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  • Where to see Emmerdale stars in panto in 2024 – from Tom Lister to Bill Ward

    Where to see Emmerdale stars in panto in 2024 – from Tom Lister to Bill Ward

    Panto season is almost upon us – oh yes it is – which means an array of famous faces will be treating the boards. Amongst them are some familiar former Emmerdale stars.

    Wherever you are in the UK, there will be theatre near you holding a pantomime. From Jack and the Beanstalk and Cinderella to Dick Whittington and Peter Pan, there’s something for everyone.

    Here’s where you can see some stars from your favourite soap.

    David Metcalfe - aka Matthew Wolfenden -left Emmerdale last year (Credit: ITV)
    David Metcalfe – aka Matthew Wolfenden -left Emmerdale last year (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale star in panto: Matthew Wolfenden

    Matthew, who played David Metcalfe in Emmerdale, will be heading to the panto stage this year.

    The actor will play Jack in the Sunderland Empire production of Jack and the Beanstalk. The show will run between December 13 and January 5, 2025.

    “I am thrilled to be playing Jack in the iconic Jack and the Beanstalk this Christmas,” Matthew said.

    “Where better to spend Christmas than at the Sunderland Empire, one of the most beautiful theatres in the land. Can’t wait to see you there!”

    David left Emmerdale last November after 17 years in the role. After discovering that his son Jacob was dating his ex-girlfriend Victoria, David decided to leave the Dales for good.

    James Barton star Bill will be playing Captain Hook (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
    James Barton star Bill will be playing Captain Hook (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    Bill Ward

    Bill starred as James Barton in Emmerdale for four years before the character met a grisly end in 2017 at the hands of partner Emma.

    The actor, who also played Charlie Stubbs in Coronation Street, can be seen this panto season in Jack and the Beanstalk at Bridlington Spa theatre. He will play the role of the giant’s accomplice, Fleshcreep.

    The show will run from December 14 until January 5, 2025.

     

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    Hayley Tamaddon

    Hayley will be playing the Fairy Godmother in Blackpool Grand Theatre’s Pantomime Cinderella. between December 6 and January 5, 2025.

    Speaking about landing the part, Hayley said: “I am so thrilled to be back at the beautiful Grand Theatre once again. It really is the home of Blackpool’s No. 1 pantomime. It will be so wonderful for my little boy to see me every day in my beautiful sparkling costume as the Fairy Godmother and I hope everyone who comes to see me this year will be just as bewitched!”

    Hayley played Delilah Dingle in the soap between 2005 and 2007. She formed a relationship with David Metcalfe, but after she discovered his night of passion with Katie, she fleeced him of £20,000 and left the country. She also starred as Andrea in Coronation Street between 2013 and 2015.

    George Sampson

    George only starred in eight episodes of Emmerdale, but it counts – oh yes it does.

    The Britain’s Got Talent winner played Ryan Harred in the soap in 2016. Ryan was the former neighbour of Gordon Livesy and falsely told the police that Gordon abused him after he was paid to lie by Robert Sugden.

    This panto season, fans can catch him in the Pompey Panto at the Kings Theatre, Portsmouth. He will play the title role in a production of Dick Whittington. Former EastEnders star Lorraine Stanley also stars.

    The production runs from November 29 to December 31. Speaking about the role, George said: “I’m thrilled to announce my involvement in this year’s production of Dick Whittington! This will be my debut in this role and show, which brings a fresh and exciting challenge even after many years of performing in pantomimes.”

    Rachel Breckle actress Gemma will be in panto this year (Credit: Shutterstock)
    Rachel Breckle actress Gemma will be in panto this year (Credit: Shutterstock)

    Emmerdale stars in panto: Gemma Oaten 

    If you fancy something a bit different, then this may be the one for you. Gemma will be staring in Dick Whittington meets Pirates of the Caribbean at the Grimsby Auditorium.

    The show will see the title character embarking on an epic adventure in London before clashing with the pirates. Gemma will play Fairy Bow Bells between December 7 and December 29.

    Speaking about the fun show, Gemma said it would be “chaotic”, adding: “Allow yourself a good giggle and a bit of an escape…”

    Gemma starred in Emmerdale between 2011 and 2015, where she played Rachel Breckle. Her character was killed off off-screen in 2019.

    Tom Lister

    Tom will star in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan – The Return of Captain Hook (quite the mouthful) at the Floral Pavilion in the Wirral.

    The synopsis reads: “You can now join Peter, Smee, Tinker Bell, and Ethyl Mermaid on a brand-new swashbuckling adventure full of fun, laughter… and crocodiles and get to enjoy all the fun of the traditional Pantomime with a West End cast – but without paying West End prices.”

    Tom will star as evil Captain Hook until January 5, 2025. Watch out, he’s behind you….

    The actor played Carl King in Emmerdale between 2004 and 2012. Carl made several enemies and was eventually killed via a brick to the head by Cameron.

    Kelsey played Scarlett in Emmerdale (Credit: Ken McKay/Shutterstock)
    Kelsey played Scarlett in Emmerdale (Credit: Ken McKay/Shutterstock)

    Emmerdale stars in panto: Kelsey-Beth Crossley

    Former Emmerdale star Kelsey-Beth will star as the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin at Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Resort until December 24.

    A variety of popular faces, including influencer Charlotte Dawson, also star in the retelling of this popular classic.

    Kelsey-Beth is best known for her role as Scarlett Nicholls in Emmerdale. Scarlett was the daughter of Tom King and appeared between 2007 and 2011.

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    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 review of the week: Ruby’s past revealed, Tom’s latest victim, and we’re all Team Ross

    Emmerdale review of the week: Ruby’s past revealed, Tom’s latest victim, and we’re all Team Ross

    Emmerdale has absolutely knocked it out of the park with this week’s episodes so our Emmerdale review is quite emotional!

    Ruby’s story is not an easy one to tell – or watch – but we think it’s going to be handled really well.

    And in among the shocking reveal of Ruby’s heartbreaking past, there were some more highlights.

    Here’s what we thought of everything that happened in our Emmerdale review of the week.

    Ruby Fox-Miligan
    We found out exactly why Ruby is so frightened of her dad (Credit: ITV)

    Ruby’s big reveal

    So the truth is out – well, to the viewers at least. Ruby was abused by her creepy, manipulative father, Anthony. And there even seems to be an implication that Anthony could be Steph’s biological father.

    We are lifelong soap fans – we’ve seen it all over the years. But this one of the darkest stories we remember. It’s horribly bleak.

    But Ruby has won our hearts since her arrival in the village and we’re totally invested in her story. We really want Anthony to face justice, Ruby’s family to support her, and we really don’t want him to be Steph’s dad.

    Beth Cordingly, who plays Ruby, is so good at capturing her vulnerability and fear, while Nicholas Day – Anthony – is the most sinister, cold-hearted soap villain since, well, forever.

    We’re looking forward to seeing how this one plays out.

    Angel is still chatting to Tom on the phone, despite his not guilty plea (Credit: ITV)
    This whole thing has just been another part of Tom’s manipulation (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale review: Tom’s next victim

    At the start of this week, we were so confused about what was going on with Angelica and Tom. And when she recorded that video we started wondering if there was more going on – especially after the visit from Ollie the lawyer.

    We even found ourselves tutting and muttering that the video would prejudice the case – and suddenly we saw what was going on! That was exactly what Tom wanted to happen.

    Angelica’s just the latest victim of Tom’s manipulation. Like she said, he’s a monster, and we are desperate to see him get his comeuppance. Not long now!

    April and Ross chat
    We like April and Ross’s friendship (Credit: ITV)

    Team Ross

    Another highlight for us this week, was April and Ross’s cute friendship.

    Ross is getting a really rough ride from the villagers. He’s not bad (OK, he’s a bit bad, but doesn’t deserve all this!) and he shouldn’t be treated this way. We’re absolutely on his side. #TEAMROSS.

    Cain and Moira
    Cain and Moira are done (Credit: ITV)

    Cain and Moira in trouble

    The downside of this week’s gripping episodes was a lot of Moira and Cain nonsense. We are already exhausted about the potential reveal of Cain and Ruby, we hate Cain’s behaviour, we hate Moira being weirdly lovey-dovey one minute and vindictive the next, we hate it all. Make it stop.

    Emmerdale review: Losing the Will to live

    And you know what else needs to stop? Will’s ridiculous plan to destroy Kim. We’ve completely lost track of why he’s doing what he’s doing or, indeed, what he’s doing. We’re not sure who the Peter chap is, or why HE’S doing what he’s doing, and we have no idea who the mysterious puppet master is.

    But do you know what we are sure about? The fact that this is all Will’s fault! We aren’t completely sure how Kim ended up the villain (well, the whole weird buried alive thing wasn’t great, but still).

    If Will hadn’t jumped into bed with awful Rose, none of this would have happened. See, Will, THIS is what happens when you go out for a hamburger when you have steak at home. One thing’s for sure – that Valentine’s Day trip to Paris isn’t happening.

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    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

  • Who is the mystery man working to bring Kim down? All the suspects including Joe Tate and Jamie Tate

    Who is the mystery man working to bring Kim down? All the suspects including Joe Tate and Jamie Tate

    An Emmerdale return is almost here. And it lines up with the discovery of who the mystery man trying to take down Kim Tate is.

    For a few weeks, fans have known Peter is working for someone else, who is desperate to see Kim Tate suffer. But exactly who it is remains unknown. The only bit of detail we got was that it’s definitely a man.

    Earlier this week Will found out their revenge would take place on Christmas Day, as the other man is out of the country until Christmas Eve. Up until that point, Will didn’t know anyone else was involved in the plan.

    Since the revelation of a third party, fans have been creating many different theories as to who exactly it could be. And the purposeful lack of name hints that it is definitely someone we know…

    So here is a run-down of all the potential suspects for the Emmerdale return.

    Joe Tate at Home Farm
    Emmerdale return set for Joe Tate? (Credit: ITV)

    1. Emmerdale return for Joe Tate?

    One of the most popular theories is that Kim’s former step-grandson Joe Tate is making his highly awaited return to the village.

    Viewers will remember his exit in 2018, as Kim ordered him to be killed after he got cosy at Home Farm.

    This very nearly happened after a run-in with Cain, who for months believed he had killed Joe. But finally, it was revealed Graham had helped him go on the run from Kim. However, even she eventually found out he was alive after images of him surfaced.

    Many fans have been waiting for the day Joe comes back and tries to takeover Home Farm once again. And as there was a recent Emmerdale return for another village bad boy, Ross Barton, could they be bringing more back?

    So far, this one looks very convincing. Fans even pointed out the similarities between Peter and Graham.

    Jamie Tate Emmerdale village
    Could it be Jamie back for revenge? (Credit: ITV)

    2. Jamie Tate back for revenge?

    Could Kim’s own son be back for revenge? Jamie and Kim didn’t have a good mother / son bond at all.

    And to top it off their turbulent relationship ended with Jamie faking his own death to get away from Kim.

    After taking his daughter, Millie, and going on the run, could Jamie want to run the Tate empire? Maybe he wants to come back to the village, but knows he needs to get rid of Kim first.

    While it could be a strong possibility, would Jamie actually risk his daughter’s safety by coming back to the village for revenge? He never was one to take huge risks…

    3. Could Caleb be working against her?

    This one wouldn’t be an Emmerdale return as Caleb still lives in the village. But he definitely is someone who may take an opportunity to take Kim down.

    When he first arrived two years ago, it was revealed Frank Tate was his father, and he wanted what belonged to him. This led to a long feud between him and Kim.

    So was there an opportunity for him to go for round two? He isn’t one to give up on holding a grudge…

    However, he is heavily involved in his own family drama at the minute since Steph and Anthony turned up in the village. And Peter did say the mystery man was out of the country until Christmas Eve. So we think we could potentially rule this fan theory out.

    4. Another Tate member for an Emmerdale return?

    The Tates are quite an iconic family in the Dales, so it wouldn’t be extremely surprising if more of them had vendettas against Kim.

    And with the amount of them there are still alive and out there, it’s entirely possible that one of them may want their time running the big house.

    Are we in for an older Emmerdale return?

    Is Kim actually the mastermind? (Credit: ITV)

    5. Could Kim be playing everyone?

    Kim Tate is not a stupid person. So the fact she is currently oblivious to Will’s plan shocks many viewers. And now, some believe she could have known about it the entire time.

    We know it’s a man. So has the Queen of Home Farm managed to get someone on her side to help her get her own revenge?

    Whoever it is, thankfully we don’t have much longer to wait until we find out, as Christmas Day is fast approaching. And whoever it is, we’re sure it will cause fireworks for Kim.

    Who do you think it will be?

    Read more: A guide to the Tate family: A full family tree

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release at 7am on ITVX. 

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

    Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. Let us know what you think!

  • Is Steph Anthony’s daughter? Emmerdale sets up paternity question mark and fans want answers

    Is Steph Anthony’s daughter? Emmerdale sets up paternity question mark and fans want answers

    Is Steph in Emmerdale actually Anthony’s daughter? After last night’s shocking episode, it looks like there could be a paternity question.

    Since Anthony turned up in the village, viewers have known something seemed off with him. And they were right.

    In harrowing flashback scenes last night (December 12) viewers finally uncovered the dark truth that Anthony had sexually abused Ruby when she was a child. And her 16th birthday didn’t appear to be the first time.

    Steph and Anthony sitting down
    Emmerdale Steph is Anthony’s daughter? (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale Steph really Anthony’s daughter?

    We know, not too long after she turned 16, Ruby got pregnant with Steph, and her parents tried to force her to terminate the pregnancy. At the time, Ruby was in a relationship with Caleb, much to her parent’s dismay. But now we also know what went down between her and her dad.

    When Steph arrived into the village, she didn’t want a relationship with Caleb and Ruby. It appears when she was younger, they sent her away to boarding school, and never really bothered with her.

    So could there be an even more sinister twist waiting ahead? In Emmerdale Steph’s grandfather could actually be her dad? Fans seem to think so.

    Taking to social media after the episode aired last night, many raised their questions and theories.

    Ruby and Anthony arguing Emmerdale
    Fans ‘work out’ why Ruby sent Steph away as a child. (Credit: ITV).

    What will happen next in this storyline?

    One queried on Instagram: “So is Anthony Steph’s dad then?” Others had the same question.

    Over on X (formerly Twitter) theories were abounding: “I have a horrible feeling that Steph is not Anthony’s granddaughter, but actually is his daughter.”

    Another pointed out the similarities between Steph and Anthony could be a huge sign they are actually father and daughter. They wrote: “Poor Ruby. Steph is clearly Anthony’s child and that’s why they both squint with their left eye. He makes my skin crawl.”

    A third penned: “Now it makes sense why Ruby sent Steph to boarding school and had a fractured relationship with her. She must have been reminded of what happened every day. A horror of a situation. Anthony is an evil person.”

    Despite many thinking Emmerdale will go down this dark path, one viewer remains hopeful that in the end, Caleb will be Steph’s dad.

    They wrote: “Wow. What a powerful story. Very dark. But I do think Caleb is the real father and this will be revealed eventually. I’m predicting explosive scenes for all in 2025.”

    Whether Anthony is Steph’s father or not remains to be seen. But it does look like it is a strong possibility. And fans are desperate for Ruby to get the justice she deserves. 

    It may be the beginning of the storyline, but Beth Cordingly already deserves awards for her amazing performances.

    Whatever the outcome is, the storyline is definitely going to be heart-wrenching. And we’re sure there’s going to be plenty of drama when the truth comes out.

    Read more: Christmas in Emmerdale: returns, drama and a flashforward

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release at 7am on ITVX. 

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

    Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. Let us know your thoughts!

  • Emmerdale fans demand justice for Ruby after what happened to her is revealed

    Emmerdale fans demand justice for Ruby after what happened to her is revealed

    In Emmerdale Ruby has been trying to keep her father away from her from the moment he arrived in the village. But thanks to Steph, this hasn’t been easy.

    While many viewers predicted the plot-twist between the father and daughter, it was only confirmed that Ruby was sexually assaulted by Anthony as a child in last night’s heartbreakingly powerful episode.

    In another creatively filmed episode of the soap, it showed us flashbacks to Ruby’s 16th birthday, intertwined with present day storylines.

    Ruby looking sad / angry Emmerdale
    Emmerdale Ruby remembers her 16th birthday. (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale Ruby was sexually assaulted as a child – by her dad

    At the beginning of the episode it looked like Rob, a friend of Ruby’s, who her mother was trying to push her with, was going to be the one to do something sinister. But ultimately, Rob ended up being gay, and the culprit was indeed Ruby’s father.

    Anthony may just be one of – if not the – most evil characters that have ever featured on the show. Not only has he turned back up in Ruby’s life after all of these years, he is also already trying to insert himself too deeply into her relationships.

    He caught on to the tense moment between Ruby and Cain, working out they had slept together, and was quick to call her out for her behaviour.

    This isn’t the first time Emmerdale has tackled this sort of storyline. In 2016, there was a similar story with Aaron Dingle and his father, Gordon. But Ruby’s story has potential to be one of the darkest, if they go down certain routes.

    Anthony Emmerdale
    Anthony disgustingly comments on Ruby ‘sleeping around’. (Credit: ITV)

    Fans demand justice for Ruby

    But two thing remain agreed upon by the viewers; Beth Cordingly is performing the storyline amazingly, and that Ruby needs justice.

    Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) after the extremely powerful episode aired, fans expressed their thoughts.

    One wrote: “Poor Ruby. I hope she gets the justice she deserves after what her dad did to her.”

    Another added: “Ruby has become one of my favourite soap characters recently. I hope this story ends with her getting the justice she needs.”

    “This storyline is harrowing and is going to be tough to watch. I hope she is believed straight away and gets the support and justice she deserves,” a third penned.

    However one feared that Ruby’s storyline won’t end up with Anthony in prison. They wrote: “Is Anthony going to die before Ruby can get justice?”

    It’s a soap, so we can only assume the truth will inevitably come out. But the question remains; just how long? And will Ruby get her justice? Some fans even predict she may kill him..

    Read more: Christmas in Emmerdale: Joy, drama and a flashforward

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays at 6am and 6.30am. Plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm on ITV3. 

    Follow us on our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. 

  • Beth Cordingly deserves all the awards as emotional Emmerdale fans call tonight’s episode ‘incredible’ and ‘powerful’

    Beth Cordingly deserves all the awards as emotional Emmerdale fans call tonight’s episode ‘incredible’ and ‘powerful’

    Emmerdale aired powerful scenes during tonight’s episode, with emotional fans calling Beth Cordingly and her performance ‘outstanding’.

    Since the arrival of her estranged daughter and father, it’s been clear that Ruby Fox-Miligan has been holding something back. The truth was finally revealed in a special hour-long episode tonight (Thursday, December 12).

    The episode, which featured flashback scenes, has been described by viewers as ‘incredible’, while Beth, who plays Ruby, was singled out for praise.

    A photo triggered memories for Ruby (Credit: ITV)

    What happened to Ruby in Emmerdale?

    Since Ruby’s dad Anthony arrived in the village, viewers have been speculating about why Ruby hates him so much and tonight they got their answers.

    Prior to broadcast, Emmerdale shared a trigger warning and confirmed that Ruby was the victim of sexual abuse as a child. Tonight’s flashback scenes revealed just what happened.

    After Steph discovered a photo of her mum celebrating her 16th birthday, Ruby’s mind was taken back to that day in 1992.

    In the present day, oblivious Steph met up with her grandad, where she told him she was hopeful that he and her mum could repair their relationship.

    However, further flashbacks revealed why that might not be possible. As the episode went on, there were several triggers which took Ruby back to her 16th birthday – Cain’s birthday cake and Anthony telling Caleb Miligan that Ruby had been a hypochondriac when she was younger.

    In the present day, Ruby told her dad: “We both know exactly what happened on my 16th,” with the final flashback clearing everything up. Horrific scenes showed Anthony taking birthday cake to Ruby in her room. As he locked the door behind him, a distressed Ruby told him: “Please dad, I don’t feel very well.”

    Anthony responded: “You’ve always been a bit of a hypochondriac. You’ve been fine all day.” In a chilling moment, 16-year-old Ruby pleaded: “Please not again. Not today.”

    It was also revealed that Steph was conceived around that time, with Caleb implying he and Ruby had done the deed just a few days after Ruby’s 16th. Could Anthony be Steph’s father?

    Ruby, Caleb, Steph and Anthony on Emmerdale
    Ruby has struggled since Anthony arrived (Credit: ITV)

    Fans praise Beth Cordingly in Emmerdale

    Emmerdale viewers rushed to social media to praise the show and, in particular, star Beth Cordingly.

    Writing on X, one viewer said: “Beth Cordingly is absolutely outstanding in tonight’s @emmerdale. The storyline is very, very difficult to watch but a very important one to tell.”

    Another fan said: “Tonight’s #Emmerdale was incredible and powerful. Beth Cordingly is fantastic as Ruby.”

    “Beth Cordingly (Ruby) is just an incredible actress and the best thing to happen to Emmerdale. She’s awesome!” shared one more.

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    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 was right to do Ruby’s storyline, but it is a painful watch – OPINION

    Emmerdale was right to do Ruby’s storyline, but it is a painful watch – OPINION

    Emmerdale revealed the truth about Ruby and her relationship with her sinister father in tonight’s episode – and it was pretty shocking.

    In a series of flashbacks to Ruby’s 16th birthday viewers saw the reason for Ruby’s extreme reaction to her dad’s return to her life. It turned out poor Ruby was a victim of sexual violence by her father and suddenly her panic attacks and struggle to cope with her dad’s presence made sense.

    Ruby looks at an old photograph
    Ruby was thinking about her 16th birthday (Credit: ITV)

    Flashbacks to the past

    The episode was cleverly done – swapping between the Dingles gathering for Cain’s 50th celebrations and flashbacks to Ruby’s 16th birthday.

    At first, viewers were led to believe that Ruby’s old friend Rob could have been involved in her trauma. Anthony pointed him out in the photograph of the party and asked Ruby if she was sorry they’d lost touch.

    “He was one of the good ones,” Ruby commented.

    Terrified Ruby as a teenager was hurt by her father (Credit: ITV)
    Terrified Ruby as a teenager was hurt by her father (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale Ruby was struggling

    As the episode went on, it was clear Ruby was struggling. Despite her slapping on a brave face and forcing herself along to Cain’s party, it was obvious she wasn’t comfortable.

    And when the flashbacks revealed more, we could see why. It turned out, Rob was gay and only a friend to Ruby. It was Anthony who was the real predator.

    In the present day, he clocked the tension between Cain and Ruby, and realised what had happened, making barbed comments to his distressed daughter.

    The flashback was even more upsetting as after the party, Anthony came into Ruby’s bedroom and told her that her mum – Helen – had gone round to a friend’s.

    Clearly frightened, Ruby begged her father not to do it again as he came towards her…

    Ruby hyperventilating outside on Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Composite: EI)
    Ruby’s clearly not doing well (Credit: ITV/Composite: EI)

    A dark twist

    Back in the present day, there was a grim moment as Anthony toasted Steph and told Caleb very pointedly that he was lucky Steph was his daughter. WHAT did he mean by that? Is he Steph’s father?

    This storyline is one of the darkest in Emmerdale’s history – and if it turns Anthony is both Steph’s grandfather and father, then it’s unprecedented in soap.

    There have been family sexual abuse stories in soaps before, going right back to Brookside’s Beth Jordache’s ordeal at the hands of father Trevor, and Mandy Richardson in Hollyoaks being abused by her dad, Dennis.

    Since then we’ve seen Emmerdale’s Aaron Dingle face his abusive dad Gordon in court, and Paul Foreman deal with his grooming by his stepdad Kel Hinchley in Coronation Street.

    Plus Hollyoaks recently tackled sibling sexual abuse with JJ and Frankie.

    But it feels like Emmerdale is breaking new ground with this story.

    Ruby, Caleb, Steph and Anthony on Emmerdale
    Ruby wasn’t happy to see her dad (Credit: ITV)

    A tricky one for Emmerdale to tackle – and for Ruby

    There is no doubt that Beth Cordingly, who plays Ruby, and Nicholas Day, AKA Anthony, have the acting chops to pull this storyline off.

    Beth Cordingly has already made us so invested in Ruby’s past – brilliantly portraying her alter ego as damaged and vulnerable as well as brash and confident.

    And yet – there’s something about this storyline that leaves us a little uncomfortable.

    We’ve been watching soaps for a long time. We know they handle tricky topics sensitively and carefully, and play a huge role in raising awareness and sharing messages.

    Emmerdale in particular has managed to pull off huge stunts, shocking stories and dramatic confrontations before the watershed.

    But in this case, this storyline is very grim, very dark, and possibly more suited to a late-night gritty drama than primetime soap.

    We’ve got faith in Emmerdale’s writers, actors and crew but this will be a tricky story to get right. We’ll wait and see what happens next.

    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

  • Ruby will kill her dad, new fan theory predicts

    Ruby will kill her dad, new fan theory predicts

    Fans of Emmerdale have predicted a murderous twist to the story of Ruby Fox-Miligan and her dad. This comes as the soap prepares to reveal exactly what Anthony did to Ruby on her sixteenth birthday, resulting in all those years of trauma and misery.

    Ruby is clearly struggling with her estranged father being back on the scene, especially given how quickly he seems to have wriggled his way back into her life.

    Anthony was in a particularly smug mood last night as he offered a weak apology for meddling in Caleb and Ruby’s affairs. And, as he showed up at the house, Steph even managed to score him an invite to Cain’s birthday party. Forced to play nice, Ruby swallowed her obvious pain in the face of Anthony’s smugness.

    And, as Ruby’s situation continues to worsen, one fan has wondered whether Ruby might kill her father.

    A smug Anthony points in Ruby's face on Emmerdale
    Anthony continues to haunt Ruby (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale fan predicts that Ruby will kill her dad

    Writing on X as last night’s scenes aired, one fan wondered whether Ruby might snap and kill Anthony.

    “Ruby killing Antony?” this viewer suggested.

    But if not Ruby, others were still hopeful that Anthony might meet his end before too long.

    “I hope Anthony dies a slow and painful death and hopefully at Caleb’s hands,” said another, reacting to the confirmation that Anthony had indeed abused his daughter as a teenager.

    “Anthony, be warned, your past will catch up with you,” another said.

    Ruby looks upset as she looks at a photo on Emmerdale
    Ruby continues to reckon with her harrowing past (Credit: ITV)

    The truth is revealed in flashback to Ruby’s 16th

    In scenes airing tonight, the truth about Anthony’s evil will be revealed during a series of flashbacks to Ruby’s sixteenth birthday party.

    In the difficult episode, the soap reveals that Ruby was the victim of sexual abuse by her father as a teenager.

    Although the scenes are not graphic, Emmerdale issued a warning to viewers on social media.

    The message read: “In tomorrow’s episode (Thursday 12th), Emmerdale will contain references to sexual violence that viewers could find distressing.” It was accompanied by a website link where viewers could seek advice.”

    Fans have praised the soap for its sensitivity in providing a trigger warning for this terrible subject matter.

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GylnghxtTWw?si=VlMP5KeCP-1ua7lG]

    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

  • Cain and Ruby affair is undermining ‘important’ brain tumour storyline, fans say

    Cain and Ruby affair is undermining ‘important’ brain tumour storyline, fans say

    Emmerdale fans have bemoaned a recent episode that saw Cain cheat on wife Moira with Ruby, saying it undermines the brain tumour storyline.

    Recent scenes have seen Cain Dingle feel overwhelmed with guilt over what he has done, and he has been avoiding spending time with his wife while she recovers from brain surgery.

    But Emmerdale viewers aren’t happy with this latest development as it takes focus away from Moira’s important brain tumour story.

    Cain and Ruby kiss
    Viewers are not happy about Cain and Ruby’s fling (Credit: ITV)

    Cain cheats on Moira with Ruby

    Last month, while Moira was undergoing surgery for a brain tumour, Cain cheated on her with his sister-in-law Ruby Fox-Miligan.

    The fling took place during a special episode which saw Moira dream of her dead daughter Holly Barton. In the same episode, Cain’s story was told in reverse chronological order.

    Viewers first saw him with bloodied hands while drinking whiskey. As the clock went back further, viewers were shocked when Cain and Ruby were shown putting their clothes on.

    Cain has been struggling with guilt ever since, and has been determined to keep himself busy in order to avoid spending time with his wife.

    Earlier this week, while Moira recovered at home, Cain pretended he had to pick a car up in Dudley. He then lied that he was stuck there all night and instead spent the night parked up nearby in his van.

    The following day he got himself arrested and thus wasn’t there when Moira got her test results.

    Cain has been feeling guilty for cheating on Moira (Credit: ITV)

    Fans angry at Emmerdale storyline

    Viewers have already shared their frustration at the cheating storyline, but now some fans have pointed out that Cain and Ruby’s fling has undermined Moira’s brain tumour story.

    Writing on Instagram, one viewer said: “I wish they never had that Ruby and Cain twist during Moira’s special episode. Very insensitive.” While another fan wrote: “Just completely the wrong story line here Emmerdale… you got this one wrong.”

    Over on X, a third fan said: “Cain and Ruby is a ridiculous storyline. It’s completely overshadowed Moria’s and Ruby’s struggles.”

    A fourth viewer added: “What have you done to Cain’s character more like?! It was such an important storyline, most people have forgot Moira’s symptoms by now.”

    Another fan agreed, writing: “This went from unbelievable to unrealistic. Both actors deserve better especially Natalie, props to her making such an important storyline believable, even with the mess the writers made.” While a sixth viewer agreed, adding: “Having Cain sleep with Ruby for this nonsense was a ridiculous storyline decision.”

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    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 praised for trigger warning ahead of tonight’s episode by grateful fans

    Emmerdale praised for trigger warning ahead of tonight’s episode by grateful fans

    Emmerdale will air difficult scenes involving Ruby Fox-Miligan in Thursday’s hour-long episode and fans have praised the soap for the trigger warning ahead of its broadcast.

    Ruby has been a main fixture in the Dales for almost a year, but since the arrival of her estranged daughter and father last month, it’s been clear that she has been suppressing something.

    In tonight’s episode (Thursday, December 12), special flashback scenes will reveal all.

    A photo triggers Ruby’s memory (Credit: ITV)

    What is Ruby hiding?

    Ruby arrived in Emmerdale at the start of the year and has spent most of her time causing chaos. First she outed her husband’s affair with Tracy and then she run Ethan over in her car. She also teamed up with Rose in a plot to take down Kim Tate.

    More recently, viewers have seen a softer side to Ruby. Last month, Ruby’s estranged daughter Steph arrived. She was soon followed by Ruby’s dad Anthony, who hasn’t won over viewers with his behaviour so far.

    While Ruby and Steph have managed to make amends, Ruby is finding it more difficult to bond with her father. Steph has been pushing for them all to play happy families, but Ruby has been struggling with the idea – instead preferring to crack open another bottle of wine.

    Ruby’s tragic past will be revealed in Thursday’s episode, with Emmerdale confirming she was the victim of sexual abuse as a child. Although the scenes are not graphic, Emmerdale issued a warning to viewers on social media.

    The message read: “In tomorrow’s episode (Thursday 12th), Emmerdale will contain references to sexual violence that viewers could find distressing.” It was accompanied by a website link where viewers could seek advice.

    Steph wanted proof of Anthony's cancer diagnosis
    Ruby has struggled to play happy families (Credit: ITV)

    Fans praise Emmerdale warning

    Fans have been speculating about what Ruby has been hiding and have now praised the soap for the advance warning, with one fan on X tagging another soap and writing: “take note.”

    A second fan simply wrote: “Thank you for the warning,” with a heart emoji. On Instagram, another viewer said: “Thank you for this Emmerdale. Not enough shows give warnings for this.”

    A fourth viewer expressed their gratitude and wrote: “Thank you for the trigger warning, it is much appreciated.”

    A fifth fan replied to the message with: “I absolutely love Emmerdale for this.”

    Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

    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