Category: News

  • 4 Emmerdale romances that NEED to happen

    4 Emmerdale romances that NEED to happen

    It’s fair to say that the Dales have seen their fair share of couples get together and split up over the years…

    Some couples have stood the test of time whilst others have fallen at the first hurdle.

    Here’s four pairings we’d love to see get together in Emmerdale village!

    Emmerdale's Belle and Vinny are talking outside
    Belle and Vinny are best mates (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale romances: 1. Belle and Vinny

    Belle and Vinny have always been close. They’ve been there for each other (as friends) through thick and thin.

    Vinny’s currently supporting Belle as she struggles to come to terms with Tom’s abuse of her. Despite Tom causing trouble for their friendship in the past, this pair will always return to each other’s side in the end.

    Let’s be honest, Vinny and Gabby really don’t make for a perfect match. Gabby isn’t known for her compassion after all…

    But, Vinny and Belle? They already have a great bond going. So, here’s to hoping they develop a romantic connection in the near future. Maybe, let’s just give Belle some time to breathe before jumping into another relationship though.

    Emmerdale's Manpreet is talking to Liam
    Manpreet and Liam are colleagues (Credit: ITV)

    2. Manpreet and Liam

    Liam’s had flings and relationships with a fair few women in the village, but he’s yet to cross that boundary with colleague and friend, Manpreet.

    Manpreet and Liam actually have a lot in common (with serial killer Meena unfortunately being a topic they both know all too well.)

    Perhaps Liam might find it a little icky to start dating the sister of his daughter’s killer. But, if he just puts that factor (okay, very big factor) aside for a moment, he could well find that his good friendship with Manpreet could turn into something more! And, we’d totally ship them!

    Emmerdale's Mack and Aaron are laughing together outside
    Bromance to romance? (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale romances: 3. Mack and Aaron

    Aaron’s currently having a fling with John Sugden (yes, the half-brother of Robert Sugden – awks!)

    But, it’s no secret that Mack’s been feeling jealous over John getting in the way of his bromance with Aaron.

    Mack’s childish feud with John could all be explained though… you know, as jealousy? Perhaps, Mack only has a vendetta against John because he wants Aaron all to himself.

    If Mack was to suddenly confess his secret feelings for Aaron, we’d be all for it!

    Emmerdale's Vanessa and Charity are kissing
    Vanity reboot? (Credit: ITV)

    4. Charity and Vanessa

    As we’re shipping Mack and Aaron together, that means that Mack will have to ditch Charity…

    So, shall we just all rewind back to the 2019 era when we were all at peak Vanity era? Life was rather sweet back then before Charity and Vanessa split in 2020 (we’re still not over it, can you tell?)

    Vanessa and Charity had way more chemistry than Mack and Charity. Vanessa actually cared about Charity whereas Mack only really proves to prioritise himself over his marriage time and time again. We certainly wouldn’t be opposed to a Vanity reunion!

    Read more: 8 Reasons Emmerdale totally deserved their NTA win

    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!

  • Review of the week: Moira’s in danger, in hospital, and making friends with Ruby!

    Review of the week: Moira’s in danger, in hospital, and making friends with Ruby!

    This week our Emmerdale review is hot, hot, hot! Just like Moira’s barn, which exploded with Moira and Cain inside – it was dramatic stuff.

    And finally we found out what’s been going on with poor Mrs Dingle’s health. Here’s what we thought of all the action in our Emmerdale review.

    Emmerdale barn is on fire
    The barn exploded! (Credit: ITV/ Composite EI)

    The barn explosion

    We have never been fans of big stunts in soap. They have their place and sometimes they work so brilliantly we talk about them for years (yes, we are still going on about the Hotton By-pass crash, so what?). But you can have too much of a good thing. So exciting and dramatic as the barn blowing up was, it was the other stuff around it we liked best this week.

    Moira Dingle and Ruby Fox-Miligan are trapped inside the burning barn at Butlers in Emmerdale
    Moira zoned out just at the wrong time (Credit: ITV)

    Moira’s health crisis

    Never were the stakes higher than when Ruby was out cold and Moira had to get her out of the burning barn – only to have another absent moment. As Moira zoned out, the tension was ramping up. What a cliffhanger! It was great soapy telly.

    And the reveal that Moira has a mass on her brain that has been causing her odd behaviour, and her reconciliation with Cain (which is frankly more than he deserves, in our opinion though he did save Moira’s life so we’ll let him off), was heart-wrenching and emotional. We really hope Moira gets through this!

    Moira and Cain trapped in the barn fire on Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/EI)
    Cain saved Moira’s life but we’re still not happy with the way he’s been treating her! (Credit: ITV/EI)

    Moira and Ruby

    We’ve wanted Moira and Ruby to be friends since Ruby first arrived in the village and there was a little moment this week where we thought it could happen! Ruby went to visit Moira in hospital and they both apologised – sort of – for their past behaviour. It was understated and a little bit funny and we loved it.

    Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle
    This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship (Credit: ITV)

    Mack’s still invincible in our Emmerdale review

    Mackenzie Boyd is like Emmerdale’s answer to Wolverine – he’s survived a clifftop plunge in his car, a stabbing, being held at gunpoint, the fire in the maize maze, and being chased by a bull. And now he’s dived into the blazing barn and rescued Ruby, too. Is there nothing this man can’t handle? Because actually it’s getting a bit boring now.

    Mack and John Sugden fight their way through the flames in Emmerdale
    Mack’s invincible and John’s starting to grow on us (Credit: ITV)

    John’s making his mark

    The other hero of the fire was, without a doubt, John Sugden. Not only did he battle the flames alongside Mack, he swung into action and revealed he’d been an Army medic. So in this Emmerdale review we’d like to confirm that he’s definitely growing on us.

    Cain Dingle punches Nate Robinson and leaves him lying on the sofa in Emmerdale
    Surely this isn’t how Nate’s story ends? (Credit: ITV)

    Where’s Nate?

    Nate’s exit was well, a bit unfair. After getting a beating from his furious dad, Cain, Nate tried to say goodbye to daughter Frankie, only for Tracy to send him packing. Though Tracy did eventually relent and let Nate say a tearful farewell to his little girl.

    Later, Nate told John what had happened, explaining that Moira had thrown herself at him. And he said he had nothing to be ashamed of – he wasn’t going to run away like he was guilty. Instead, he said he was going to see Moira, though John seemed to talk him out of it.

    We can’t help wondering, though, if Nate did go to find Moira after all. Could he be an unexpected victim of the barn fire?  It’s weird to hope that someone dies, but we feel his exit would be just too mean if there isn’t a twist!

    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!

  • ‘I’ve made friends for life at Emmerdale’ Jurell Carter spills the beans on Nate’s exit

    ‘I’ve made friends for life at Emmerdale’ Jurell Carter spills the beans on Nate’s exit

    So it looks like Nate Robinson has waved goodbye to Emmerdale, and frankly, we don’t blame him! Poor Nate was humiliated by Tracy’s affair with Caleb. Then just as it seemed they were about to make a go of things – disaster! Caleb spotted Nate and Moira hugging, got the wrong end of the stick, and everything fell apart.

    Caleb told Cain what he thought he saw. And of course, Cain stormed off to confront his son – and give him a proper beating.

    Nate Robinson is confronted by Cain Dingle in Emmerdale
    Cain’s been suspicious of Nate (Credit: ITV)

    Devastation for Nate in Emmerdale

    We sat down with Jurell Carter, who plays Nate, to find all about how he leaves Emmerdale – forever!

    “I think he’s just devastated,” says Jurell. “All he’s ever wanted is a relationship with his father. For Cain to get the wrong idea… He’s just devastated and heartbroken.”

    Cain’s reaction isn’t entirely shocking, given that Nate did once have an affair with Moira, but Jurell says that was a long time ago.

    “That Cain even believes Nate would do such a thing, that he’s taken their relationship back to square one, leaves Nate heartbroken,” he says.

    Cain Dingle and Tracy Robinson confront Nate Robinson in Emmerdale
    Things kick off between Nate and Cain (Credit: ITV)

    Confrontation!

    The confrontation between father and son, was brutal and shocking – so how was it to film?

    “We had a fight arranger because obviously Cain lays into Nate, and Nate doesn’t fight back,” Jurell tells us. “The fight was amazing to do but from Nate’s perspective it’s heartbreaking, going down that road again.”

    The fight means Nate’s decision to leave was an easy one – though a big one.

    “It’s huge for him but family is massive for Nate. This is a pivotal moment in terms of Nate going forward and his decision leaving everyone behind. It isn’t what he wanted to do, but he’s been left with no choice.”

    Cain Dingle lashes out while Tracy Robinson watches on in horror in Emmerdale
    Nate doesn’t fight back (Credit: ITV)

    Sad farewell for Nate in Emmerdale

    It’s a sad ending for Nate because he’s the wronged party. So is he angry about what’s happened? Or is he more sad?

    “I think it’s a mixture,” Jurell muses. “I just think he feels helpless in a way because he’s trying to convince Cain and Tracy that Moira came onto him. Obviously no-one’s really believing him and they’re shutting him out.”

    So Nate’s off – and that means Jurell is too. Is he sad to be going?

    “The character of Nate and myself share a mindset of wanting to go on to a next chapter, but also just being emotional and sad over leaving everything behind,” says Jurell. “That’s how I feel as an actor, in terms of leaving a show that I love.”

    Nate and Cain fight on the boat
    Nate and Cain fight on the boat

    Happy memories

    After five years on the show, he must have some happy memories. So what was Jurell’s favourite storyline?

    “I will never forget the massive fallout [of Nate and Moira’s affair] with all the boat stunts, for so many reasons – just how intense, dramatic and there was so much adrenaline rushing through that whole week.”

    But will Jurell keep up with the action on-screen?

    “Of course. It’s going to be weird because at the minute it feels like I’ve just got some time off and I’m going back soon. But knowing that I’m not, it’s such a weird feeling. I’m definitely going to be watching and supporting because I’ve made friends for life with the cast, so it’s special.”

    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!

  • With the fate of Nate under intense speculation, fans predict John killed him

    With the fate of Nate under intense speculation, fans predict John killed him

    Fans of Emmerdale have concocted a new theory as to what could have happened to ‘missing’ Nate Robinson… and it has nothing to do with either the Shetlands or a barn fire.

    Nate was conspicuously absent from last night’s episode, in which the village reacted to news of a devastating barn explosion which left Moira and Ruby hospitalised.

    Last we saw him, Nate was seen talking to John – and insisted that he didn’t plan on leaving the village quietly. Either he had a very abrupt change of mind, or something terrible has happened…

    Where is Nate?

    This was the last time anyone saw Nate - when he was talking John (Credit: ITV)
    Nate was last seen talking to John on Monday (Credit: ITV)

    Nate disappears following barn explosion

    Supposedly on his way to start a new job in the Shetlands, Nate was nowhere to be found. And he wasn’t reachable via phone either, in spite of Tracy’s best efforts.

    The heavy-handed foreshadowing combined with Nate‘s lack of screen time led some to speculate that he might have snuck into the barn and then become trapped there during the fire and subsequent explosion.

    However, others had an even darker theory, and one which suggests he could have been victim of murder most foul…

    John reacts
    Little is known about mysterious John Sugden (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale fans predict John Sugden to have killed Nate

    As the episode aired, fans shared their theory regarding Nate’s fate. And, in addition to all of the speculation about the barn, some wondered whether a murderous John might be responsible…

    “Could it be that John had something to do with Nate’s death? That he has discovered John is not who he said he is?” wondered one fan.

    “Some reason I think that John has killed Nate because Nate said to him on Monday he’s going to stay and fight for what he’s got and today he said to Tracy he left to go to Scotland and the way he closed the van door when he seen her felt suspicious,” another speculated.

    “Where is Nate?! I thought we would find out in this episode every time Nate was mentioned. Is it just me or is he in John’s campervan?” asked a third.

    Has John killed Nate?

    Read more: Does Cain die in Emmerdale? All the reasons we think he’ll survive

    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!

  • ‘They are laying it on with a trowel,’ say fans as soap unsubtly ‘teases Nate is dead’

    ‘They are laying it on with a trowel,’ say fans as soap unsubtly ‘teases Nate is dead’

    Nate Robinson is the talk of the town on Emmerdale at the moment. Even in the aftermath of a devastating barn explosion, all anyone can talk about is missing Nate.

    Last we heard, Nate was headed to Shetland in disgrace, having been accused of kissing Moira. His supposed betrayal earned him a beating from dad Cain – who then disowned him – and Tracy throwing him out on his ear.

    Cain Dingle punches Nate Robinson while Tracy Robinson watches on in horror in Emmerdale
    It’s been a rough week for Nate, who copped a beating from his dad (Credit: ITV)

    Last night’s episode revealed that it had actually been a mass on her brain which caused Moira to make a pass at Nate – resulting in Caleb’s misunderstanding after stumbling across the scene at the barn.

    Nate’s name is about to be cleared, but is it too late?

    Nate Robinson is confronted by Cain Dingle in Emmerdale
    Nate was pointedly absent from last night’s episode (Credit: ITV)

    Fans accuse Emmerdale of heavy-handed foreshadowing in Nate disappearance

    As last night’s episode aired, both Tracy and Cain expressed regret in their treatment of Nate. Tracy was particularly horrified at how she’d treated him, wondering whether she should have listened to his protestations of innocence.

    As she confided in Vanessa, Tracy was reassured that Nate wouldn’t be out of their lives for good; with Vanessa insisting that Nate would  always have a place in their child’s life.

    “Been way too much Tracy and Vanessa time talking about Nate and relationships for Nate to have survived. Deffo an omen that he became crispy duck,” said one fan on X.

    “There was a lot of foreshadowing of death towards Nate tonight,” another said.

    “Oh no, there were so many clues that Nate really is dead,” a third pointed out, over on Reddit.

    “They are laying it on with a trowel,” a fourth agreed.

    Meanwhile, in the hospital, Cain shared his regret with Caleb over how he had treated Nate. Phone in hand, he prepared to give his son a call.

    Is it too late for Nate?

    Read more: What happened in Emmerdale tonight: We finally know what’s wrong with Moira as she and Cain make it out alive – but where is Nate?

    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!

  • Guess who’s coming home for Christmas: All the theories as Iain MacLeod teases ‘huge’ arrival

    Guess who’s coming home for Christmas: All the theories as Iain MacLeod teases ‘huge’ arrival

    Emmerdale boss Iain MacLeod has teased a shock arrival is on the way this Christmas – and is sure to shake things up for the village residents.

    Speaking to The Sun at the National Television Awards this week, the head honcho revealed that big plans were underway for this Christmas in the Dales.

    “This Christmas there is a huge surprise arrival on Christmas Day. As well as some life or death jeopardy on Christmas Day but obviously there will be festive brilliance as we do every year but I think it is one of the most exciting Christmases that I can remember on Emmerdale this year!” he announced.

    But who is on their way to set the cat among the pigeons? Writing on a Reddit thread, viewers had their theories.

    Here’s who’s likely to be headed to the Dales this year.

    Robert and Aaron on Emmerdale
    How might Robert react to the news that Aaron has moved on… to his brother (Credit: ITV/YouTube)

    Robert Sugden

    “Robert Sugden. He would cause a lot of trouble for his brother and ex partner,” one fan theorised. With Robert currently in prison, his now-ex husband Aaron is currently in a steamy situationship with Robert’s apparent half-brother, John Sudgen.

    A surprise return from Robert would certainly throw their fledgling relationship into chaos.

    Andy Sugden on Emmerdale
    Fans have been eagerly awaiting Andy’s return (Credit: ITV/YouTube) 

    Andy Sugden

    With John recently having arrived in the village, the Sugden name is on everyone’s lips at the moment. And, if the soap were looking to build the ranks of the once-mighty family again, they could do far worse than bringing back Jack’s adoptive son, Andy.

    “I would love for it to be a Sudgen or Merrick returning. Robert would be my choice, but I would be happy with Andy, Diane or even Kathy. It would tie in well with John’s entrance and help establish the Sugdens back into the show,” another viewer suggested.

    Debbie Dingle
    Debbie’s currently in Scotland (Credit: ITV/YouTube)

    Debbie Dingle

    In a sad real-life twist, last year saw the death of Emmerdale legend Steve Haliwell, who played Zak Dingle on the soap. With news of the character’s death yet to pass, there’s a Dingle funeral on the cards – leading many to think that Debbie Dingle could make her long-awaited return.

    “Debbie Dingle? Maybe for Zak’s funeral. Who knows,” a third wondered.

    “For some odd reason I have a sinking feeling Debbie is coming back,” concurred another.

    Caleb looks worried behind Ruby as she looks down in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
    Who’s Caleb and Ruby’s other child? (Credit: ITV/YouTube)

    Caleb and Ruby’s daughter

    Upon their arrival, it was briefly alluded to that Caleb and Ruby had not one but two children together – son Nicky, and a daughter too. With this news hanging over everyone’s heads, it’s only a matter of time before she shows up looking for mum and dad.

    “Maybe it’s the once mentioned sister of Nicky that was never mentioned again,” theorised one viewer.

    Emmerdale's Piper is wearing a cone
    Piper’s alive! (Credit: ITV/YouTube)

    Piper

    Terrible Tom made Belle think that her beloved pup Piper had been killed when he euthanised her after deliberately running her over. However, it was revealed that he’d actually faked her death and given her away.

    “I hope Piper comes back – Tom forgot to change the details on the microchip and another vet calls Belle,” a fan suggested.

    Tom puts his arm around Amelia at the bus stop on Emmerdale
    Amelia is among the names mooted for a possible pregnancy (Credit: ITV/YouTube)

    Surprise baby!

    Many have theorised that this so-called ‘arrival’ could actually be a baby. Although no-one is expecting at the moment, we wouldn’t put it past the soap to spring a surprise pregnancy on one of the characters.

    But who?

    “Could be a surprise pregnancy, maybe Charity or Leyla?” wondered one fan.

    “Or Belle… just when it’s all over and Tom sods off, Belle realises she’s having a hidden pregnancy,” said another.

    “Maybe Amelia finds out she’s expecting it with Tom and announces it at Christmas,” a third theorised.

    Who would you like to see make a Christmassy appearance this year?

    Read more: Is Moira leaving Emmerdale? As show confirms brain tumour diagnosis, here’s everything we know

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAJzIdMf8L4?si=HjBJNKBzvC8U0YSv]

    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!

  • Is Moira leaving Emmerdale? As show confirms brain tumour diagnosis, here’s everything we know

    Is Moira leaving Emmerdale? As show confirms brain tumour diagnosis, here’s everything we know

    Tonight’s episode of Emmerdale (Friday September 13) will see the heartbreaking moment that Moira Dingle is diagnosed with a brain tumour. Moira and Cain learned last night that a ‘mass’ on her brain was behind her recent erratic behaviour – leaving them both terrified for her future.

    Moira’s ill health had led to her attempting to kiss Nate, headbutting Ruby, and even hallucinating a confrontation with old enemy Emma Barton. In her confusion, Moira let off a gunshot which sparked this week’s barn fire-turned-explosion, putting multiple lives in danger.

    The symptoms continued during the aftermath of the fire, as Moira suffered a seizure while talking to dubious husband Cain.

    ,Moira looks upset as she talks to a doctor on Emmerdale
    Moira learned the reason for her sudden change in personality last night (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale tonight: Moira diagnosed with a brain tumour

    After a quick scan, Moira’s doctor revealed that they had found a mass on her brain. And, as the storyline continues, Moira will be diagnosed with a brain tumour.

    In tonight’s episode, Moira discovers that she has a type of brain tumour called a meningioma. This is why she has been suffering from the symptoms which led to her sudden change in personality. It is also responsible for the confusion, memory loss… and the seizure she also suffered last night.

    While non cancerous, the tumour leaves Moira terrified for her future and apprehensive about its treatment.

    Emmerdale worked closely with the charities Brains Trust and The Brain Tumour Charity while devising the storyline. They will continue to support the production team to give Moira’s story a realistic and authentic depiction.

    Moira looks stressed at home on Emmerdale
    Moira is played by actor Natalie J. Robb (Credit: ITV)

    Natalie J. Robb reveals ‘challenging time ahead’ for Moira

    Speaking on the storyline, actor Natalie J. Robb said: “I feel really fortunate to be trusted with such a challenging storyline. Moira and her family have an extremely challenging time ahead, and I’m hoping I can portray it in a truthful way that does justice to all the people who are really suffering with a brain tumour.”

    Meanwhile, Emmerdale Producer Sophie Roper said: “Moira’s diagnosis comes as a huge shock to both her and her family and Moira faces an emotional and challenging time ahead.”

    She continued: “The research and support we’ve received throughout this storyline has allowed us to depict the realities of the condition and though at times it may be distressing to see the symptoms Moira’s experiencing, we’re keen to explore the hope and resilience Moira finds as she comes to terms with her diagnosis.”

    So it doesn’t sound like she’s leaving for now as the storyline has a long way to go. Can Moira come through this?

    Read more: Fans slam laid-back Mack for barn fire reaction: ‘He couldn’t sound less concerned’

    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!

  • 8 reasons Emmerdale totally deserved their NTA win

    8 reasons Emmerdale totally deserved their NTA win

    Emmerdale won big at the National Television Awards last night, scoring the Serial Drama prize. In doing so, the soap regained its crown after being beaten by BBC competitor EastEnders last year.

    At last night’s ceremony, it was announced that the general public had voted for Emmerdale to win.

    Here are the 8 big reasons we think it’s a well-deserved win for Emmerdale.

    Belle stands up to Tom as he tries to manipulate her
    It’s been hard to watch, but Belle and Tom’s story has been one of the soap’s strongest (Credit: ITV)

    1. Strong storylines

    This year’s Emmerdale has largely been consumed by the horrifying saga of Belle Dingle‘s abusive marriage to Tom King. Once he’d fooled her into saying ‘I do’ with his nice guy act, Tom let the mask drop, and embarked on a horrific campaign of coercive control which left Belle at his mercy – and questioning everything she thought she knew about her marriage.

    Ruby stares Kim Tate down in Emmerdale spoilers
    This year saw the arrival of Beth Cordingly as Ruby (Credit: ITV)

    2. Great characters

    Love or hate them, Emmerdale has some of the best characters on television at the moment – both new and established. One of the recent additions that viewers love to hate is Ruby Fox-Miligan, who quickly set the cat among the pigeons following her arrival in the village. In doing so, she has clashed with Kim Tate and Moira Dingle – earning a signature ‘Glasgow kiss’ from the latter last week.

    Meanwhile, John Sugden has sparked countless fan theories since his arrival last month, quickly getting hot and steamy with Aaron Dingle.

    Traumatised Belle Dingle has a choice to make in Emmerdale
    Belle Dingle star Eden Taylor-Draper has been a powerhouse this year (Credit: ITV)

    3. Excellent performances

    Fans have hailed Eden Taylor-Draper‘s performance as one of the best the soap has ever seen. At the heart of Tom and Belle’s story,  the star has taken it all in her stride. She lost out to Coronation Street’s Peter Ash (who played the late Paul Foreman) in winning a trophy for her performance, but Eden deserves all of the awards for having to put up with Tom King’s vile abuse.

    And, talking of, we may hate terrible Tom, but there’s no denying that James Chase has done excellent work in making his character the most slappable soap villain of 2024.

    Belle imagined her future (Credit: ITV)
    A recent episode explored Belle’s emotional distress (Credit: ITV)

    4. Inventive direction

    The soap has gotten experimental in recent weeks; Moira experiencing hallucinations of old foe Emma Barton; an episode from Belle’s perspective which followed her as she explored potential futures with husband Tom. It’s thinking outside of the box and we love it.

    Emmerdale's barn is on fire
    The barn is on fire (Credit: ITV/ Composite EI)

    5. Explosive action

    While its cast were busy winning an award for the soap, Emmerdale aired one of the most explosive scenes of the year so far. With Moira and Ruby trapped in a burning barn, a devastating explosion rocked the farm – leaving two beloved characters potentially dead.

    As Cain, Mack and John raced to rescue Moira and Ruby from the deadly inferno, viewers were left on the edge of their seats. Boom.

    Belle looks confused and upset as Charity worries about her in Emmerdale tonight
    Belle opened up to Charity about her abuse (Credit: ITV)

    6. Powerful writing

    Yes, it’s Belle and Tom again, but the soap deserves all the kudos for Belle and Charity’s big conversation – during which she outlined exactly what her husband had been up to. Viewers’ hearts broke afresh as Belle finally confided in Charity, putting all of that pain and self-doubt into words.

    And then it did it all over again the next day, once Cain learned what Tom had been doing. Defying expectation, Cain stormed off as Charity revealed the truth – only to turn up on Belle’s doorstep to envelop his little sister in a big, comforting hug. Devastatingly observed by the soap writers.

    Mandy hoicks up her wedding dress in Emmerdale spoilers as she runs through the village determined.
    Mandy brought the laughs with her wedding (Credit: ITV)

    7. Heartwarming comedy

    If the scenes of dogs being run over, Moira losing her marbles and Tom being an all-around evil monster were too much, Emmerdale can still be relied upon to bring the humour. And this year it’s been Mandy’s turn to bring the comedy. Embarking on a get-rich scheme, Mandy became a Financial Dominatrix for dosh. Her marriage to Paddy was in doubt for a while, but it all came good in the end.

    Piper the dog on Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Emmerdale Insider)
    What a good pup! (Credit: ITV/Emmerdale Insider)

    8. Piper the dog

    If there’s one thing Emmerdale has that the other soaps don’t, it’s Piper the dog. ‘Nuff said.

    Read more: Does Cain die in Emmerdale? All the reasons we think he’ll survive

    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!

  • ‘Tom has a point’ say fans as he’s fired by Vanessa and Rhona

    ‘Tom has a point’ say fans as he’s fired by Vanessa and Rhona

    The news is out about Tom King – and the residents of Emmerdale have begun to react to the revelation that they have an abuser in their midst.

    Belle came clean to Charity about the months of abuse she’d endured at Tom’s hands in recent months – and she was believed without hesitation. Next up, Cain, who resisted the urge to give Tom the beating of his life to lend Belle his unyielding support also.

    But would Belle’s friends and neighbours be so quick to believe Belle’s claims?

    As it happened, yes. Gullible Jimmy King and Amelia Spencer aside, everyone who has found out so far believes Belle – including Tom’s employers, Rhona and Vanessa.

    Rhona and Belle look at Tom in the vet's on Emmerdale
    Rhona has clashed with Tom at work before (Credit: ITV)

    Angry Rhona fires abusive Tom

    As they discussed Belle’s claims, Rhona reminded Vanessa of the awkward dinner party they’d attended a few months ago. It was obvious to Rhona that Tom has been abusing Belle – and she kicked herself for not noticing the signs sooner.

    Tom was in for a rude awakening as he arrived at work. Rhona told him that she wanted him gone, and fired him on the spot.

    Visibly shaken, Tom warned her that an unfair dismissal lawsuit could land the vet’s surgery in trouble. But is Tom right?

    Tom's dinner party on Emmerdale
    Rhona remembered Tom’s disastrous dinner party (Credit: ITV)

    ‘Tom is right,’ warn Emmerdale fans

    As the episode aired, fans took to social media to share their thoughts on Tom’s firing. And a few worried that Tom might be right in his threats to sue Rhona and the surgery.

    “Tom has a point, unfair dismissal will get him pennies!” wrote one fan.

    “He’ll sue for unfair dismissal now or something like that 🙄” said another.

    “I was glad to see Rhona and Ness having Belle’s back and firing Tom, but I can definitely see him going down the unfair dismissal route…” suggested a third.

    However, another pointed out that Tom may not have a leg to stand on after all. “IIRC in real life, you can only claim unfair dismissal after 2 years service. I feel like they saying he’s only been there 16 months was very much on purpose!”

    Phew!

    Is Tom out on his ear?

    Read more: Does Cain die in Emmerdale? All the reasons we think he’ll survive

    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!

  • Fans slam laid-back Mack for barn fire reaction: ‘he couldn’t sound less concerned’

    Fans slam laid-back Mack for barn fire reaction: ‘he couldn’t sound less concerned’

    Fans of Emmerdale have called out chilled Mack Boyd for his entirely underwhelmed reaction to this week’s calamitous barn fire. As a confused Moira inadvertently sparked a blaze which trapped her and Ruby inside the barn, Mack was the first on the scene.

    Speeding over on his quad bike, he met John at the barn doors – and established that Moira was inside. As John tried to get inside, Mack called for help, alerting Chas and Cain.

    This done, he then joined John inside, and the pair set about trying to rescue Moira and Ruby. And surely Mack would be desperate to save his sister from a painful death, right?

    Right?

    John and Mack arrive at the barn fire on Emmerdale
    John and Mack were first on the scene (Credit: ITV)

    Mack and John to the rescue… but mostly John

    By the time Cain arrived, Mack was back outside the barn, claiming that he’d been unable to find Moira.

    Ruby, meanwhile, was safe and sound (smoke inhalation notwithstanding), having being carried out by the heroic pair.

    But fans were quick to notice how calm Mack seemed about the whole situation – especially given that his sister was inside the barn, potentially burning to death.

    Mack looks mildly concerned at the barn fire on Emmerdale
    Don’t worry Mack, it’s only your sister (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale fans slam Mack over barn fire reaction

    As the episode aired, fans took to social media to share their thoughts on Mack’s surprisingly calm reaction.

    “Cain saving Moira whilst useless Mack just leaves his OWN sister in there to burn!” exclaimed one fan on X.

    “Mack couldn’t sound less concerned on the phone,” noticed another.

    “Mack sounded like he didn’t give a [swear] that his sister was in a burning barn,” pointed out a third.

    “I’m not a fan of the Mack/John acting right now, they’re a bit too calm for my liking,” said a fourth.

    Military man John we can excuse, but not Mack, who didn’t seem too worried about his sister meeting a grisly end.

    Read more: Should Cain and Charity reunite?

    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!