in swooped shady businessman Al Chapman who offered to buy the lease off landlady Chas Dingle.
But Al had a secret agenda – he and evil boss Gavin were planning to close down the Woolie and turn the building into swanky flats. Under pressure to deliver, Al torched the soap’s iconic boozer. The flames quickly took hold leading to an almighty explosion!
Meanwhile, serial killer Meena Jutla almost committed another murder after fearing her Manpreet was onto her.
Charity gunned down Damon Harris to save Mack (Credit: ITV)
Charity kills Damon Harris 2023
Last Christmas was one Charity Dingle will never forget – but for all the wrong reasons! Charity shot and killed Damon ‘Harry’ Harris to stop him murdering her husband, Mackenzie Boyd.
In the lead up to Christmas, Harry had kidnapped and tortured Mack as payback for him dumping his daughter. Bit extreme, no? Harry fully intended to finish Mack off (with Chloe watching), but Charity got wind of what was going on.
She tailed Harry back to the dingy warehouse where he was holding Mack. Watching from the shadows, Charity witnessed Harry drawing a gun from his pocket to use on Mack.
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
Emmerdale has given us another year of fantastic drama with dark twists, killer secrets, explosive stunts and steamy affairs, but which were the top episodes of 2024?
With hundreds of episodes to choose from, it was almost impossible to select our favourites from 2024. But we’ve managed to narrow it down to 14.
So here are our top picks from this year…
Belle’s dream wedding turned into a nightmare (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Belle and Tom’s wedding day
Belle’s year from hell began with her nightmare wedding to Tom.
The actual ceremony ran fairly smoothly, but the same couldn’t be said for the reception. The event descended in chaos after vengeful Ruby decided to expose Caleb and Tracy’s affair in front of all the guests. Tom did not approve of Ruby’s floor show, nor was he a fan of the Dingles’ quirky wedding traditions – which included supping ale from a welly.
Later, the newlyweds returned home to consummate their marriage. But when Belle asked if she could read a letter from her late mum Lisa, jealous Tom exploded – launching a tirade of cruel abuse against his wife and new in-laws.
Claiming he’d made a terrible mistake by marrying her, Tom stormed upstairs to bed, leaving Belle to spend her wedding night on the sofa.
Belle started the holiday with such high hopes (Credit: ITV)
Belle’s holiday from hell
At the height of Tom’s reign of terror he took Belle and their pet pooch Piper for a ‘romantic’ getaway to a remote cottage in Wales. His motive, of course, was to isolate Belle from her loved ones. Cain and Charity realised Belle was in danger and dashed to Wales. They discovered the cottage had been trashed, with blood stains on the wall and Belle nowhere to be seen.
The shock discovery led fans to fear Belle had been murdered by her evil husband.
Her fate was finally confirmed in a tense two-hander. It flashbacked to four days earlier and showed how the trip away had spiraled into the holiday from hell. Behind closed doors, Tom continually terrorised Belle and Piper. He made the defenseless dog sleep outside in the cold, and attacked Belle over her decision to have an abortion.
Pushed to her limits, Belle eventually snapped. She took Piper and made a break for it, locking Tom inside the cottage – which he then turned over in anger.
As the episode ended, Belle and Piper were seen driving off in a bus as Tom chased behind. If only that had been the last we’d seen of him.
Rhona’s bravery saw Gus end up behind bars (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Rhona takes down Gus in court
We love a good courtroom drama – and Rhona served us up a right treat back in April.
Earlier that month Rhona had been acquitted of kidnapping baby Ivy. Next it was Gus’s turn to stand trial for stealing Rhona’s embryos, which were used to impregnant his late wife Lucy – the result of which was little Ivy.
Despite all he had put her through, Rhona had agreed to read out a statement of support for her ex-husband.
However, Rhona made a snap decision to expose Gus’s crimes and told the courtroom he was planning to flee to France with Ivy. Justice prevailed and the judge handed down an eight-year prison sentence on Gus.
Marlon was mad with his wife for not telling him what she was going to do. But we don’t think Rhona owed anyone an explanation.
Belle was haunted by visions of her imagined futures (Credit: ITV)
Belle’s imagined futures
In September, Emmerdale took Belle’s abuse storyline in a new direction with an inspired ‘imagined futures’ episode.
By this point Belle was a shell of her former self, completely broken by Tom’s sustained campaign of terror. And as she wandered around the village in a dazed state, she envisioned three possible ways her life could end up.
In her first future, Belle pretended to take Tom back in order to stop his new girlfriend Amelia from suffering the same fate. Belle then told Tom it was all a trick, but as the clock went forward to Christmas – she was five months pregnant and still under his control.
The second imagining saw Belle expose Tom in the middle of The Woolpack. Cain overheard and beat Tom to near death. He was arrested for attempted murder, but to Belle’s horror all the locals believed Tom was the victim – not her.
Finally, the third scenario saw Belle getting on with her life while Tom made Amelia’s a misery. In the end, Amelia was carried out of Dale Head in a body bag, with Tom claiming she’d fallen down the stairs. The truth, of course, was more chilling.
The episode ended with the return to present day, as Belle found the courage to confide in Charity about Tom’s true nature.
Ella is a convicted child killer (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Ella is outed as a killer
One of the most shocking twists of 2024 was the revelation that Ella Forster was a convicted child killer.
Viewers had already worked out Ella was harbouring a secret from her past. First came the cagey, strange behaviour then there were the mysterious trips to an elderly lady called June, who was in a care home in the late stages of dementia.
All was revealed in May at June’s funeral when one of the mourners branded Ella a ‘killer’.
It transpired that on her 11th birthday, Ella murdered her childhood best friend Joanne (and June’s daughter) in a jealous rage. She had spent years in prison for the crime and was given a new identity after her release.
Moira sparked a huge explosion at Butlers barn (Credit: ITV)
The Butler’s barn explosion
Emmerdale always delivers with their stunts and the explosion at Butlers was another triumph!
Moira Barton started the blaze by accident while in the grips of a psychotic episode (which viewers later learnt was caused by a brain tumour). In her confused state, the farmer was haunted by visions of her late nemesis Emma Barton.
After threatening Ruby Fox-Miligan with a shotgun, a tussle ensued and the weapon went off. The bullet hit a lightbulb and sparked an inferno that quickly engulfed the barn. Moira and Ruby were trapped with no way out, so Mackenzie Boyd and John Sugden risked their own lives in order to rescue them.
Cain also tried to get inside the barn, but was knocked back by a huge fireball. By some miracle everyone lived to tell the tale.
Ethan was left for dead in Emmerdale’s 10,000th episode (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Emmerdale’s 10,000th episode
On May 22, 2024, Emmerdale aired its 10,000th episode and marked the milestone celebration in style. It had a bit of everything – a near-fatal hit and run, one couple getting caught in the act, a sweet nod to the past and a missing lamb.
The locals were brought together for a big village fete, which was organised by Nicola King. But danger was lurking when vengeful Ruby Fox-Miligan decided to punish Ethan Anderson for the car crash that almost killed her son Nicky. She mowed Ethan down then drove away!
Meanwhile, the villagers got involved with a scarecrow making competition – with ones made in tribute to former residents Seth Armstrong, Betty Eagleton and Edna Birch.
Over in one of the local barns, Charity and Mackenzie were enjoying a roll around in the hay when they were interrupted by the arrival of folk looking for Isaac Dingle’s pet lamb, Minty. Awkward!
But the day ended on a high when Minty was discovered alive and well by unlikely saviour Kim Tate. Hurrah!
Cain committed the ultimate betrayal by sleeping with Ruby (Credit: ITV)
Cain cheats with Ruby while Moira undergoes brain surgery
In November, Emmerdale aired an emotional installment which followed Moira as she underwent life-saving surgery to remove a tumour from her brain.
It was an episode full of surprises, and the first one came when viewers got a glimpse into Moira’s dreams. As she slipped into unconsciousness, Moira returned to her happy place at Butlers Farm with Isaac and Kyle. Moira sat down in the sunshine and turned to see her late daughter Holly – who died from a heroin overdose – was by her side.
The heartfelt reunion was an acting masterclass from Natalie J Robb and Sophie Powles, who were last seen on screen together in 2016. Moira and Holly exchanged heartfelt words and hugged, before Moira’s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her surgeon’s voice.
Meanwhile back in the village, Cain was in bits over the prospect of losing his wife on the operating table. But that didn’t stop him screwing sister-in-law Ruby in the garage.
Fans flocked to social media to express their disgust at the pair’s shock betrayal, with some saying it the worst thing Cain has ever done.
The Dingles raised a glass to their beloved Zak (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Zak’s final farewell
There wasn’t a dry eye in the Dales as the locals gathered to say a final, poignant farewell to Zak Dingle. The Emmerdale icon was written out of the show 10 months after the real-life passing of actor Steve Halliwell.
Zak’s family planned his funeral according to his last wishes. The patriarch wanted to be buried in the Dingle land within 48 hours of his death and take one last journey through the village.
Cain, Sam and the rest of the clan took Zak’s coffin to The Woolpack and raised a toast to him. After a good old sing song it was time for Zak to be drummed up the road to be buried alongside his late wife Lisa.
There were moments of high drama – Tina’s rowdy arrival – and unexpected tenderness – Cain getting too emosh to deliver his eulogy. But mainly the episode left fans asking one question: where were all the other Dingles?
No one messes with Kim Tate (Credit: ITV)
Kim is Will’s blackmailer
2024 marked the welcome return of Queen Kim, as she was unveiled as Will’s mystery blackmailer. After discovering her husband had cheated with ex-wife Rose, Kim plotted a revenge scheme reminiscent of her glory days.
For weeks, she tormented Will with anonymous messages, threatening to expose his betrayal unless he paid up. He was forced to sign over his shares in the haulage yard to Caleb, unaware that he was handing money over to his wife.
Viewers were also kept in the dark about the identity of Will’s blackmailer, even though we all knew in our hearts it had to be Kim.
For her final act, Kim faked her own kidnap then lured Will into the woods. There, he discovered a creepy mannequin lying on the ground with his wife’s face on it.
The big (or not so big) reveal came after Will had dug up a coffin, and was then whacked over the head with a shovel. As he lay unconscious in the ground, Kim stood over with a look of pure satisfaction on her face. A lesson to cheating fellas everywhere!
Paddy and Mandy got their happy ending (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: Mandy and Paddy say I do
These two gave us a rare moment of joy when they became husband and wife (again!) in August. But the wedding very nearly didn’t go ahead.
Just hours before they were meant to exchange vows Bear informed Paddy his bride-to-be had been secretly working as a financial dominatrix called Madame Diamante Dales. Bear was adamant his son couldn’t go through with marrying a liar, but Marlon thought Mandy deserved a chance to explain herself. Thankfully Paddy agreed to hear her out.
During an emotional heart-to-heart, Mandy revealed she’d turned to findom as a way of fixing her debt problems. Paddy was hurt she hadn’t been honest but conceded they’d both made silly mistakes.
There was just about enough time left for the couple to dash to the church and exchange vows in front of their loved ones. Afterwards, in The Woolpack, Paddy held his new wife and told her: “This time it’s forever.”
We’d like to believe him, but this is Soapland…
Now that’s how you do a comeback (Credit: ITV)
Ross Barton returns
The return of fan favourite Ross Barton was a real autumn highlight. After a six years absence, we wondered how the Emmerdale writers would reintroduce Ross to the soap. And they definitely didn’t disappoint.
Ross was unveiled as Billy Fletcher’s ‘beast’ of a competitor in a bare-knuckle brawl organised by dodgy promotor Jade. All rippling muscle and with a lust for danger, we are delighted to see Ross hadn’t lost any of his old charm.
It transpired Ross had been making a name for himself in the underground boxing world. He also proved he was more than a match for Billy. Post-fight, Ross paid a visit to the village to catch up with old friends and family.
Since his comeback at the end of October, Ross has been busy making new enemies and adding more notches to his bedpost. We can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store for him.
April nearly suffered the same fate as Donna (Credit: ITV)
Best 2024 Emmerdale episodes: April’s kidnap terror
December 5, 2024 is a day poor April Windsor would rather forget. In the space of a few hours she was kidnapped, held over the roof of a multistory carpark and discovered the truth about her mum’s suicide.
The teen was snatched by new villain Jade who wanted payback against Ross Barton. Jade believed Ross had stolen money from her and decided to target his late girlfriend’s daughter. April was abducted and driven to the same carpark where her mum Donna died 15 years earlier. It was a deliberate choice by Jade to cause Ross maximum distress – and boy did it do the trick.
As Ross arrived on the scene he discovered April being held over the edge by Jade’s henchmen. The terrified lass nearly went over, but was saved when Mackenzie and Aaron coughed up £7000 of Jade’s missing £10k. Ross was told he had to pay the rest.
Sadly April’s distress didn’t end there. Ross then revealed Donna’s death that day was avoidable and she’d thrown herself over the car park on purpose in order to bring criminal Gary North to justice.
Is it any wonder April’s going off the rails after hearing news like that?
Shocking flashback scenes revealed Ruby was abused by Anthony(Credit: ITV)
Ruby’s past is revealed
Our award for best newcomer of 2024 goes to Ruby Fox-Miligan. Less than 12 months in and she’s already an Emmerdale icon thanks to actress Beth Cordingly’s knockout performances.
Like all great characters, Ruby has a complex backstory. As a pregnant teen, she was disowned by her parents and subsequently had a troubled relationship with daughter Steph. But the arrival of Ruby’s estranged father Anthony also hinted there was a dark secret lurking in their past. One which was finally revealed during a special flashback episode.
Viewers were transported back to the day of Ruby’s 16th birthday. They watched in horror as the defenceless teen was sexually assaulted by Anthony in her bedroom. They also learnt this wasn’t the first time it had happened.
The shock flashbacks were interspersed with scenes from the present day as Ruby sat in The Woolpack frozen in fear and unable to tell Caleb what happened all those years ago. It’s also raised questions as to whether Steph could be Anthony’s daughter. How much longer before this ticking timebomb explodes?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
Joe Tate returned to Emmerdale tonight and was revealed to be behind Will and Peter’s plot to bring down Kim Tate. Kim also had an accident on her horse and was taken to hospital.
So, with the odds stacked against her, is someone finally going to get the better of Kim Tate? And is she leaving Emmerdale?
Joe Tate returns
After the shock return of Joe Tate to Emmerdale, there is plenty of drama to look forward to. He is the man pulling the strings of the plot to topple Queen Kim, and Will is just a pawn in his game.
But what is his game? Well, we don’t know much, but we know Kim won’t be happy to see him!
Of his comeback to Emmerdale, actor Ned Porteous, who plays Joe, said: “I’m so excited to be returning to Emmerdale. There’s a lot of unfinished business for Joe, and it feels like the right time for him to make a comeback.
“Joe has always been a character with a dark side, but there could be something much bigger at play here. Joe is back for a reason, and the devastation at Home Farm is just the beginning of a much bigger story. It’s safe to say the audience can expect fireworks this holiday season!”
Joe Tate is back! (Credit: ITV)
Kim Tate’s accident in Emmerdale
With Kim and Will planning to renew their vows on Christmas Day, all the family around them and poorly Evan home for Christmas, Kim Tate seems to be ready for a very happy Christmas. She seemingly doesn’t know Will is plotting against her.
Tonight (Tuesday December 24) saw Kim go out for a ride on her horse Ice. But Ice was spooked and reared up. He threw Kim from his back and wandered off alone.
When Will spotted the horse and then saw a lifeless body in the next field, he realised something awful had happened to Kim.
He called an ambulance and – lo and behold – realised he loved her and he no longer wanted revenge. But it’s a bit too late to stop the revenge plot. Oh dear.
Something awful happens on Christmas Day at Home Farm (Credit: ITV)
Christmas Day at Home Farm
As Christmas Day dawns, we are given a flashforward to what has happened at Home Farm. There’s eerie music playing, the Christmas tree is on its side and there has obviously been a struggle.
Who has been the victim? Is Kim dead? Has she offed Joe Tate as soon as he returned? Has Will met his maker? Or have Dawn, Billy or the kids been caught in the crossfire?
We don’t know yet and it’s got us rather concerned that Kim Tate might be on her way out of Emmerdale.
What will become of Kim and Will this Christmas? (Credit: ITV)
Is Kim Tate leaving Emmerdale?
Although nothing is certain, we know that actress Claire King has told us Kim isn’t celebrating New Year’s Eve with the rest of the villagers. She told Emmerdale Insider and other media: “All I know is that I don’t think we go to the Woolpack New Year’s Eve do. I manage to get out of those.
“I was too busy on another set, but I won’t say which one because it might give something away.”
So, it looks like Kim’s not in a great state, but as Claire was still filming, fortunately still alive!
Claire also teased the return of evil Kim: “She’s been nice for three years, really. It’s kind of ‘Zzzzzz. Hi kiddies! Come on, Granny takes you!’ It’s like, ‘Ugh! I want to kill someone!’”
So could the return of bad Kim signify she’s not leaving at all?
One thing’s for sure, we are really looking forward to Christmas in Emmerdale this year!
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
Dean Andrews, who plays Will Taylor in Emmerdale, has excited fans by dropping a sneak peek of Christmas Day at Home Farm on his social media.
We know the manor house and it’s inhabitants will be the centre of the action this Christmas as Kim and Will prepare to renew their wedding vows, but we don’t know what will happen next…
The Christmas drama focuses on Home Farm (Credit: ITV)
Sneak look at Christmas Day in Emmerdale
Posting a family picture to his Instagram account, Dean wrote: “Our little Emmerdale family,” and then tagged some of his co-stars.
In the image, taken on the set of Home Farm with them all in their wedding finery, are Dean as Will, plus Gabby Thomas with her son Thomas, Kim Tate, Dawn and Billy Fletcher and their kids Clemmie and Lucas.
Fans loved the shot, with many getting excited for the festive episode in the comments.
“But will it be a happy Christmas? Can’t wait to tune in over Christmas to find out!” said one.
Another added: “can’t wait to watch the Christmas episode to fine out what will happen on the day something exciting to keep us watching.”
“I can’t wait to watch Christmas on the Dales this year,” said one more.
No happy ever after for Kim and Will (Credit: ITV)
What happens this Christmas?
As Christmas Day opens, we see a flashforward to what has gone on at Home Farm. There’s eerie music playing, the Christmas tree is on its side and it’s clear there’s been a struggle. But who was at the centre of it all?
We do now know Joe Tate is returning for the big storyline. He is the one pulling the strings behind Will and Peter’s plot to destroy Kim. And he is the one not willing to let it go, despite Will’s desire to put a stop to his revenge.
Will realises on Christmas Eve that he does love his wife after she has an accident on her horse, Ice. But as he rushes her to hospital he also faces a race against time to stop the plot going ahead.
And it’s clear from what we know about Christmas Day, he’s not successful at all…
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
Emmerdale has revealed who has been tormenting Kim – and they’ve answered all of our prayers because Joe Tate is back!
Ned Porteous is reprising his role as Chris Tate’s son, but what he really wants and why he’s back remains to be seen.
Joe Tate is back! (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale reveals Joe Tate has returned
In a post on X, Emmerdale announced the news of Joe’s return, saying he is the one who has been pulling the strings behind Peter and Will’s plot to bring down Kim.
Joe’s arrival comes just before a flashforward scene on Christmas Day which shows devastation at Home Farm. With Kim looking forward to Christmas and renewing her vows with Will, it looks like it will end in disaster.
Fans have long been asking for his comeback (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
So why is Joe Tate back in Emmerdale?
Not much else has been revealed – we don’t know what he’s plotting, nor what his ultimate goal is. But it is highly likely Joe is playing a much darker game that has consequences beyond those at Home Farm.
There will be huge confrontations, heartbreak and lots of twists as Home Farm is changed forever!
Of his return, Ned Porteous told the ITV website: “I’m so excited to be returning to Emmerdale. There’s a lot of unfinished business for Joe, and it feels like the right time for him to make a comeback.
“Joe has always been a character with a dark side, but there could be something much bigger at play here. Joe is back for a reason, and the devastation at Home Farm is just the beginning of a much bigger story. It’s safe to say the audience can expect fireworks this holiday season!”
Producer, Laura Shaw, also said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ned back to village as the complex and captivating Joe Tate. From the moment Joe arrives on screen, it’s clear there’s trouble ahead but Joe’s hiding an even darker secret that could see 2025 start off with a huge bang.”
Joe and Debbie were together (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Fans thrilled and excited by the return
We are very pleased about this news – and it’s fair to say fans are too. Commenting on the post as soon as it went live, they expressed their delight.
“THANK YOU EMMERDALE,” wrote on very excited viewer.
Another agreed: “Fantastic news so so happy you have brought Joe back and that it is still Ned playing him, thank you!”
“Awesome, I was so hoping this would happen!” added one more.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
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
Nothing says Christmas in soap like action-packed weddings, and Emmerdale has gifted us some highly memorable ones.
During the soap’s 52 year history no fewer than seven couples have got spliced over the festive period. It would have been nine if it wasn’t for Chas Dingle dumping cheating Carl King at the altar, and another groom dying on his wedding day.
Let’s take a look back at these festive weddings and relive all the shocks and surprises…
Kim and Frank’s second wedding was a grand affair (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Frank and Kim Tate
Frank and Kim hoped it would be second time lucky when they said I do on December 22, 1994. The couple’s first marriage had ended in divorce following Kim’s affair with handsome stockbroker, Neil Kincaid. But they were reunited after Frank saved Kim’s life during the plane crash of 1993.
In a break from the usual setting of St Mary’s, Kim and Frank opted to get hitched outside of Emmerdale in the rather grand Ripon Cathedral. Keen horse-woman Kim looked breathtaking in a corseted high-necked lace gown complete with a white dressage hat and veil.
The ceremony was followed by dinner and dancing, as the locals gathered to wish the newlyweds well. But the day ended on a sour note when Frank went to present Kim with her wedding gift – an expensive car – and found the motor had been nicked!
Biff and Linda’s big day ended in tragedy (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Linda Glover and Biff Fowler
Linda and Biff’s 1996 wedding day was full of drama, from beginning to end. First up the groom-to-be woke up nursing a huge hangover, which was not made any better by Seth Armstrong‘s herbal-cure-all-remedy.
Then Biff’s mum Sandra rocked up and tried to talk her son out of going ahead with the wedding, but thankfully she didn’t succeed. Biff and Linda exchanged vows in front of their nearest and dearest, while Jack Sugden acted as their wedding photographer.
Earlier in the day Biff had learnt that his best mate, and Linda’s brother, Dave was planning to run away with Kim Tate. He caught up with Dave at the reception and begged him to reconsider. But tragedy struck that night as Dave was killed rescuing Kim’s baby son James from a fire at Home Farm.
So what should have been the happiest day of Linda and Biff’s lives turned out to be one of the worst.
Ashley and Bernice’s happy ever after did not last long (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice Blackstock and Ashley Thomas
Ashley and Bernice were total opposites, but their adorable love story captured a nation. Nearly 10 million viewers tuned in to see the ditsy barmaid marry her vicar on Christmas Day 2000.
Unlike the majority of Emmerdale weddings, this one actually went without a hitch. Even Bernice’s estranged father, Rodney, managed to watch the ceremony without causing scene.
Bernice looked radiant in an ivory gown and veil, and carried a bouquet of red roses. And proud groom Ashley donned his traditional dog collar.
Unfortunately the couple’s happy ever after wasn’t to be. Less than a year after promising to remain faithful, Bernice was unable to resist the lure of sexy chef Carlos Diaz. She fell pregnant and gave birth to baby Gabby, who had to undergo a DNA test to determine who her daddy was. Classy stuff.
Tom’s sons objected to his choice of bride (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Tom King and Rosemary Sinclair
Tom and Rosemary were as vile as one another, in other words the perfect match. Nearly everyone was opposed to them as a couple, particularly Tom’s sons Jimmy, Matthew and Carl who believed Rosemary was a gold-digger.
However, Tom was serious about Rosemary, and proved this by asking her to marry him. Their wedding date was set for Christmas Day 2006, with a church wedding and lavish after party at Home Farm.
The actual ceremony went without a hitch and was rather romantic. But it was the shocking events that unfolded at the reception that have gone down in Emmerdale history.
Tom was getting ready in his bedroom when a shadowy figure entered. An argument broke out, and Tom was pushed to his death through the upstairs window. His horrifying murder sparked the soap’s biggest ever whodunit, and even Tom’s new bride Rosemary found herself in the frame.
The odds were stacked against David and Alicia on their wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Alicia Gallagher and David Metcalfe
Alicia and David took centre stage when they tied the knot during Emmerdale’s 2013 festive episode. The couple’s decision to get married on Christmas Day did not please everyone, particularly David’s ex Priya Sharma, who was expecting his baby at the time.
But Priya wasn’t the only problem Alicia and David had to contend with.
On the morning of the nuptials. David was struck down by a grim sickness bug and panicked he wouldn’t be able to make it through the ceremony without puking. Alicia found her boiler had broken so couldn’t get ready at home. She went over to The Woolpack where future stepmum Val Pollard offered to style her hair, then burnt it!
There was also a last-minute dress disaster, but Alicia and David did end the day as husband and wife.
Andy and Katie’s Christmas wedding was one to remember (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Katie Addyman and Andy Sugden
Christmas Day 2014 marked the second trip down the aisle for Andy Sugden and Katie Addyman. The couple’s first marriage was destroyed by Katie’s affair with brother-in-law Robert. And 10 years later he was out to cause trouble again.
Days before the wedding, Andy got into a punch up with Robert, which resulted in the groom getting a black eye. But Robert was about to add insult to injury. As Katie and Andy exchanged vows in the church they discovered Robert had sabotaged their wedding rings. Inside Katie’s ring was inscribed the words ‘village bike’, and Andy had ‘village idiot’ inside his.
But Robert wasn’t the only local who wanted to cause a scene. Andy’s jealous ex-girlfriend Bernice Blackstock crashed the service and started screaming abuse at everyone. She had to be carted off by mum Diane to calm down.
By some miracle the couple did eventually get married, but their love story ended in tragedy two months later when Katie was killed by Robert.
Paddy married his lady in red (Credit: ITV)
Chas Dingle and Paddy Kirk
Christmas 2020, aka the one where we were all in lockdown, was a difficult time for millions. But Paddy and Chas brought the joy with their heartfelt wedding.
Paddy decided the holiday season was the perfect time to make an honest woman out of Chas. He secretly arranged every detail of their surprise wedding. but when Chas suggested Christmas weddings were cursed, he panicked and called it off.
Chas felt awful when she realised what Paddy had been up to. Deciding that getting hitched at Christmas wasn’t so bad after all, Chas popped on the gorgeous red gown he’d bought her and summoned Paddy to St Mary’s, where she asked him to marry her!
In front of a congregation of three (Paddy’s best mate Marlon, his dad Bear and Chas’s son Aaron), the happy couple exchanged vows. Afterwards they went back to The Woolpack, which the locals had transformed into a winter wonderland.
Carl King wrecked his brother’s wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
And the ones that didn’t happen: Matthew King and Anna De Souza
It seemed ladies man Matthew King had finally been tamed when he popped the question to Anna De Souza. But Anna’s father, Donald – who was a rival of the King clan – refused to give his blessing.
Weeks before the wedding, Donald and Matthew got into a heated row. Donald suffered a heart attack and Matthew stood and watched him die instead of trying to help save him. The coroner ruled Donald had died from natural causes, but Matthew’s brother Carl knew what really happened.
Carl hated Matthew anyway so seized the chance to ruin his happiness. He gatecrashed Matthew and Anna’s big day and exposed the groom’s shameful secret to everyone. Unsurprisingly Anna didn’t fancy marrying Matthew after learning what he’d done to her dad. She dumped him at the altar and fled.
In revenge, Matthew tried to mow Carl down in a van, but ended up careering into a wall. He died at the scene of the crash, in Anna’s arms.
Cheating Carl King got what he deserved (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas Dingle and Carl King
Chas jilting love rat Carl King at the altar was the best Christmas gift fans could have asked for. The landlady had discovered her boyfriend was bedding barmaid Eve Jenson (the granddaughter of Edna Birch). But instead of just dumping him, Chas decided to bide her time to take revenge on Carl.
With cousin Charity in on her plan, Chas told Carl she was pregnant. The couple got engaged and set the date for Christmas Day 2010. Chas made all the arrangements for their festive nuptials, making sure no expense was spared. Carl was happy to meet her every wish, while Chas secretly pocketed his dosh in the process.
As the wedding day arrived, Chas waited until Carl was stood at the altar before exposing Carl’s betrayal to the entire congregation. Chas also announced she wasn’t actually pregnant and the whole thing had been a scam to extort money.
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.
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