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  • Lucy Pargeter: Broken engagement, three children and popstar past

    Lucy Pargeter: Broken engagement, three children and popstar past

    Lucy Pargeter has played the part of Emmerdale landlady Chas Dingle for over two decades. She joined the cast of the Yorkshire-based soap back in 2002 and has been at the centre of some of its biggest storylines.

    Chas is the landlady of The Woolpack, has a famously fractious relationship with on-screen son Aaron Dingle, and a history of doomed romances.

    In 2019 Lucy scooped Best Actress at the British Soap Awards for her heartbreaking portrayal of baby loss.

    But what other shows has Lucy Pargeter starred in? And is she luckier in love than her on-screen alter ego?

    Lucy Pargeter smiles in a burnt orange dress on the Bafta's red carpet
    The actress feels right at home in Emmerdale (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Who is Lucy Pargeter?

    Lucy Pargeter is a British actress best known for playing Emmerdale’s Chas Dingle.

    She has been in the acting business for over 25 years and appeared in a number of popular TV dramas.

    Lucy got her big break in 2002 when she joined Emmerdale’s iconic Dingle family.

    She made her first on-screen appearance in the October of that year and Chas now one of the Dale’s longest-serving characters.

    How old is Lucy Pargeter?

    Lucy Pargeter was born on March 1, 1977, which makes her 47-years-old.

    The actress was born and raised in Nottingham, and trained at the Central Junior Television Workshop and New College.

    Chas talking to the Dingles on Emmerdale
    Chas has had a hard year (Credit: ITV)

    Chas Dingle in Emmerdale

    Lucy plays feisty Woolpack manager and mum-of-three, Chas Dingle. Chas has lived in the Dales for over 20 years and spent most of those at the helm of the village pub.

    She went from barmaid to co-owner to landlady, but was forced to sell her beloved boozer after being swindled by ex-lover Al Chapman.

    Chas’s love life is a soap in itself.

    She was married to loveable village vet Paddy Kirk, but messed it up by sleeping with Al.

    The character clearly has a thing for killers as her exes include the dangerous (and now deceased) Carl King and Cameron Murray.

    Chas is a proud mum of three, although far from the model parent – particularly with son, Aaron. The status of their on/off relationship is currently estranged, but working their way towards reconciliation following her cancer diagnosis.

    Chas suffered the worst possible heartbreak in 2018 when her baby daughter Grace died from a rare kidney condition. However, happiness followed when she and Paddy welcomed little Eve the following year.

    2024 looks set to be another tough year for Chas, who is recovering from a double mastectomy following a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis, the same cancer that claimed her mum Faith’s life.

    Lucy Pargeter sings on Soap Star Super star
    The actress has quite the voice (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    Lucy Pargeter used to be a popstar

    That’s right!

    Before becoming a soap actress, Lucy was a member of girl group, Paperdolls. The trio toured with Irish boy band Boyzone in the 1990s.

    Paperdolls also released a single called Gonna Make You Blush’, which made it to number 65 in the charts.

    Lucy took part in the celebrity version of Stars In Their Eyes as Spice Girl Emma Bunton. And in 2006 she featured in reality singing competition, Soapstar Superstar.

    Lucy wowed audiences with her performances – which included belting out Bonnie Tyler’s Holding Out For A Hero.

    Helen in Crossroads looks annoyed as Vince holds up pregnancy tests
    Crossroads was pre-Emmerdale for Lucy (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    What else has Lucy Pargeter been in?

    Lucy’s first professional acting gig was in the 1996 TV movie The Bare Necessities. She starred opposite her future Emmerdale on-screen brother, William Ash (who plays Caleb Miligan).

    The actress also has had small parts in a number of popular dramas, including Dalziel and Pascoe and Soldier Soldier.

    Prior to landing her role in Emmerdale, Lucy was best known for playing Helen Raven in the re-make of iconic soap Crossroads.

    Fans of Lucy will also remember her appearance in the thirteenth series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here. Lucy survived the whole jungle experience and finished in a very respectable third place.

    She’s undergone breast surgery

    Lucy underwent two boob jobs – the first aged 21 and her second aged 32.

    But a botched operation left Lucy suffering from years of ill health, including rashes and breathing difficulties. She made the decision to have her implants removed in 2019 after discovering they’d turned toxic.

    Lucy made a before-and-after surgery video as part of a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary, investigating women who claimed their implants were making them ill.

    In the footage she recorded, Lucy said: “Four days until I get these toxic bags out of my body. This current set have been in for just over 11 years.

    “I know that everything is going to be much better – but what am I going to look like?”

    Thankfully, Lucy’s surgery was a success and she made a full recovery.

    Rudi and Lucy smile on the red carpet
    The couple share three daughters, but split in 2019 (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Lucy’s sad love split

    Lucy was in a long-term relationship with football coach, Rudi Coleano. The couple were engaged to be married, and almost tied the knot while holidaying in Dubai – but decided against it.

    In 2019, Lucy and Rudi announced they’d mutually agreed to separate.

    A statement released by the pair at the time read: “Lucy Pargeter has confirmed she has separated from her long-term partner, Rudi Coleano, and, while no longer together, their main priority is raising their three daughters.”

    There’s a new man in Lucy’s life

    Lucy has found happiness again after her break-up from former fiancé Rudi. Speaking on The Real Is Real podcast back in 2022, the actress revealed there’s a new man in her life.

    “I’m in a new relationship now. Exclusive. Don’t say anything,” she said.

    Lucy bravely confessed she’d felt nervous about dating again following her breast surgery.

    “Massive fear for me being a single mother of three, possibly finding someone else to spend the rest of my life with and thinking, ‘oh my god, the first thing I’m going to have to say is I’ve got no tits.”

    She continued: “I constantly find myself apologising for having no tits, but he’s like, ‘I don’t give a [bleep] if you’ve got tits or not. It’s you that I love and it’s you who I want to be with.”

    Lucy Pargeter looks serious as she discusses IVF on This Morning
    Lucy had IVF to fall pregnant again (Credit: ITV)

    Does Lucy Pargeter have children?

    Lucy has three daughters, who she shares with her former partner Rudi Coleano. Their eldest, Lola, was born in 2005 and is currently 18-years-old.

    In April 2017, Lucy gave birth to twin girls, called Missy and Betsy.

    Lucy’s twins were conceived via IVF after the actress struggled to fall pregnant naturally, something which she openly discussed at the time.

    Lucy returned to work on Emmerdale five months after welcoming Missy and Betsy and has been on our screens ever since.

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.30pm and 2.05pm.

  • William Ash: Child star, Coronation Street connection and famous schoolmate

    William Ash: Child star, Coronation Street connection and famous schoolmate

    William Ash is best known for playing the part of Emmerdale businessman and love cheat Caleb Miligan. The character has been in the thick of the action since his dramatic Christmas Day arrival in 2022.

    Caleb’s storylines have included his bid to destroy Kim Tate, feud with brother Cain and a steamy affair with his nephew’s wife, Tracy Robinson.

    But it’s all just a day’s work for William, who’s been in the acting game since he was 10 years old. Here is everything you need to know about the soap star.

    William Ash smiles on This Morning
    Caleb has been on the show since 2022 (Credit: ITV)

    Who is Emmerdale star William Ash?

    William Ash is a British actor who plays Emmerdale’s Caleb Miligan. A familiar face to millions, William was bitten by the performing bug at a young age.

    The star has enjoyed a very steady career, with roles in several popular TV dramas.

    William made his first TV appearance in Coronation Street, playing a character called Spike.

    How old is William Ash?

    William Ash was born on January 13, 1977, making him 47-years-old. He originated from Chadderton, a town near Oldham in Greater Manchester.

    William’s parents were not in the showbiz world, his dad worked as an engineer and his mum was a police civilian.

    He has a sister, who works as a teacher.

    Caleb looks suspicious and smug in Emmerdale
    Caleb’s certainly made his mark on the village (Credit: ITV)

    William Ash as Caleb Miligan in Emmerdale

    William plays Caleb Miligan, a businessman with a roving eye. Caleb is the long-lost son of Faith Dingle and conceived during her affair with Frank Tate.

    He was born while Faith was in prison and then abandoned by his mum. Caleb was placed in the foster system and experienced a difficult upbringing.

    Caleb is the younger half-brother of Chas and Cain Dingle and was estranged from them both for years.

    His relationship with Cain has been particularly stormy, although the brothers are thick as thieves for now.

    Caleb’s wife Ruby recently arrived in the village and the pair enjoyed a passionate reunion which proved they’re still very much an item.

    Ruby quickly discovered Caleb had been having an affair with his nephew Nate’s wife Tracy and outed the pairs’ infidelity at Belle Dingle’s wedding.

    The couple’s son Nicky was aware of his dad’s betrayal, but is used to Caleb’s selfish behaviour. In fact, Nicky once tried to kill Caleb after tiring of his wicked ways.

    Will Ash is a former Coronation Street star

    Soap fans may remember William once had a brief role in rival soap Coronation Street. He made his Street debut back in 1987.

    William was 10-years-old at the time and played a character called Spike. Spike attended a charity fete on the Street.

    He then returned in 2002, this time playing criminal Johnny James. Johnny had raided a post office and tried to hijack Rita Tanner’s car to get away.

    William Ash smiles in Children's Ward with a little girl and clutching glasses of Orange Juice
    Children’s Ward was one of William’s first roles (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    What else has William Ash been in?

    William’s CV is rather impressive. He was a regular in TV dramas such as Making Out and Where the Heart Is.

    The actor has also appeared in Clocking Off, Children’s Ward, Burn It, All the King’s Men, Shameless, Doctor Who, Death in Paradise, Wanderlust and Moving On.

    Between 2009 and 2011, William played deputy headteacher Christopher Mead in the popular BBC series Waterloo Road.

    His stage credits include Presence at the Royal Court Theatre and Of Mice and Men at the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh.

    In 2011, William had a lead in the BBC comedy drama, Lapland, and reprised the role of Ray in a new series, Being Eileen.

    He also portrayed Manchester United footballer Albert Scanlon, in the BBC series Surviving Disasters, which retold the story of the Munich air disaster of 1958, which Scanlon survived.

    William Ash and Pam Ferris arm in arm in Where the Heart is
    He starred alongside Pam Ferris in Where The Heart Is (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    He’s a dad of two

    William prefers to keep his personal life private.

    He’s a dad of two children, but chooses not to discuss his family.

    Coronation Street: Gemma and Paul are shocked to see their dad, Denny
    Peter plays Tragic Paul in Corrie (Credit: ITV)

    Relation to Peter Ash

    William’s acting talent clearly runs in the family. His cousin is Peter Ash, who plays Coronation Street’s Paul Foreman.

    Tragic Paul is currently living out his final months as he battles motor neurone disease.

    Proud William recently praised his cousin’s performance saying: “He’s been fantastic. It’s a shame, actually, that he’s going to have to eventually leave because he’s been brilliant in it. And he’s a top lad.”

    And when William joined Emmerdale, Peter was made up for his family member. He tweeted: “Yes! This is my cousin Will. He’s an absolutely fantastic actor, and was one of my big inspirations for getting into acting myself.

    “Can’t wait to see him do his stuff in Emmerdale.”

    Cain and Moira on Emmerdale
    On-screen brother Jeff is a former alumni of Will (Credit: ITV)

    Will went to school with his co-star

    William was a pupil of North Chadderton comprehensive in Oldham, which was the same school his on-screen brother Jeff Hordley (Cain Dingle) attended.

    There’s a six-year age gap between the actors, meaning Jeff was already in the sixth form when William started at the school.

    Prior to Emmerdale the actors also worked together on a play called Another Country, and William openly stated Jeff was one of the reasons he said yes to his Emmerdale job.

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.30pm and 2.05pm.

  • Emmerdale star Emma Atkins: Award winner, mum of one, and fan of the great outdoors

    Emmerdale star Emma Atkins: Award winner, mum of one, and fan of the great outdoors

    Emma Atkins is best known for playing Emmerdale troublemaker Charity Dingle. The actress joined the cast in 2000, and has been involved in several high-profile storylines.

    Charity is legendary for her illegal scams, multiple affairs, being framed for murder and ending up behind bars.

    The character of Charity is also best known for her on/off fiery romance with cousin Cain, who’s often acted as her partner in crime.

    She’s been married four times and has as many children. Charity is also an accidental murderer after taking the life of gangster Damon Harris, who was holding her husband, Mackenzie Boyd hostage.

    In comparison, actress Emma’s life is far less chaotic. Here’s everything we know about her.

    Emma Atkins on the red carpet at the British Soap Awards
    Emma has played Charity Dingle in Emmerdale since 2000 (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Who is Emma Atkins?

    Emma Atkins is a British actress who plays Emmerdale’s Charity Dingle. She made her first appearance on the soap back in March 2000.

    Actress Suranne Jones also auditioned for the part of Charity. She went on to play Karen McDonald in Coronation Street.

    How old is Emma Atkins?

    Emma Atkins was born on 31 March 1975, making her 48-years-old. She grew up in the small village of Silverdale in Lancashire.

    Emma’s mother worked in Wakefield Prison and her sister Jillian Atkins is a fashion designer.

    After school, Emma went to study at the University of Salford then pursued a career in acting.

    Emmerdale fans are convinced Charity Dingle will take devastating revenge (Credit: ITV)
    Charity in Emmerdale is force to be reckoned with (Credit: ITV)

    Emma Atkins as Charity Dingle in Emmerdale

    Emma plays Charity Dingle – the irrepressible landlady of The Woolpack.

    She’s been married four times, and her current husband is Mackenzie Boyd, aka Mack.

    Charity has four biological children – daughter Debbie Dingle, and sons Ryan Stocks, Noah Dingle and Moses Dingle. She also has an adopted son, Johnny, from her relationship with his mum, Vanessa Woodfield.

    Charity is a true survivor.

    Following the death of her mother by suicide when she was just a child, Charity ended up living on the streets and fell into prostitution.

    At the age of 14, Charity was raped by police officer Mark Bails, the product of which was her son Ryan. She believed Ryan had died at birth, but years later found out he had survived and was adopted by the midwife Irene Stocks.

    When Bails came back on the scene, Charity bravely managed to have him convicted and he was sentenced to 30 years in prison.

    Charity has recently been in the grips of PSTD, after shooting dangerous criminal Harry dead while trying to protect Mack.

    Emmerdale Atkins smiles on Lorraine
    The actress has also won plenty of awards (Credit: ITV)

    Emma Atkins, award winner

    Emma has been nominated for numerous awards over the years – including Best Actress at the British Soap Awards and Serial Drama Performance at the National Television Awards.

    She’s scooped the Best Actress gong at the TV Choice Awards, Inside Soap Awards and Daily Star Soap Awards.

    Emma Atkin as Lesley in Heartbeat looks shifty
    A part in Heartbeat (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    What else has Emma Atkins been in?

    Emma is of course most recognised as Emmerdale’s Charity.

    She’s also featured in episodes of BBC series Dalziel and Pascoe, Mayo, I’m with Stupid, New Street Law, Doctors and Casualty.

    In 2008, she starred in the seventeenth series of Heartbeat, playing the part of Lesley Ashton.

    Debbie and Charity look upset and tense in Emmerdale
    Charity bid farewell to the Dales in 2004 (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

    Emma Atkins’ Emmerdale exit

    Emma announced she was leaving Emmerdale in 2004 to explore other opportunities.

    She worked as a jobbing actress for the next five years before announcing her return to soap in March 2009.

    Emma took a second, but shorter, break in 2015 after giving birth to her son, Albert.

    She’s a real-life mum

    Emma is a proud mum of one to her son, Albert. The actress kept her pregnancy a secret from viewers at the time.

    Emmerdale bosses cleverly wrote Charity’s stint in prison to coincide with Emma’s maternity leave.

    The actress welcomed her baby boy just before her 40th birthday in March 2015. She called Albert “the best present” in an interview with The Sun.

    Emma Atkins and partner Tom smile on the red carpet
    Her partner Tom (pictured with Emma in 2014) stays away from the spotlight (Credit: Shutterstock)

    Emma keeps her personal life private

    Emma is in a long-term relationship with her partner, Tom. The actress’s other-half isn’t famous and is reported to be a businessman.

    The couple have made a red carpet appearance together, but on the whole Emma prefers to keep her life away from the spotlight.

    She chooses not to share snaps of either Tom or their son, Albert on social media.

    On Emma’s Instagram – followers will instead find a stunning array of arty outdoors shots (mainly trees) from her walks in nature.

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.30pm and 2.05pm.

  • Natalie J Robb: Childhood star, co-star romance and a stint as a popstar

    Natalie J Robb: Childhood star, co-star romance and a stint as a popstar

    Natalie J Robb is best known for playing Emmerdale’s feisty farmer Moira Dingle. A former child star, the actress joined the long-running soap in 2009.

    Natalie was cast as the matriarch of the Bartons – a modern farming family who were brought in by former series producer, Gavin Blyth to spice things up.

    And Moira has definitely been caught up in a few scandals.

    The sexy Scot has a weakness for a bad boy, and her affairs with Cain Dingle, brother-in-law James Barton and stepson Nate Robinson certainly got the fans talking.

    But it’s not all been about rolling around in the haystacks.

    Moira also has faced terrible tragedy, with the loss of her first husband John and the shocking death of their daughter Holly to a heroin overdose.

    But what is there to know about the woman who plays one of the Dales’ strongest women?

    Natalie J Robb on the red carpet at the NTAs
    Natalie is a fan favourite (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Who is Natalie J Robb?

    Natalie J Robb is a British actress who plays Emmerdale’s Moira Dingle.

    Now in the fortieth year of her career, Natalie has been professionally acting since the tender age of nine.

    Fans may also remember her for playing Trish McDonald in Scottish soap Take the High Road and Jude Carlyle in Doctors.

    How old is Natalie J Robb?

    Natalie Joy Robb was born on December 3, 1974, making her 49-years-old. She grew up in Bellshill, which is located in North Lanarkshire, Scotland.

    Natalie is the youngest of three children and has an older brother and sister.

    She started acting classes at a young age, which is where she was discovered by director Alan Macmillan. Natalie went on to attend the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

    Moira in Emmerdale looks sad
    Things are not good for Moira right now (Credit: ITV)

    Moira Dingle in Emmerdale?

    Natalie plays the vivacious Moira Dingle. She’s been married to mechanic Cain Dingle since 2014, but things haven’t always been plain sailing for the couple.

    Moira’s first husband, John, who she cheated on with Cain, tragically died in a car accident.

    The character is mum to her three sons Adam Barton, Matty Barton and Isaac Dingle. Adam’s father was revealed to be his uncle James, who Moira had an affair with.

    Tragedy struck in 2016 when Moira discovered her daughter Holly dead in bed, after a long addiction to heroin.

    Moira also has a dark secret – she’s a killer!

    She pushed her psychotic sister-in-law Emma Barton off the Hotten Viaduct to her death, and Adam took the rap for her.

    Adam went to prison, but ended up breaking out and is still on the run.

    Natalie J Robb in a music video
    Natalie was in videos for her music (Credit: YouTube)

    Natalie is a former popstar

    Prior to finding fame as a soap star, Natalie had a stab at a singing career. In the 90s she was a member of a band called The Kinky People.

    Despite their memorable name, the group failed to have any chart success and eventually split.

    In 1997, Natalie released a single called Keep Your Love with dance group Partizan.

    She also lent her vocals to trance track I Will Be There, with artist Absolutely.

    Natalie J Robb as Andrea in The Bill looks under pressure
    As Andrea in The Bill (Credit: Fremantle Media/Shutterstock)

    What else has Natalie J Robb been in?

    Quite a bit as it turns out!

    The actress made her screen debut at the tender age of nine, starring in an STV drama alongside esteemed actor Tom Conti.

    At 13, Natalie was awarded the BBC Young Entertainer of the Year award on popular children’s TV show, Going Live!

    Then Soapland came calling.

    As well as her roles in Take the High Road, Doctors and The Bill, Natalie also had a brief stint in EastEnders as Max Branning’s mistress, Gemma Clewes.

    Liam Cavanagh looks upset in Emmerdale in the cafe
    Jonny plays Liam in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)

    She dated her Emmerdale co-star

    Natalie previously enjoyed a romance with her co-star Jonny McPherson, who plays the Dales resident doctor, Liam Cavanagh. The couple met on the set of the Yorkshire-based soap and were smitten.

    They even lived together for a while after Jonny moved into Natalie’s home during the first Covid lockdown of 2020.

    Unfortunately Natalie and Jonny agreed to go their separate ways the following summer after deciding they were better off as friends rather than lovers.

    Speaking for the first time about her split, Natalie told The Sun in 2023: “Unfortunately, it was Covid times, so there was this added pressure.

    “He moved in with me during the first lockdown and it was just too intense, too soon. And if you’re not used to that, which I hadn’t been for a while, we realised pretty quickly that we were better off as friends.”

     

    Natalie J Robb on having children

    The actress also opened up about being questioned over not having children in The Sun interview, explaining people judge her for it.

    She said: “I used to get judged for not having children. People would be like: ‘What? You don’t have any kids and you’re single? You must be crazy.’ But I just never had that feeling of: ‘Oh my god, I’ve got to have a baby.’ It has to be the right situation – I didn’t want to go and do something like that on my own.”

    Mack and Moira look suspicious in Emmerdale
    Mack and Moira are brother and sister, but not related in real life (Credit: ITV)

    Natalie is not related to Lawrence Robb

    Eagle-eyed viewers will have spotted Natalie shares the same surname as her co-star Lawrence Robb.

    The actors are on-screen siblings as Lawrence plays Moira’s younger brother, Mackenzie Boyd.

    But despite having the same last name and both being Scottish, the duo are not related.

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.30pm and 2.05pm.

  • Emmerdale star Jeff Hordley: A real-life romance with his co-star, DJ and healthy living advocate

    Emmerdale star Jeff Hordley: A real-life romance with his co-star, DJ and healthy living advocate

    Jeff Hordley has played Emmerdale Cain Dingle for nearly 24 years. Cain arrived in the village back in 2000 and his wicked ways made an instant impression with fans.

    The moody mechanic has a weakness for beautiful women – in particular ones that are already taken.

    He’s currently happily married to farmer Moira, but the list of his past conquests is extensive.

    Cain’s character means he makes enemies easily. His past foes include his sister Chas’s late lover, Al Chapman and even his own family members.

    But what about actor Jeff Hordley? What’s his life like away from the village? And which Emmerdale co-star does he get to go home to every night?

    Emmerdale's Jeff Hordley
    Jeff Hordley plays Cain Dingle (Credit: ITV)

    Who is Jeff Hordley?

    Jeff Hordley is a British actor best known for playing Emmerdale’s Cain Dingle. He’s been acting since he was a teenager and has also appeared in well known dramas such as Heartbeat.

    Jeff joined the cast of Emmerdale at the start of the millennium and has gone on to become one of the soap’s best-loved characters.

    How old is Jeff Hordley?

    Jeff Hordley was born on March 7, 1970, which means he’s 53-years-old. A proud Mancunian, Jeff grew up in Oldham and is still to this day a passionate Manchester City football fan.

    He attended North Chadderton Comprehensive before graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University School of Theatre with a BA (Hons) degree in Theatre Acting.

    Cain talking angrily to Ruby on Emmerdale
    Cain is Emmerdale’s most popular character (Credit: ITV)

    Who does Jeff Hordley play in Emmerdale?

    Jeff plays the one and only Cain Dingle – Emmerdale’s resident bad boy, mechanic and all round soap legend.

    Cain was introduced as the black sheep of the Dingle family, and the illegitimate son of Zak Dingle and his sister-in-law, Faith.

    Arriving in 2000, Cain’s early years were spent shocking viewers with his illegal antics and also bedding a string of married women.

    There’s been two loves of Cain’s life.

    First up his cousin Charity, with whom he’s had a tumultuous on/off love affair (currently off).

    Then there’s Moira. What started out as a steamy fling resulted in Cain finding his soulmate and their marriage has certainly been the making of him.

    Cain’s had several brushes with death, including being attacked in a gripping whodunit storyline.

    He’s a dad of four to Debbie Dingle, Nate Robinson, Kyle Winchester and Isaac Dingle.

    Cain would do anything for his brood and even went as far as taking blame for Al Chapman’s murder to protect son Kyle, who was the real killer.

    Jeff Hordley smiles in 2009
    He’s a popular DJ outside of his acting (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Jeff is a DJ on the side

    Jeff isn’t just a talented actor, he’s also a pro at spinning the decks. His side career of DJ-ing has seen him play at venues across the country.

    Speaking on ITV’s Lorraine, Jeff described his playlist as being a mix of “soul, funk, reggae, old 60s stuff and lots of great beats.”

    He added: “That (DJ-ing) has been my out-of-work acting job, you always need something else. And DJ-ing was always mine. Still might be…”

    What else has Jeff Hordley been in?

    Jeff’s first TV appearance was in an episode of the kids’ hospital drama Children’s Ward.

    And interestingly, Emmerdale wasn’t his first rodeo in Soapland.

    Jeff starred in two episodes of Coronation Street – first as a nightclub manager in 1997, then as a character called Wayne the year after.

    Jeff Hordley leaves Emmerdale

    Fans were shocked in 2006 when Jeff announced he was quitting Emmerdale to pursue other acting projects.

    He then swapped television for treading the boards and appeared in a string of theatre productions – including playing Napoleon in Animal Farm.

    But after three years out, Jeff decided to step back into Cain’s shoes and has remained ever since.

    Zoe Henry and Jeff Hordley on smile on the British Soap Awards red carpet
    Zoe and Jeff have been together for 30 years (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    He’s married to his Emmerdale co-star Zoe Henry

    Jeff’s romantic history certainly couldn’t be more different to his on-screen alter ego.

    In real life, the actor is happily married to his Emmerdale co-star Zoe Henry, who plays vet Rhona Goskirk. The famous pair have been colleagues for 22 years, and a couple for 30!

    They met in 1994 when they were students at drama school and smitten Jeff said he knew straight away Zoe was the one.

    Jeff proposed on the day Zoe won Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Manchester Evening News’s theatre awards and they then got hitched in 2003.

    Zoe Henry and Jeff Hordley’s children

    Jeff is a dad-of-two.

    He and wife Zoe Henry welcomed their daughter Violet Percy into the world in 2005. Three years later, in April 2008, their son Stan Percy arrived, completing their family.

    Jeff and Zoe are also parents to two beloved fur babies – their pet dogs!

    Zoe Henry and Jeff Hordley on Celebrity Supply Teacher smiling
    Zoe and Jeff taught others about growing their own veg (Credit: BBC)

    He rehauled his life after major surgery

    Jeff was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 26. Tragically he lost his own mum to the same disease in 1979 after she suffered post-surgery complications.

    After undergoing an operation to have part of his bowel removed, Jeff then rehauled his lifestyle by quitting cigarettes and adopting a home-grown diet.

    He and wife Zoe have their own allotment, where they grow a huge range of fresh produce.

    Speaking on CBBC’s Lockdown Learning series Celebrity Supply Teacher in 2020, Jeff said: “We find that getting our hands in the earth and growing our own fruit and vegetables is a great way to connect with nature.”

    Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

    Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.30pm and 2.05pm.

  • James Chase admits: ‘He can’t get away with it’ as he eyes end of Tom abuse storyline

    James Chase admits: ‘He can’t get away with it’ as he eyes end of Tom abuse storyline

    Tom King in Emmerdale is one evil guy. Controlling and abusing wife Belle, he is becoming more and more intense as he tries to make sure she is totally and utterly under his spell.

    We know there’s even more to come as producer Laura Shaw has confirmed the storyline will run until the end of the year.

    And actor James Chase has some thoughts on exactly what he thinks should happen – and how Tom should get his comeuppance.

    Belle cowers as Tom raises his hand to hit her
    Tom is awful (Credit: ITV)

    James Chase knows Tom ‘has a shelf life’

    James Chase revealed to Entertainment Daily that he always knew Tom has a “shelf life”.

    He added: “He can’t get away with it.”

    James is very clear that Belle needs to see her husband punished for what he’s put her through.

    “She needs justice for what happened to her and I think also the viewer needs that. From all the hell we’ve seen Belle get put through, we have to see her win in the end or at the very least, for him to lose.”

    James continued to say Tom needs to go to “prison at least”. But he also revealed he is keen for his sister to return to the village. Tom’s sibling, Anya, hasn’t been seen or mentioned much since his return. However James has admitted: “I’ve always wondered about his sister.

    “It would be interesting to see how he’d react to that. Obviously he’s said in the past that he isn’t that close to her anyway but it would be interesting just to see how he would react and if it would change anything in anyway.”

    Does Anya know something about Tom’s behaviour? Is that why he keeps her at arm’s length? And could she be the key to exposing Belle?

    Tom and Belle arguing in the village in Emmerdale
    Tom has put Belle through hell (Credit: ITV)

    Tom King’s abuse of Belle in Emmerdale

    Belle is a shell of her former self since marrying Tom. She realised on her wedding night she had made a terrible mistake after his nasty outburst about her family. She ended up sleeping on the sofa.

    However, Belle has desperately been trying to make it work and keep the peace. Constantly giving in to him and never standing up to him, Belle has allowed him to control every aspect of her life. He has stopped her working, is isolating her from her family and has even sold her car and taken control of their finances.

    Recently, Belle found out she was pregnant. She hadn’t wanted to start a family yet – knowing Tom is not the ideal dad and also fearing for her own mental health. Tom, however, is desperate to be a father and despite Belle’s pleas to keep the news quiet, of course announced it to anyone who’d listen.

    Belle knew she couldn’t go through with the pregnancy and made an appointment at an abortion clinic. She discovered Tom was tracking her every move so realised she had to be cunning to keep her termination plans a secret.

    But can she cover her tracks enough? Or will she get caught out in the end? And what will Tom do when he does find out?

    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.

     

  • Piper the dog in huge danger, warns Emmerdale producer as Tom’s behaviour worsens

    Piper the dog in huge danger, warns Emmerdale producer as Tom’s behaviour worsens

    Emmerdale viewers have been rightly outraged over Tom King‘s abusive behaviour – but some have been more concerned about Piper the dog than victim Belle!

    Physically abusive and emotionally controlling and manipulative, we’re all agreed Tom is not a nice guy. But Belle is continuing to stay in the marriage – we’re not sure whether it’s out of love or fear, but she is determined not to let her mask slip.

    However, having now discovered she’s pregnant, Belle is devastated. Knowing there are so many reasons they can’t bring a baby into their lives, Belle has decided on a termination. But isn’t planning to tell Tom who is happily delivering the ‘good’ news to anyone who will listen.

    Emmerdale: Piper the dog
    Step away from Piper the dog, Tom! (Credit: ITV)

    Tom hurts Piper in Emmerdale

    Viewers have watched in complete horror as Tom used Piper to exert even more control over his wife. He didn’t like the fact his plot to make Belle think her mental health was at risk went wrong.

    Tom managed to convince her she had forgotten to take her meds, but instead of him then controlling her pills, she decided to check into a mental health unit for support. She also refused to let him visit or call.

    This obviously made him furious and he decided there was only one way he could get her back under his thrall – hurt Piper.

    Fans were aghast – far more so than over anything he’d done to Belle – as he injected Piper with medication that made it seem like she was very sick. When Lydia saw the poor pup, she revealed to Belle that it didn’t look like Piper would pull through.

    Belle, of course, immediately checked herself out of hospital then rushed home to find Piper had miraculously made a full recovery. Tom then manipulated Belle into believing it was due to her absence that Piper was so sick and now she was home, the dog felt better.

    He is EVIL.

    Tom with a syringe
    Even the look on his face is evil (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale fans complained in their hundreds

    The scenes saw more than 850 horrified fans complain about the storyline’s dark twist. However the soap used their social media to assure viewers that Minnie, who plays Piper, was fit and well!

    And the complaints haven’t been enough of a warning for show bosses to back off Piper as producer Laura Shaw has said the pooch is still in the firing line.

    “Piper will definitely have a future role in the story,” Laura has warned when speaking to Entertainment Daily! and other media.

    “It’s research-led,” she explained. “One of the things that we’ve found was that that is what abusers use. They will use family pets, people that you love, they will use them as weapons against you. So, this is all based on research. I promise you it’s not just us being mean to the dog for the sake of it.”

    Doesn’t make it okay though! Poor Piper.

    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.

     

  • Emmerdale spoilers: Belle sees sense and packs her bags to flee Tom

    Emmerdale spoilers: Belle sees sense and packs her bags to flee Tom

    In next week’s Emmerdale spoilers Belle will decide to leave Tom and viewers will be cheering with relief.

    However, Tom has learnt about Belle’s abortion and is going apoplectic with rage. He’s about to do some serious damage to himself and it could put paid to Belle’s plans to flee for good.

    Belle talking to Rachel on Emmerdale
    Rachel thinks Belle needs a break from her marriage – and so do we (Credit: ITV)

    Belle realises she has to leave

    Things are really bad for Belle as she continues to try and hide the truth about her abortion. She has told Tom she’s had a miscarriage and he is devastated. And, predictably, subtly placing the blame firmly at Belle’s door.

    Next week, Belle has an appointment with her Mental Health Care Coordinator, Rachel. When Rachel arrives at the house Belle is initially reluctant to open up. However she soon finds herself confessing that she told Tom she had a miscarriage rather than an abortion.

    As the session goes on, Belle worries that Rachel is beginning to realise the extent of Tom’s controlling behaviour. Belle wants Rachel to leave before she uncovers what really goes on behind closed doors, but Rachel is a professional and knows how to get to the truth.

    Rachel then encourages Belle to take a break from Tom. Belle is terrified but realises that Rachel is speaking sense.

    As she makes plans to leave her abusive husband, it looks like Belle might finally get away. Except for the fact across the village a catastrophe is about to stop her…

    Tom angry in a barn, on the warpath
    Tom is furious to learn what Belle has done (Credit: ITV)

    Emmerdale spoilers: Tom finds out the truth

    Tom’s determined to find a reason why Belle lost the baby and when he speaks to Noah he finds out Belle did not go for a walk with Piper and Amelia. Tom is fuming that his wife lied to him, especially when he learns Belle had an appointment in town. It all suddenly comes together (wonder if it’s anything to do with that parking ticket?) and Tom realises what really happened: Belle had an abortion.

    It’s unclear whether he’s more upset that she took control of something or that the baby is gone, but either way he goes mad. He is in one of Moira’s barns and he starts smashing it up with rage. Isn’t it about time she set her cows on him?!

    As Tom grabs an iron bar, he swings it back and accidentally hits the the barn’s rotary isolator behind him.

    The ensuing electric shock sends Tom flying across the barn and into a beam. He hits the ground, unconscious or worse…

    Tom unconscious in Emmerdale
    Will Tom survive his injuries? (Credit: ITV)

    Belle tries to flee

    Back at home Belle has very nearly got away. Her bags are packed, she’s called a taxi and is on her way to see Debbie in Scotland. Yay!

    Will Belle make it out of the village in time? And what has Tom done to himself?

    Emmerdale usually airs on weekdays at 7.30pm, with an hour long episode on Thursdays.

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