The village of Emmerdale is headed for disaster – with news of an upcoming barn fire set to leave lives hanging in the balance.
This comes as an increasingly erratic Moira Dingle puts herself and Ruby in grave danger as she suffers visions of her old nemesis Emma Barton. Mistaking Ruby Fox-Miligan for Emma, Moira starts waving a shotgun around.
And it’s while threatening Ruby that Moira inadvertently starts a fire. And, as the blaze catches hold, it’s not long before even more lives are in danger…
But who’s on the chopping block? Here’s who we’d be happy to see go.
Nate hasn’t had much to do for a while now (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale barn fire: Nate
With rumours spiralling of an impending exit for Nate Robinson, it seems as though his time on the soap is coming to an end. This week’s episodes saw Nate moot an exit to a new job in Scotland, leaving the village behind.
Poor Nate has felt like dead wood for a while now. Sure, those biceps are nice to look at, but it doesn’t feel as though there’s much left for Nate in the village anymore – especially not with confused Moira once again coming between him and Cain.
Will Nate live to make it to Scotland?
The fire would be a good excuse to get rid of Mack (Credit: ITV)
Mack
Dubbed ‘Mackrat’ by the fans, Mack has lost any fans he might have had following his affair with Chloe Harris. He got a comeuppance of sorts, last Christmas, when he was kidnapped by her dad, but fans still haven’t forgiven him for cheating on Charity.
While it was satisfying seeing him get battered about by a bull in last week’s episodes of the soap, his rushing into the barn fire to save sister Moira could serve as a fine redemption for the character. A noble death for a character whose actions have been anything but.
Tom has earned a fiery demise (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale barn fire: Tom
True, it wouldn’t make much sense for Tom King to be hanging around at the barn – and we know he’ll likely be hanging around for as long as Christmas anyway – but we can hope, can’t we?
Following Tom’s campaign of abuse and coercive control against wife Belle, the man has emerged as one of the most hate-able soap villains of 2024. Fans are sure to be hoping for his exit, and with Tom appearing in the upcoming promo trailer… his death IS a possibility!
Will Will risk his life? (Credit: ITV)
Will
Will’s in the bad books of viewers right now after cheating on Queen of Home Farm Kim Tate with Rose Jackson (quite the come down if we’re honest.)
And, now someone’s tormenting him. But, as Will heads off to help the Dingles with the fire, we’re hoping that the fire finishes him off so that Kim can move on from the guy who has done nothing but drag her down as of late!
Tonight’s episode of Emmerdale sees Tom King and Amelia Spencer go public with the shocking news that they are now in a relationship.
This follows Belle’s split from abusive Tom, after beginning to realise the extent of his violent and controlling behaviour. It’s clear that Tom is only doing this to get to Belle – and may well spell danger for vulnerable Amelia.
After Tom and Belle, Tom and Amelia is another terrible pairing that will surely end in disaster – but far from Emmerdale’s last. Join us as we take a look back at some of the soap’s most terrible, toxic and downright dangerous pairings over the years.
Jo and Andy’s romance soon soured (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Andy and Jo
Before Belle and Tom, Jo Stiles fell victim to the abusive outbursts of her husband, Andy Sugden. The pair married while he was in prison serving time for the barn fire which killed his mother – and when he returned a free man, he had also transformed into a violent one.
After first accidentally slapping Jo during an argument, he continued to abuse his wife, even hospitalising her on one occasion. This cycle of abuse continued until she accidentally impaled him on a farm tool during one of their fights. Although Andy attempted to spin the narrative to paint himself as the victim (sound familiar?), Jo was able to make his family and neighbours see the light and flee both the village and her abusive husband.
Bob and Laurel is one of fans’ most hated romances (Credit: ITV)
Laurel and Bob
Unlikely lothario Bob Hope has been married to six women on the soap so far (twice to Viv Windsor). It was while he was in a relationship with Brenda Walker that Bob had his affair with Laurel.
The seedy truth was revealed when Laurel was called in for questioning over the murder of Emma Barton. It was then that Laurel revealed her alibi – she couldn’t have done it because she was with Bob at the time.
The pair tried to make things work after that, but both moved on – him to Wendy Posner, her to Jai Sharma. More on them later.
Fans hated Chas and Al together (Credit: ITV)
Chas and Al
Chas Dingle and Al Chapman brought out the worst in each other. Their affair went down as one of the most controversial in the soap’s history, leaving viewers frothing at the mouth.
As the pair cheated on their unsuspecting other halves (Paddy and Kerry), Al and Chas plotted their grand escape – with Al going so far as to pick out a house for them both outside of the village. Their affair came to a sudden end when he was murdered by young Kyle Dingle.
David and Victoria couldn’t keep their hands off of each other… for a while, anyway (Credit: ITV)
Jacob and Victoria
This couple were seemingly put together by soap bosses to facilitate David Metcalfe’s exit from the soap. Hastily concocting an affair between his son and his partner.
Upon discovering Jacob and Victoria’s betrayal, David was duly horrified – and left the village in the hours which followed. Job apparently done, Victoria and Jacob then split, and have barely been seen together since.
Fans felt that Terry and Dawn’s marriage made him look like a dirty old man (Credit: ITV/YouTube)
Dawn and Terry
Dawn arrived in the village as the young fiancee of Terry Woods after the pair met on holiday in Spain. It was then revealed that she was none other than Bob’s estranged daughter.
Bob, naturally was not keen on his daughter marrying a man 27 years her senior, but the marriage persisted, and the pair had a son together in baby T.J. However, their marriage wasn’t able to survive the strain of Terry’s stroke, and the pair split in 2003.
Both Bob and Dawn died in the years following – him in the Post Office fire which also killed Viv Windsor, her in the aftermath of the King family’s exploding home.
This short-lived marriage was filled with blazing rows and hidden secrets (Credit: ITV)
Jai and Laurel
Laurel and Jai are currently going through a vicious divorce following their recent split. She decided to end her marriage after a huge row over the secrets and lies surrounding his dad Amit’s exit from the village.
Their time as a couple was blighted by many such arguments and temper tantrums from Jai, making their marriage one of the most toxic in Emmerdale history.
Kelly liked the finer things in life (Credit: ITV/YouTube)
Kelly and anyone
Viv Windsor’s daughter Kelly was renowned as the village gold digger, seducing Chris Tate (who she tried to trick into paying for her abortion after claiming she was pregnant with his child), Rodney Blackstock (an age difference of 31 years) and Jimmy King.
It was her relationship with her adoptive brother Scott which really set the cat among the pigeons though, a pairing which tore a rift through the family – and led to the end of her marriage to childhood sweetheart Roy. As her affair with Scott ended and her marriage collapsed, Kelly sought comfort in the arms of her mum’s fiancee, Bob – only to leave the village in disgrace when he told Viv what she’d done.
This affair shocked everyone! (Credit: ITV)
Liam and Wendy
Of all the odd pairings over the years, one of the oddest is that of Doctor Liam Cavanagh and Wendy Posner. Bonding over his steamy fiction, the Doctor and his Nurse embarked upon an affair during which they couldn’t keep their hands off of each other.
This betrayal was undoubtedly a factor in poor Bob’s subsequent heart attack.
Before Tom, there was Lachlan (Credit: ITV)
Belle and Lachlan
Lachlan is Belle’s ex-boyfriend – currently in prison after killing his grandfather, mother, Gerry Roberts, and a man named Terry. He also left his aunt Rebecca with permanent brain damage after kidnapping her and attempting to strangle her to death.
With Lachlan in prison serving time for his crimes, Belle cut off their relationship… which is when she rekindled things with Tom, who had recently returned to the village.
Emmerdale fans have blasted Tom after months of his abusive behaviour towards Belle. But when will the storyline come to an end?
Things are certainly looking to heat up (literally) with the barn fire coming next week. Belle and Tom are both in the trailer so could be involved…
Last night’s episode (Monday, September 2) saw the ever-persistent Tom send another threat to Belle when she popped into the shop for some of the finest (reduced) pasta. But, what’s to come next?
Tom’s storyline could be coming to an end (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: Belle and Tom’s abuse
In last night’s Emmerdale, Tom started the conversation by telling Belle that he was a “good guy,†(hmm) and that he was making Jimmy and Nicola pasta for letting him stay at their house. Belle quickly grew suspicious of the constant “nice guy” comments.
She asked whether he had been spying on her emails as she had earlier received one saying there was nothing to disclose with Clare’s Law.
Tom then suggested she should check her passwords and be careful about photos. Alone, Tom suggested that Belle was hearing voices and that no one would believe her. Belle then fled the store.
This appeared to be a threat from Tom that he was going to send inappropriate photos of Belle online.
Later, she tried to access her private photos and discovered that the password had changed. Belle got angry and threw her laptop…
Will Tom share them around?
A big explosion is set to happen (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale fan outrage over Tom
Fans have flocked to social media to share their rightful disgust at Tom’s abusive actions. One X user worried that the storyline should be put to rest soon: “If it goes on much longer, the village will be on Tom’s side, as he makes her out to be unstable, eventually that will stick with the villagers. This needs to end now.”
Some aren’t so keen on the abuse storyline. Someone noted: “Let’s hope the Belle/Tom storyline concludes soon. Why isn’t she gathering evidence against him?” While another added: “Tom needs to go ASAP.”
Others emphasised Tom needed to leave, with one person exclaiming: “Make it stop.” But when will it come to an end?
When will the storyline end?
Tom seems to be gaining supporters, with Paddy Kirk telling Belle to go easy on him during Monday’s episode. But his past actions could be coming to bite him sooner than we thought…
Both Tom and Belle feature in the trailer for the barn fire, which is due to take place next week. Several people are thought to be involved, with someone potentially reaching a premature end.
Could this be the end for Tom? The storyline as a whole is set to run until the end of the year, but what does this mean for Tom? Will he be around long enough to see the year out?
In the Dales currently, Aaron’s getting it on with John Sugden. And, we all know that this isn’t the first time that he’s gotten up close and personal with someone with that surname.
Yes, viewers will be well aware that Aaron was once part of one of the greatest soap love stories ever to exist, forming one half of Emmerdale couple Robron.
So, as Aaron gazes into the eyes of John, here’s why he’ll never be able to shake Robert from his memory.
Aaron loves a Sugden (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: John and Aaron – From enemies to friends (with benefits)
John first arrived on screen as he met up with Aaron, with his van breaking down just before their online date.
Things soon escalated and they ended up having a passionate moment in the van, before John made off with the keys to Aaron’s (well, Pollard’s) car!
Aaron thought that he’d never see they guy again, but after Vic bumped into John at a funeral and realised that he might be her half brother, well it’s safe to say that Aaron’s seen a lot more of him that he expected.
Whilst initially being shocked at the fact that he’d slept with ANOTHER Sugden (a little icky considering he was married to a member of John’s family!), this didn’t stop Aaron from sleeping with John on more than one occasion.
But, last night (Monday, September 2), Aaron reassured Vic that what he had with John would never ever come close to the connection he shared with Robert. Phew. And, here’s why we’re agreeing!
Robron were the real deal (Credit: ITV)
The Sugden thing only works once
Well, let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way, the whole John being a Sugden thing is a huge factor as to why the two wouldn’t work.
At one point, Aaron was basically a Sugden himself. A lot went down when Robert went to prison. He still has a good relationship with Vic, but Aaron’s tried to move on from that part of his life as much as he can. And, he soooo shouldn’t go back there (well not with anyone other than Robert anyway!)
Surely, Aaron would feel like he was betraying the actual love of his life by dating another member of his family, no?
And, even if we did just put that thought to one side for a moment, the chances of John and Aaron being a new Emmerdale Robron 2.0 are still super slim…
Nothing else compares (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale Robron – A love that nobody can duplicate
John and Aaron clearly have a lot of lust for each other, but it’s extremely hard to see this developing into an actual romantic relationship.
That’s because Robert and Aaron were a power couple, totally in love with each other. They came as a package, with fans still shipping them to this day.
Robron went through soooo much together and developed such an emotional connection that will forever be unmatched as far as we’re concerned! The truth is… Aaron’s never quite gotten over Robert. It’s unclear if he ever will. That Robron split still breaks our hearts five years on!
And, as for John… does he even have a heart under that tough exterior? Hmmm…
Emmerdale: Too much baggage?
Both John and Aaron have a lot of baggage, with their personalities seeming to be a little too alike. There’s no denying that there’s sexual tension between these two (they can’t keep their hands off each other), but are they capable of letting each other in and connecting on a deeper level?
Can they really support each other through the tough times or is their compatibility only a physical one? We’ll have to see…
Things are definitely heating up in Emmerdale as Moira Dingle and Ruby Fox-Miligan are trapped when an explosion rages through a barn.
With Moira clearly struggling with some sort of mysterious affliction, her issues come to a head when she puts Ruby’s life at risk.
But could both women end up dead when the fire takes hold? We sat down with Natalie J Robb who plays Moira, and Beth Cordingly, AKA Ruby, to find out what’s going on.
Moira and Ruby are trapped in the fiery barn! (Credit: ITV)
What’s up with Moira?
Moira’s behaviour has definitely changed – is she aware that something’s wrong?
“She’s definitely unsettled by it,” Natalie tells us. “She’s clearly convinced it’s partly menopause but what starts to worry her is the way she’s reacting – her different outbursts. She can’t control her anger. And she’s having a little bit of a drink as well so we don’t know if that is a contribution to it. But she’s not drinking as much as maybe the audience are led to believe.”
And of course, on top of that, Moira and Cain’s marriage is starting to fall apart, thanks to her odd behaviour around Nate causing trouble.
“Caleb believes Moira has kissed Nate,” Natalie explains. “But she’s been consoling Nate about Tracy. She basically offers him a hug but from Caleb’s point of view it certainly looks more than a hug, he thinks it’s a kiss. Then he obviously tells Cain…”
And of course Cain doesn’t react well! He confronts his confused wife – how does that make Moira feel?
“She’s absolutely in denial because as far as she’s concerned that’s not what happened at all. But she is also second guessing – she’s got a little bit fuzzy with her memory and she’s confused.”
Moira’s behaviour might be unpredictable but Cain’s is absolutely on brand. As always, he lashes out first, asks questions later – and beats up his own son, Nate.
“Moira’s upset by it, and a little bit angry at him because he’s taken matters far too far and made things a lot worse than what they should’ve been.”
Ruby’s aware something’s wrong (Credit: ITV)
Ruby sticks her nose in!
And of course, that’s when Ruby gets involved!
“I think Ruby just jumps on the bandwagon,” laughs Beth Cordingly, who plays meddling Ms Fox-Miligan. “Ruby is very upset because Moira accused her of flirting with Cain, they have had a bit of a run-in and so when Ruby finds out from Caleb that everybody thinks Moira’s been having it off with Nate she goes up to the barn to have a bit of a gloat!”
But when Ruby gets to the barn, she finds Moira is behaving very strangely.
“Very,” agrees Beth. “Ruby walks in but very quickly she can see something’s not right. Moira’s spilling oil all over her hands, she looks like she’s in a bit of a daze. She sees Ruby and starts calling her ‘Emma’.”
Moira points the gun at Ruby (Credit: ITV)
Trigger point
It sounds very frightening for Ruby!
“Moira picks up a gun, at which point obviously Ruby starts panicking!” Beth says. “Genuinely she is really scared.”
So what’s going on with Moira? Does she really think Ruby is Emma Barton – the woman she killed after a dramatic series of events.
“Moira’s got no idea what is happening to her,” admits Natalie. “Definitely the PTSD comes through because they’re in the barn, just as when it was Emma Barton in the barn when she tried to kill Moira, and then Moira had a baby she didn’t know she was having!”
Can Moira help Ruby? (Credit: ITV)
Remembering another Emmerdale explosion…
So this triggers something in Moira?
“I think it sets something off in her,” Natalie agrees. “She starts to see Emma’s face in Ruby’s’ face. But Ruby obviously doesn’t know what is going on, Moira has totally lost the plot. Ruby doesn’t know who these people are. She’s freaking out and actually Moira is actually quite frightened. At that point that’s who she believes she’s seeing and Ruby says something quite similar to what Emma said to her just before she tried to kill her in the barn. She’s very triggered.”
And that’s just the beginning! Because things get worse when Moira fires the gun she’s holding.
“It hits the light, which sends sparks flying obviously,” Natalie says.
“And oil has spilled over the floor from when she was in a strange daze,” Beth continues. “We have a bit of a tussle and I get whacked and knocked unconscious by the gun.”
A huge explosion rips through the barn (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale explosion!
By then, of course, the flames are burning…
“Ruby is knocked out and Moira tries to wake her up. She does switch out of her daze and then immediately goes into trying to help Ruby. But then there is an explosion, and maybe not everybody gets out of that Emmerdale explosion…” teases Natalie.
So how did Natalie feel to revisit the Emma Barton storyline?
“I thought it was great,” she says. “When you hear about it sometimes you wonder if it will work, but it was such a wonderful team that week, a fantastic week of filming. Everything was done properly with the special effects team and everything else there was so much positivity around it, I really think its going to work. So it might sound a bit strange to you all, but I think with all the layers that are going on and all the things that are happening, it will all make sense!”
Of course, the filming itself was tricky – and dangerous and both women had stunt doubles.
“They were very brave,” gushes Natalie. “There’s a moment where something happens and the fire is completely all around them and I don’t know how they did that really! It goes to show you that’s why that’s their job and we do our job! There were some quite scary moments!”
“It was a really cool experience for everybody, the crew loved it, it was exciting,” remembers Beth. “When they did the stunts we’d all stand together and watch the stunt doubles doing their amazing stuff. It was quite an experience!”
The women had stunt doubles during filming (Credit: ITV)
Best of friends
Moira and Ruby may be enemies but Natalie and Beth enjoy working together.
“I love working with Nat,” says Beth. “I’m hoping if we survive that we get more stuff together!”
“We worked together on The Bill,” Natalie explains. “But we didn’t get to know each other because the cast was so vast and you’d dip in with different people every day. Now she’s like my best buddy so it’s lovely.”
Emmerdale’s Will Taylor has been receiving several super creepy and strange messages and phone calls following the departure of his ex-wife Rose from the Dales.
Previously Kim and Will tried to get rid of Rose by giving her money and leaving her on the roadside, but his daughter Dawn saved her mum and took her to the airport.
Having been uncovered, Dawn and her husband Billy have distanced themselves. Now, someone has been targeting Will. But, could it be Kim?
Theories suggest that Kim could be behind Will’s mystery calls (Credit: ITV)
What happened to Will?
In tonight’s episode (Monday, September 2) several clues were released as Will and Jimmy tried to figure out who was behind the calls.
Will showed his mysterious texts to Jimmy, who suggested that Caleb could be behind it as he wanted to get his hands on their Haulage company (a fairly reasonable guess!)
After confronting Ruby in the shop and discovering that she has nothing to do with Rose, Will ruled her and Caleb out of potential callers.
He came to the conclusion that Rose was behind his and rang the mystery number in a fit of rage. Later, he discovered that Rose was in Ibiza (lucky for some) and the number had called on an English number.
He accepted that Rose wasn’t behind his calls, but was nervous about how it could affect Will and Kim’s relationship.
After all, the caller knows that Will and Rose shared a kiss before she left the Dales.
Could Kim know this and want revenge on Will? We’re so hoping so! Could a return of the ‘old Kim’ be on its way?
Rose and Will shared a kiss before she left the Dales (Credit: ITV)
Who’s this Peter guy then? Is Kim plotting?
Elsewhere, Kim suggested she and Will enjoy a date night. She got weirdly reflective and told Will they should enjoy life after so closely losing it.
Will seemed comforted by Kim, but she had a strange look on her face. The look suggested she knew something that he didn’t.
Before their date, Kim headed down to The Hide with a man who she introduced to Vic as a financial advisor. This guy was called Peter… She ordered them both a wine, which they decided to take on a walk to talk business. Looks like they had something to celebrate…
It is not known what they were talking about, but it could be Kim making arrangements. Kim obviously has access to Will’s businesses and money so…
Could this plan be an arrangement to get her hands on Will’s assets following his cheating scandal? Is she Will’s tormentor?
Viewers of Emmerdale will be well aware that Mack is married to Charity, although he actually spends very little time with his wife it seems.
Yes, Mack actually sees more of his bestie Aaron and his new enemy John Sugden. Poor Charity hardly gets a look in.
But, why does Mack feel the need to be around Aaron 24/7? Are they really just best mates? Or, is a certain someone jealous of John?
Look at that smile! (Credit: ITV)
Mack and Aaron: The biggest bromance is the Dales
So, we’re not entirely sure how Aaron stands to be around Mack as often as he does but the guy must have an extremely high tolerance to annoying mechanics, we guess.
Nevertheless, everyone knows that Mack and Aaron are inseparable. Even Charity’s had the pleasure of making some jokey comments about Mack’s bromance.
But, is a bromance all it is? Currently, Mack’s world is revolving around John Sugden. Starting up a feud with him, Mack was loving teaming up with Aaron to scheme against Victoria’s half-brother.
Mack had the biggest smile on his face as he and Aaron ended up driving John’s van into a lake. And, Mack was kind of hoping that Aaron would be on his side when bull-gate happened.
Instead of confronting John about Mack’s accident though, Aaron ended up giving into temptation in a passionate moment with John.
Of course, when Mack found out about this he was livid and had a right go at Aaron for failing to have his back. When Aaron later informed Mack that he and John weren’t a thing, Mack couldn’t hide his joy (if only he knew that John was hiding in the flat ready to get it on with his best friend just moments later!) But, do Mack’s concerns over John only come from a place of friendship?
Does Mack have feelings for Aaron? (Credit: ITV)
John jealousy for Mack?
With Aaron sneaking off to spend more time with John, Mack’s not going to be happy that he’s seeing less of his mate, is he?
This feud with John seems a bit pointless now considering that Mack was only ever getting revenge on John for Aaron in the first place. But, with Aaron making amends with John now, what reason does Mack have to keep the vendetta going?
Well, could it be because Mack’s jealous of John? Does he actually have romantic feelings for his friend and is desperate to get John out of the picture?
The chemistry is obvious (Credit: ITV)
Mack and Aaron: The hottest new Emmerdale couple?
Whenever Mack’s with Charity in a scene, he’s always moaning about something. The person who lets him be his true, authentic and (absolutely infuriating) self just has to be Aaron.
There’s no denying that Mack and Aaron make a good team. They’re like the rhubarb to each other’s custard… And, we reckon that Mack realising that he’s also into men as well as women and starting a relationship with Aaron could just be the next best thing in soap!
Maybe this would give us a reason as to why Mack acts like a jealous teenager around John… Does he have the hots for Aaron? We hope so!
This Emmerdale review might be a bit prickly, as that’s exactly how we’re feeling after this week’s episodes!
Because everyone’s just been SO annoying.
Whether it’s sanctimonious Dawn, stubborn Cain, mouthy Mack, or gullible Jai, hardly anyone has impressed us this week.
Here’s who we’ve got beef with in this week’s Emmerdale review.
Dawn’s annoyed with her dad (Credit: ITV)
Dawn’s whining – again
We were very disappointed in Will Taylor when he gave into temptation and slept with ex-wife, Rose. So it’s a bit of surprise to all of us that we’re now feeling a little bit sorry for him. A teeny, tiny bit.
Because the flashbacks explaining what happened with Rose just made everything way more complicated. Here’s the story as far as we understand it: As part of her deal with Ruby, Rose (accidentally) drugged her addict daughter.
Will and Kim told her to leave the village, trying to protect Dawn from the truth about her mother. Dawn happened to drive past, took her mum to the airport, and pretended she was missing.
Now Dawn’s angry with Will for thinking Kim might have killed the mum she knew was alive, and for not contacting Rose directly when she lied that Evan needed a bone marrow transplant. In short, she’s annoyed about two things that didn’t actually happen.
And it’s a bit odd to pretend she doesn’t know how far Will and Kim are prepared to go to protect their family – has Dawn forgotten Malone? The man she killed?
It seems Dawn has indeed had a Moira-style memory lapse when it comes to her own guilty conscience. She’s ignoring the fact that Will covered up her crime, and Kim stepped in and sorted it all out, getting rid of the body when it looked like it was about to be discovered.
So frankly, we think it’s a bit late for Dawn to start getting all holier than thou about the morals of her dad and step-mum. (We are still cross with Will about the whole Rose thing, mind you.)
It’s obvious to everyone that something’s not right with Moira (Credit: ITV)
Cain’s a big let down in our Emmerdale review
Moira’s health issues worsened this week – her lapses are becoming more frequent, she had a seizure and slept in the barn, she’s forgetting just about everything, and her behaviour is wildly unpredictable. It’s obvious to just about everyone from her sister-in-law Chas to her young son Isaac that something’s not right.
But apparently, not to her husband Cain. Nope. He’s just too busy stomping around, throwing accusations in Moira’s face and, as Chas said, rolling his eyes, to consider his wife could be really poorly. Even when she told him she was ill, he didn’t take her seriously.
We’re worried Moira’s in trouble and things could take a terrifying turn for the worse – but will Cain even notice? He’s really let poor Moira down this time.
We’re sorry the bull didn’t finish Mack off (Credit: ITV)
Mack’s mouthing off
We are constantly bewildered by Mackenzie Boyd. He’s like an overgrown toddler in a lumberjack shirt. His ridiculous feud with John Sugden is exhausting and him marching round the village telling everyone it was John who let the bull out, made us roll our eyes, Cain-style.
We’re just disappointed that despite his dramatic collapse and him being carted off in an ambulance, Mack seems to be unscathed by his bull adventure. Just as he was was totally fine after being stabbed or plunging over a cliff in a car, or any of the other disasters he’s experienced.
Ah well, maybe next time, eh?
He’s not your friend, Jai (Credit: ITV)
Jai’s an idiot
Almost everyone in the village has warned Jai not to trust Caleb. But apparently, Jai is still *checks notes* trusting Caleb.
Well. Sort of.
After an intervention from Arthur, Jai did tell Laurel he’s not going to claim half her house. But he’s in it up to his neck with Mr Miligan and we can’t wait to see him discover just how untrustworthy Caleb can really be.
Aaron and John are an unexpected joy (Credit: ITV)
Unexpected treats
It’s not all bad though – there were some joyful moments in this week’s episodes. Gabby and Vinny are super cute together and we’re hoping they stay the distance. We’re glad to see Arthur back and looking out for his mum.
We loved John’s moment of being a protective big brother to Victoria, and while we’re on the subject of John – we are surprisingly and unexpectedly loving his fling with Aaron. It’s nice to see both those big grumpy lads cracking a smile for once!
Emmerdale has shared a dramatic first look at the upcoming barn fire that will put several villagers’ lives in danger.
The fire will send shockwaves through the village, with the promo teasing that secrets will be revealed.
In recent weeks, Moira has been acting strangely and drinking, causing her family to worry. It is her actions that set off the devastating chain of events… But who exactly is in danger in the Emmerdale barn fire?
Moira appears to be on a rampage (Credit: ITV)
Moira
In the short, thirty second teaser released by Emmerdale, Moira appears to be in the thick of the action.
First spotted kissing Nate (and on the end of some threatening words from him: “If you blab about what happened when you’re half cut”), she’s soon seen wielding a shotgun, shooting out a light, and dishing out a slap.
She’s also foremost in Cain’s thoughts – will the barn inferno finally be the moment everything burns to the ground for Moira?
Is Ruby’s time in Emmerdale nearly up? (Credit: ITV)
Ruby
Ruby barely features in the trailer, which could be a diversion away from expectations for her getting caught up in it?
The contemptible villainess has also been part of Emmerdale for less than a year, however. And while we reckon plenty of fans would be glad to see the back of her, we’ve an awful feeling our heartstrings are in for a fiercer plucking…
Is Nate done for? (Credit: ITV)
Nate
Oh dear, oh dear – it isn’t looking great for hunky Nate. With reports suggesting Nate is on his way from Emmerdale, and just as if it looks like his relationship with Tracy might be healed (he’s locking lips with her in the trailer), soap sod’s law probably means Nate will cark it… just as a happy ending (even if he managed to patch it up with Tracy and convince her to relocate to Scotland with him) seemed to be a possibility…
“See that’s the problem, I want you to come with me,” Nate is heard telling someone – presumably Tracy, as the voiceover airs over footage of them kissing.
Is Nate doomed?
Could Tom die in the barn fire? (Credit: ITV)
Tom
Again, Tom is another Emmerdale regular many fans might not be sad to see fall victim to the fire. After all, he’s probably guaranteed a trip to the burning depths of hell anyway, for how he’s abused Belle.
That gaslighting and manipulation is on show again in the trailer, as he is seen placing a hand over her mouth, and also telling her: “You look so beautiful when you cry.”
What a creep! Tom’s also seen collapsing with a head wound. Could this be his bloody end?
Caleb wouldn’t be missed by many Emmerdale residents (Credit: ITV)
Caleb
When it comes to stacking up bad karma, Caleb may have picked up more through the sharing of bad vibes than any of other Emmerdale rotters caught up in the fire.
“I saw Moira with Nate, kissing,” he is heard saying in voiceover, to an unidentified someone else.
Loose lips can sink ships, as they say. And in this case, it isn’t Moira and Nate’s lips – but chatting about them instead could prove damning for Caleb.
Seen sneaking around the barn, Caleb may also be among the three figures – it is hard to definitely say who is who at the end of the trailer. But one outline certainly does look like him… and goes limp as an explosion goes off!
Will Mack make it? (Credit: ITV)
Mack
Similarly, we’re not sure whether Mack might be one of the three spied at the end of the teaser. One may be Caleb, and another appears to be John, possibly.
Additionally, Mack might be the person who appears to have a burning ceiling beam drop on them… or is that Nate?
After his recent close encounter with a bull, has Mack’s luck in defying death run out?
Could John be a goner? (Credit: ITV)
John
John‘s only just joined Emmerdale in recent months, so we’re hopeful that could mean a thumbs up for his prospects. But we’re not sure, even though it could indicated he will escape death in the barn.
He looks to be very involved, though. “Call the fire brigade now, tell them someone’s trapped,” he’s heard saying, sounding like a man attempting to get control of a situation.
But other glimpses in the trailer show nobody is in control. And does he end up trapped himself when an explosion goes off?
Will Belle be ok? (Credit: ITV)
Belle
As if being in the clutches of the mad, bad, and dangerous to know Tom isn’t enough to keep Belle occupied, the drama keeps on building as she looks to be in a right state as flames lick around her.
Not only does Tom appear to restrain her at one point, she is also shown to be out for the count with the blaze mere feet away.
Could Belle’s words in voiceover end up as her own eulogy? “I love you so much. And that love is never going to go away,” she is heard to say.
Could Emmerdale lose Tracy? (Credit: ITV)
Tracy
Is anyone guaranteed a happy ending in Soapland? Just as if it seems like Tracy and Nate might be able to get things back on track with Nate, it seems like he might relocate to Scotland.
Then, going by the trailer, it seems like Caleb hasn’t finished causing trouble for Nate – and the fears of Nate departing the soap in a coffin seem very real.
If Nate leaves, could Tracy be set for an exit, too?
Cain looks aghast (Credit: ITV)
Cain
He doesn’t feature all that much in the trailer – and he’s certainly outlasted many Emmerdale veterans in similarly hazardous situations – but Cain‘s luck can’t last forever.
Moira, as ever, appears to be a catalyst for trouble. And like a moth attracted to the flame, Cain is pulled into danger as he’s seen desperately calling his wife’s name as he arrives at the fiery scene, and also peering through flames.
Will is having a rough time (Credit: ITV)
Will
Despite his prominence in Emmerdale’s biggest storylines, Will‘s presence in the teaser is a relatively small one.
As with Ruby, that could be part of a soap plot red herring – not giving too much away in the trailer.
But, as he often appears, Will has a look full of regret in the preview. He’s been having a really rough go of it recently. Could a terrible death in the burning barn be the full stop to his miserable time in Emmerdale?
The Emmerdale divorce between Laurel and Jai is currently playing out. And we’ve certainly taken sides.
What was she ever thinking in saying ‘I do’ to him, without that sentence ending with ‘want to push him into a massive cow pat?’
There are many, many reasons why we cannot understand how Jai wormed his way into marriage with Laurel. And here are just a few why we’re so glad she’s almost shot of him.
What a snake (Credit: ITV)
Jai just can’t be trusted
A habitual liar, Jai only ever looks out for himself – and to line his pockets.
Any of his shameful approaches to the division of assets as the former couple plan for their lives without each other demonstrate just how low he’s prepared to go to stash away his pennies.
And even in the past week he’s been caught fibbing he was skint during a mediation session… and this comes despite making a few quid on her share purchase relating to The Hide!
He’s also plotting with Caleb, who Jai is daft for turning to in the first place. Fingers crossed the two rogues will soon turn on each other.
Additionally, amid Laurel and Jai being on-off on-off before they got hitched, she previously took him back in early 2022 after a break up relating to money.
He’d taken a loan out in her name, saying he needed to pay off fines… and she let it go!
Soon be free of the louse, Laurel, don’t fret (Credit: ITV)
He’s after her house!
Of course, pilfering Jai has eyed up other assets belonging to Laurel, too, beyond that loan application.
The sneaky so-and-so also wants to walk away with Laurel’s house – the home she and and her late husband Ashley lived in for years.
Yes, she may have found ways to move on with her life after Ashley’s sad passing in 2018.
But that house has been the foundations for Laurel’s life, and the site of so many important family memories, including where Gabby, Arthur, and Dotty have been raised.
Put simply: Hands off Jai, Mulberry Cottage isn’t up for grabs.
Don’t let Jai get Mulberry Cottage! (Credit: ITV)
Jai’s at fault
Furthermore, Jai’s being an absolute man-baby about the divorce in general – and particularly when it comes to property, as seen with Laurel’s home..
However, not only has he also flogged off Holdgate Farm and Tenant’s Cottage in order to deny Laurel a share of the proceeds, let’s not forget who’s truly at fault for all of this domestic strife coming to a head in the first place.
After all, it was Jai’s behaviour that’s left the couple on the rocks. Back in June, Laurel rumbled Jai after he was secretive about Amit Sharma’s true role in the death of Rishi Sharma.
And ultimately, Jai wasn’t able to prevent Laurel realising something was up – and he admitted to torturing Amit, forcing him out of the village, and swiping his share of The Hop!
It is hard to see what responsibility Laurel could bear for any of this, including Jai’s unhinged conduct. So he should take his punishment – and a hefty dent in his assets – for lying to his missus in the first place.
Laurel is getting rid and we couldn’t be happier about it (Credit: ITV)
Laurel’s been through enough!
It is also worth considering whether Jai may be attempting to kill Laurel off by wearing her down over time.
Earlier this summer she had a heart attack, seemingly brought on by a row with Jai. Laurel collapsed after chucking him out, and was found struggling to breathe by Gabby.
As she recovered in hospital, Laurel revealed to Suni Sharma how Jai had ruthlessly gone after shares in The Hop which he might have expected would come to him.
Laurel also told Jai their marriage was over from her hospital bed. But it seemed to take a good while for him to process what she was saying. And accept they were done.
Please, no more stress for Laurel – we don’t want a funeral happening… Well, not hers, anyway.
There’s no denying Jai is an absolute plonker in every way (Credit: ITV)
Jai’s a plonker
Set aside, just for a moment, everything that has gone on between Jai and Laurel during the course of their relationship.
And now cast your mind back to when they weren’t involved, years ago. When she worked in the factory when she was really struggling with her addiction to alcohol. Jai wanted rid of Laurel, as he didn’t want an alcoholic in his workforce.
Two questions beg: Why wasn’t Laurel straight on to HR? And why the heck didn’t this treatment pop up as a consideration ahead of them getting wed?
![Emmerdale explosion: Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/00_emm_moira_ruby_fire.jpg)
![Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09_09_emm_ruby_moira_01.jpg)
![Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09_09_emm_ruby_moira_05.jpg)
![Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09_09_emm_ruby_unconcious_01.jpg)
![Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/11_09_emm_explosion_01.jpg)
![Arriving in the barn to gloat, Ruby [BETH CORDINGLY] becomes slightly sorry for Moira Dingle [NATALIE J ROBB] when she’s unresponsive to the jibes. As stressed Moira spills tractor fuel in the barn, Ruby’s voice begins to blur with her old nemesis Emma Barton’s and an unrecognisable Moira raises her shotgun at freaked out Ruby. Soon padlocking the barn, stressed Moira continues to see Emma instead of Ruby. She fires a warning shot into the air, frightening Ruby. The shot hits a light bulb, causing a spark to take hold. A tussle for the shotgun ends with Moira dazing Ruby with a blow to the head. Hazy and shaken as she comes out of her daze, Moira is soon confused. The spark catches the tractor fuel and quickly becomes a blaze as Moira freezes, helpless next to Ruby’s body](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09_09_emm_moira_ruby_fight_01.jpg)
