Paige Sandhu is a legend among Emmerdale fans thanks to her role as deranged Dales killer Meena Jutla.
And now she is starring in a new role, playing Indian royalty in an upcoming film, Lioness.
But it’s not just her latest role that’s got her fans interested in what Paige is up to.
So we thought we’d give you an update on what Paige Sandhu is doing now
Thankfully the real-life Paige is nothing like her murderous alter-ego, Meena! (Credit: ITV)
Paige Sandhu in Emmerdale
Paige left Emmerdale in 2022 after Meena terrorised the village for two years. Her alter-ego Ms Jutla became one of Emmerdale’s worst serial killers, murdering Leanna Cavanagh, Ben Tucker and Andrea Tate on-screen, and with the death of her friend Nadine and her own father on her conscience too.
Her camp, gleeful, over-the-top approach to the murders and her fondness for keeping souvenirs taken from the victims had the viewers gripped.
Meena terrorised the village and we LOVED it! (Credit: ITV)
What’s Paige been up to since leaving Emmerdale?
Since leaving Emmerdale, Paige has been busy.
She landed a starring role in an upcoming major film called Lioness.
The film follows two British-Punjabi women, across two time periods. The first is Sophia Duleep Singh, who is played by Paige.
Sophia was a Punjabi princess who grew up in London after her father was exiled to Britain. Sophia became one of the leading members of the Suffragettes, fighting for women’s rights.
The film also focuses on a married woman in the 1990s called Mehak, who is played by Aditi Rao Hydari.
Paige has become a fitness fan! (Credit: ITV)
What else has Paige been up to?
Paige has been hitting the gym hard and last year revealed she’d been following a new workout regime that had helped her become super-fit.
“I went into this process expecting to maybe get stronger and fitter but I definitely didn’t realise how much better my sleep would be, my energy levels would be and the feeling of accomplishment I have,” she shared on her Instagram stories. “Yay! I’m excited to see the continued improvements and the feeling of taking care of myself and my body is damn damn good.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
For two years Meena Jutla terrorised Emmerdale village killing off many of its residents. But she was finally caught and sent to prison – however some viewers think she might be on her way back.
With Manpreet receiving mysterious messages that she’s keeping very quiet about, there is speculation it could be her imprisoned sister Meena behind the texts.
Manpreet is being very secretive about her messages (Credit: ITV)
Manpreet getting mystery messages in Emmerdale
Last night (Monday February 24) Manpreet was getting messages to her phone. She was very secretive about them and claimed it was patient confidentiality. But something told us she wasn’t being truthful.
Next week, the messages are still appearing. And when Liam picks up Manpreet’s phone by accident, she reacts strangely. Chas is suspicious, but just what is Manpreet hiding?
Well, some fans are convinced they definitely know and are sure it’s Meena.
“Wonder who the mystery person texting Manpreet was – maybe her daughter Aiesha or even Meena from prison,” mused one on social media.Â
Another wasn’t so keen on the idea: “Oh no – please don’t go down the Meena road again!”
“If Meena has escaped and does return to the show, I will definitely be watching I loved Meena,” shared a third.Â
A fourth agreed: “John is a serial killer. My God, it would be delicious to have Meena back in the Village, too.”
Meena was last seen in court (Credit: ITV)
Is Meena Jutla returning to Emmerdale?
Emmerdale has said nothing at all about a comeback for the serial killer.
Paige gave hope for a return in June 2022, months after Meena’s exit. She spoke to OK! as the soap was gearing up for it’s 50th anniversary in October of that year.
She revealed: “You know what, never say never, anything goes in Emmerdale, especially for the 50th.
“It’s going to be the biggest and best year yet. In the past, historically, Emmerdale has broken other prisoners out of jail so it could happen,” she teased. “But we’ll see.”
However, despite her enthusiasm, just months later, she ruled out a return completely. Speaking to Digital Spy in October 2022, Paige said: “I have been asked about it a lot and it’s so lovely! I’m surprised that many people remember me, to be honest, because it’s been ages since I’ve been on.”
However she then said the one thing fans didn’t want to hear: “No, it’s not a possibility and it won’t be a possibility. I’ve loved playing her and I’ve loved working at Emmerdale, but I feel like the story came to an end.
“I mean, we did do everything, didn’t we? We went for it! I feel like to come back would be over-egging the story.”
Paige Sandhu hasn’t spoken about Meena recently (Credit: David Fisher/Shutterstock)
What has Paige said recently about a return to Emmerdale for Meena?
Her last comments about a potential comeback were in 2022. Three years have passed and Paige has remained silent on the subject. So could she have changed her mind?
She is currently filming a movie about the Suffragette movement called Lioness. Paige plays Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, granddaughter of the Lion of Punjab, youngest daughter of the deposed Maharajah Duleep and Queen Victoria’s Goddaughter.
She described the role as “A dream come true” when announcing it on her Instagram last year.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In Monday’s episode of Emmerdale (Monday, February 24), Manpreet Sharma played coy after receiving messages on her phone. But who is she texting?
While waiting for the vigil for the limo crash victims to begin, Manpreet’s phone beeped with a message. When she got her phone out, she hid the screen from Paddy, who was sitting next to her.
Upon seeing Paddy’s curiosity, Manpreet claimed that she couldn’t show him the message because of patient confidentiality.
Here we take a look at who she really could have been messaging.
Bob had been struggling with the anniversary of his son Heath’s death and the delivery of a headstone for his grave. His confused mind resulted in him trying to kiss Brenda.
Bob opened up to Manpreet as she tried her best to help him. Could their friendship have developed into something more? And could the messages Manpreet is receiving be flirty ones from Bob?
Could we see a return of Meena? (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock/ Composite EI!)
The return of Meena?
Meena Jutla was a fan favourite during her time in the Dales. The popular villain murdered several Emmerdale residents including Leanna Cavanagh, Andrea Tate and Ben Tucker.
Meena tried to blame her sister Manpreet for Andrea’s death, but it didn’t work and she was eventually sentenced to life in prison.
During an episode of Emmerdale last month, Manpreet mentioned Meena, causing fans to get excited about a potential return. Could Manpreet be in touch with her sister?
Is Manpreet messaging John? (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: Manpreet messaging John?
John Sugden has aroused suspicion since arriving in Emmerdale last year due to his shifty behaviour.
Fans think John could be hiding his true identity from boyfriend Aaron Dingle, while he’s also suspected of killing Nate.
Could Manpreet have discovered something about John and be messaging someone about him? Or perhaps she’s messaging John himself?
Fans are suspicious of Joe (Credit: ITV)
Could Manpreet be messaging Joe?
Another character shrouded in mystery is Joe Tate. Since arriving back in Emmerdale on Christmas Eve, he has been hiding some health struggles.
He’s also been desperate to get Noah to travel to Dubai. When this didn’t work, Noah was drugged and taken to a private hospital.
Now fans suspect that Manpreet is involved and was the one to supply the drugs to Joe. Could Manpreet be messaging Joe in order to try and cover up her mistake?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
What do you think of our story? Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think!
Anthony Fox is the latest in a line of evil Emmerdale characters to get their comeuppance after he was killed. The murder of Ruby’s abusive father is part of a huge whodunnit storyline, and although Aaron believes he dealt the fatal blow, some it doesn’t all add up to him being the killer.
We can’t be sorry to see Anthony go. He’s rotten to the core and quite possibily the vilest character to ever set foot in the Dales. His sick past has finally caught up with him. And he’s not the first Emmerdale character who got what was coming to them.
From Carl King to his nasty offspring Tom, here are nine other wicked ones who got their just desserts.
Tom King is now rotting in prison where he belongs (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: Tom King
Tom’s comeuppance felt like a very long coming after almost a year of witnessing his campaign of terror and abuse against Belle.
For months, fragile Belle suffered in silence as Tom physically, mentally and emotionally tortured her. He controlled her every move and continually gaslit Belle into believing it was her own fault. Tom spied on Belle through hidden cameras, tried to convince the locals she was mad and even faked Piper’s death in a cruel bid to cause distress.
After being pushed to the edge, Belle found the courage to report her husband’s crimes to the police. The discovery of crucial evidence led to Tom being arrested and put on trial.
On December 19, 2024, Emmerdale aired a format-breaking episode. Over an hour, it went back and forth between Tom and Belle giving evidence in court and the jury deliberating their verdict.
Tom put on a convincing performance, and the audience had to hold tight until the end to witness justice being served. We cheered along with the Dingles as Tom was found guilty on two counts and sentenced to three years in prison. As he was taken down, viewers heard the stories of real women who’d suffered the same abuse Belle had.
Carl was a violent bully who got his comeuppance (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: Carl King
No wonder Tom turned out the way he did, with such a narcissistic bully for a father.
Carl King entered the show as a typical arrogant womaniser, whose biggest crime was two-timing. But he graduated to full blown baddie status after murdering his dad, Tom Senior, in a gripping whodunit.
For six years Carl got away with his crime, which was ridiculous given that half the village knew what he’d done, including his own brothers. But his downfall came when he made an enemy of fellow psycho Cameron Murray.
Carl discovered Cameron was sleeping with his ex Chas Dingle and he didn’t want another man having her. He attempted to rape Chas in a jealous rage, but she fought back and knocked him out with a brick. Chas thought Carl was dead so she fled the scene. But he was still alive.
Cameron was the one who finished the job – and he smashed Carl’s skull in. Over eight million viewers tuned in to watch Carl’s comeuppance, which was part of the Emmerdale’s big 40th live episode.
Serial killer Meena is safely behind bars (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Meena Jutla
Mad Meena was deliciously evil and so much fun to watch, but the killing had to come to an end eventually. There wouldn’t have been anyone left in the village otherwise.
Meena had already claimed two victims before she even set foot in the Dales – her best friend Nadine, and her own father – but her lust for blood led her to kill again.
In total, the nutty nurse bumped off three villagers. She pushed Dr Liam’s teenage daughter Leanna off a bridge, bashed Ben Tucker’s brains out and left Andrea Tate to burn to death in a maze. All were calculated kills and Meena took sadistic delight in stalking her prey. She even got in the mood for murder by singing along to her favourite pop songs.
Meena attempted to kill Manpreet and Vinny, but Liam interrupted her plan. She went on the run and returned on Billy and Dawn‘s wedding day and held the couple at gunpoint. But the police weren’t far behind.
After being arrested, Meena stood trial and was found guilty. She’s serving 75 years in prison with no chance of release.
Cain was involved in one of the Emmerdale’s biggest whodunits (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Cain Dingle
In December 2011, village bad boy Cain found himself at the centre of a whodunnit, dubbed Judgement Day. The mechanic was attacked in the middle of the village by a mystery assailant and left for dead.
At that time Cain had fewer friends than enemies in the village. He’d destroyed John and Moira Barton’s marriage, impregnated 17-year-old Amy Wyatt and turned most of his family against him.
Six locals were in the frame for the crime, and the police were convinced Jai Sharma was their man. But in the end it turned out the least likely suspect, Zak, was their attacker. The Dingle patriarch decided his son needed to be taught a lesson for bringing disgrace to the family name.
Zak eventually ‘fessed up to what he’d done, and Cain (who had recovered by this point) forgave him.
Emma was pushed to her death off a viaduct (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: Emma Barton
Emma’s murderous past caught up with her in 2017 when she died after falling from the Hotten Bypass. But did she fall or was she pushed? That was the question on every fan’s lips.
She managed to convince her sons to give her another chance and Emma wormed her way back into James’s affections. But then Emma discovered James really loved Moira and she totally lost the plot.
Emma held James hostage in a remote cottage and tortured him. He managed to escape, but she pushed him over a motorway bridge, which led to the fatal Hotten Bypass Crash. The rampage continued as Emma abducted Moira’s baby boy Isaac then shot Finn dead in a confused state.
Hearing the news of her son’s death over the radio, traumatised Emma drove herself to the viaduct. She contemplated suicide and was seen falling, although it later transpired she’d been pushed to her death by Moira.
Cameron went out with a bang (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Cameron Murray
Unhinged Cameron Murray remains one of Emmerdale’s most iconic villains and his demise was nothing short of spectacular.
During his two year reign of terror, Cameron claimed the lives of three locals. His first victim was Carl King, who he bludgeoned to death during Emmerdale’s live 40th anniversary episode. In order to protect his secret, Cam claimed two more victims – farmhand Alex Moss and young mum Gennie Walker.
His crimes were discovered and Cameron was found guilty of triple murder and sent to prison. Months later he escaped jail and returned to the village for one final stand.
The dramatic seige took place in The Woolpack, where Cameron held a group of terrified locals hostage. Events reached a thrilling climax as Cameron attempted to drown former lover Chas in the pub’s flooded cellar. This time he wasn’t so lucky and ended up grabbing the live wire of an electric light bulb. He was killed instantly.
Pierce ended his days behind bars (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: Pierce Harris
Pierce Harris was introduced to the audience as the grieving widower of Paddy’s lover Tess. He grew close to Rhona and the pair embarked on a relationship.
Rhona hoped Pierce would be the one to mend her broken heart, but he turned out to be a monster. Behind closed doors, Pierce subjected Rhona to horrendous abuse and raped her on their wedding night.
She went to the police, reported the crime, and Pierce was sent to prison. After serving two years he was released and made his way back to the village. Still intent on controlling his ex, Pierce murdered Rhona’s boyfriend Graham Foster and kidnapped Vanessa Woodfield and her young son Johnny.
Rhona eventually outsmarted the villain by getting him to confess to Graham’s murder on tape. She then injected Pierce with a tranquilizer to hold him there until the police arrived to arrest him. Thanks to Rhona’s bravery, they had enough to charge Pierce and get him sent back inside. He ended up dying behind bars.
Craig turned out to be an evil rapist (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: Craig Reed
On first impressions, Lydia’s ex-boyfriend Craig seemed like a decent enough bloke. But he had a dark side.
He offered Lydia a cleaning job at his workplace, but started making creepy advances towards her. Then one night, Craig trapped Lydia inside his office, where he raped her.
Lydia suffered in silence for weeks afterwards before finding the courage to tell her family what had happened. From that moment on, Craig was a dead man.
In October 2023, Craig’s bloodied and bruised body was found in the middle of a field on Home Farm land. Every member of the Dingle family was in the frame for his murder. But flashback scenes revealed Craig’s killer wasn’t even human.
Although Craig was beaten black and blue by Sam, it Kim Tate’s horse, Ice, that finished the job. The creature got spooked and trampled Craig to death in front of Kim and Cain, who left the rapist to die a lonely painful death. Which was exactly what he deserved.
Evil Malone is now six feet under (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale characters that got their comeuppance: DI Malone
DI Mark Malone is now six feet under in Home Farm soil. And we’re not sorry about it.
The bent copper came to Emmerdale in 2020. He was the former lover of Harriet Finch and the boss of a criminal network, who drug dealer Will Taylor worked for. So there were scores to settle.
From beginning to end, Malone caused nothing but trouble. He blackmailed Will, Cain and Billy into working for him, then launched a campaign of terror against Dawn. This culminated with Malone trying to convince Dawn to take a fatal overdose of heroin.
Harriet came to Dawn’s rescue and clonked Malone over the head with an ornament. She thought she’d killed him, but he came back to life and tried to attack them both. Dawn grabbed a gun and shot Malone three times. And this time he really was dead.
Dawn and Harriet initially buried their victim in the churchyard, before Will moved the body to a secluded place in the Home Farm estate.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Fans of Emmerdale were thrown into a frenzy today as the name of fan-favourite Meena Jutla was invoked during the episode, sparking hopes she’d return. Murderous Meena was one of the soap’s most popular villains in her time, killing Liam’s teenage daughter and holding her own sister hostage, among other iconic crimes.
Manpreet brought up her name again tonight – and fans are hoping she might return to, ahem, ‘take out’ a few other members of the cast.
This came as Wendy’s recent gossip continued to make headlines. After unwittingly sharing details of her unsavoury past, the journalist from the Hotten Courier had forced her to dish the dirt on Rhona and Ella too, while she was at it.
Wendy came clean tonight (Thursday, January 16), and told an appalled Liam how she’d leaked details of Ella’s past.
Wendy’s been feeding gossip to the press (Credit: ITV)
“Never trust a journalist,” (charming) chided a disappointed Liam, as they attempted to dig her out of the hole.
As she came clean to Liam, Wendy was forced to tell Manpreet, Bob and Ella what she’d been up to. Wendy’s confession left Manpreet suitably disgusted. It was then that she brought up a certain blast from the past so that everyone would understand the gravity of the situation.
“See, I thought, after Meena, things couldn’t get any worse,” a disgusted Manpreet said, “but this could destroy us.”
Fans have long wanted to see Meena back (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale fans demand the return of Meena Jutla
This stray line from Manpreet was all viewers needed to get back down the rabbit hole of Meena Jutla fandom – assembling a hit list in anticipation.
“The mere mention of Meena is making me want them to bring her back and take half this lot out!! Writers must know half of this is pure dross. Ruby’s story deserves better than this,” wrote one fan.
“Need Meena back to get rid of dawn and a few other annoying people,” said another.
“Meena, come back and kill off Dismal. I’m begging you,” said a third.
“Love a little Meena mention,” wrote another, more innocently.
Fans have long hoped for the return of Meena to Emmerdale. And, with Dawn currently infuriating fans by poisoning Kim Tate and betraying Billy by snogging Joe, viewers would love to see her return to her murderous ways. Sorry Dawn.
Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. We want to hear your thoughts!
As far as soap villains go, Emmerdale has definitely had some of the best and most terrifying we’ve ever seen. There have been a wide spectrum of baddies over the years – from deranged mass murderers, to evil rapists and unhinged bunny boilers.
Most recently, it’s been the turn of twisted Tom King to inflict his terror on poor Belle Dingle and the rest of the village. At last, Tom’s crimes are about to catch up with him, but what happened to all the other bad guys and girls?
Here’s a look at 11 of the most legendary Emmerdale villains…
Serial killer Meena was about as evil as they come (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale best villains: Meena Jutla
As Emmerdale’s first female serial killer, Meena Jutla has already secured her place in soap history.
She was introduced as Manpreet’s estranged sister, and at first it seemed Meena’s only crime was seducing her brother-in-law. But how wrong we were. Meena was a psychopath, who’s already committed murder before she even set foot in the Dales. Her first two victims were her best friend Nadine and her own father.
Viewers quickly realised Meena was about as unhinged as they come. This was someone who took sadistic pleasure in stalking her prey, and liked to sing to pop music before going in for the kill.
In total, Meena killed three villagers. First, she pushed teen Leanna Cavanagh to her death off a bridge, Aaron Dingle‘s boyfriend Ben Tucker was bludgeoned over the head, and Andrea Tate was beaten then left to burn alive in a maze fire. The nutty nurse would have happily carried on and almost claimed Manpreet’s life before the police captured her.
Meena’s now safely behind bars, which is good news for the locals, but we miss her evil brilliance.
Cameron nearly ended Chas’s life (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Cameron Murray
Crazed Cameron Murray managed to rack up quite the body count during his two year reign of terror in Emmerdale.
The love rat turned killer when he bashed Carl King’s brains in with a brick during Emmerdale’s live 40th anniversary episode. Carl was threatening to out Cameron’s affair with Chas Dingle, so he found a way to silence him. Permanently.
Guilt-ridden, Cameron confessed what he’d done to best mate Alex Moss, but then panicked he’d tell the police. Cameron took Alex hostage before murdering him to ensure his secret was safe. Gennie Walker became his third victim when she threatened to expose his involvement in Carl’s death.
Cameron went to prison, but broke out and returned to the village, where he stormed The Woolpack with a shotgun and held the locals hostage. The dramatic siege reached a terrifying climax as Cameron tried to drown Chas in the pub’s flooded cellar. However, he ended up killing himself when he grabbed the live wire of an electric bulb.
Emmerdale villains: Graham Clark was a wolf in sheep’s clothing (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Graham Clark
What is it they always say about the quiet ones? No one would have suspected teacher Graham Clark was a murderer at first glance.
After a disastrous marriage to cold-hearted Chris Tate, Rachel Hughes thought she’d found the one in Graham. He helped her redecorate her home, cooked her lovely meals and even alphabetised her CD collection. But these weren’t just sweet gestures – Graham had a sinister agenda.
Gradually he took control of every aspect of Rachel’s life, even getting her to dye her blonde hair red to resemble his late wife. The penny finally dropped for Rachel while the couple were out walking in the countryside. Rachel realised Graham had murdered his missus and made her death look like suicide.
She tried to flee, but there was no escape. Graham pushed Rachel off a clifftop to her death.
With his deadly secret still safe he turned his attentions to Rachel’s best mate Kathy Glover. He almost killed her in a car crash, but she managed to escape. Graham wasn’t so lucky and died when the vehicle exploded into a ball of flames.
Carl King was a violent abuser (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best villains: Carl King
There aren’t many nice things we can say about Carl King. He was spoilt, arrogant, reckless and didn’t give a damn who he hurt.
But what tipped Carl into villain territory was when it was revealed he’d killed his own dad! Carl pushed old Tom King (who to be fair wasn’t that nice either) out of a window on his wedding day.
Carl got away with murder for years, and god knows how because practically half of the village knew he’d done it. But his big downfall came when he crossed killer Cameron Murray.
Carl was obsessed with his ex Chas Dingle, but then discovered she and Cameron were having an affair. Consumed with jealousy and rage, Carl attempted to rape Chas, but she hit him over a head with a brick and fled, believing he was dead.
He was still very much alive, and when Cameron found Carl he decided to finish off the job. Carl’s death was part of Emmerdale’s 40th live episode and was watched by an audience of 8.8 million.
Tom has put Belle through hell (Credit: ITV)
Tom King
Like father, like son, Tom has shown himself to be one of the worst Emmerdale villains: a violent bully and abuser. But the vet’s disturbing behaviour began at a young age.
When he was just 13, Tom – or Thomas as he was known back then – started a campaign of harassment against Chas Dingle, the woman he believed had killed his father. The twisted teen sent Chas disturbing pictures, bombarded her with anonymous calls, vandalised her home, and even threw a glass bottle at her.
After his wicked antics were exposed, Tom fled to Saudi Arabia to live with his mum. He returned 10 years later, all grown up and seemingly a changed character. But that was all a front, as poor Belle Dingle discovered.
The young couple got married in February 2024 and appeared the picture of happiness. But behind closed doors, Tom was exhibiting abusive and controlling behaviour. He physically, emotionally and mentally tortured his wife, isolating her from her family and friends and continually gaslit her into believing it was all her fault.
Tom’s crimes have been wicked and shocking to see, but justice is finally about to be served. And we will not be sorry to see the back of him.
Cross Emmerdale villain Kim Tate at your peril (Credit: ITV)
Kim Tate
No Emmerdale villains list is complete with out the queen, Kim Tate. She’s deliciously wicked, rather than being evil to the core.
Kim has committed so many sins over the years it’s impossible to reel them all off. But she’s been a thief, a fraudster, an abductor, a manipulator, liar and cheat. You get the picture.
But despite Kim’s catalogue of crimes, she’s only actually killed one person. And that wasn’t through violent means.
Who will ever forget that iconic moment when she stood by and watched as Frank suffered a fatal heart attack on Home Farm’s living room carpet? The look of satisfaction on Kim’s face as she saw the life fade from her estranged husband, and how she used her compact mirror to check whether Frank had stopped breathing? So terrifically twisted.
Lachlan White killed four people during his time in the village (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best villains: Lachlan White
Lachlan White went from being a socially awkward kid to one of soap’s most prolific serial killers.
The only son of Chrissie White, Lachlan was characterised as a bit of weird loner. He did strike up a friendship with Belle Dingle, and encouraged her to seek help over her mental health problems. But that’s really where his niceness ended.
Events took a sinister turn when Lachlan developed an unhealthy infatuation with Alicia Gallagher. Believing his feelings were reciprocated, Lachlan committed a sexual assault on Alicia. Chrissie called the police on her son and he was placed on the sex offender’s register for two years.
After that, things spiralled really out of control. The teenager accidentally shot his grandfather Lawrence, then deliberately caused a car crash which claimed the life of Lawrence and Chrissie.
He murdered lovely Gerry Roberts by bashing his skull in with a rock, then killed Terry Bates, a conman who was posing as Gerry’s uncle. He nearly added three more bodies to count – Robert Sugden, Liv Flaherty, and his aunt Rebecca White, but they lived to tell the tale.
Lachlan was eventually captured and sent to prison. But that didn’t stop him hiring his dad to burn down Wishing Well Cottage in a final act of revenge against the Dingles. What a lovely lad, eh?
Laurel’s life was made hell by Emmerdale villain Sally Spode (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sally Spode
Sally was the wife of a vicar, but there was nothing holy about this dangerous woman.
After her marriage crumbled, Sally turned to her ex-boyfriend Ashley Thomas for help. He and wife Laurel took pity on Sally and welcomed her into Mulberry Cottage with open arms. But little did they know they’d invited a lunatic into their lives.
Sally developed an unhealthy obsession with Ashley. She wanted him, and therefore Laurel had to go. In scenes fit for a horror film, Sally locked her love rival in the church then set fire to the building. Somehow Laurel managed to make it out alive, but Sally wasn’t done yet.
The craziness continued as Sally drugged Ashley to try to get him into bed. She kidnapped Edna Birch’s dog, held little Angelica King hostage and even made claims that she was pregnant with Ashley’s baby. No wonder why Laurel saw red and nearly pushed her off a balcony.
In the end, Sally was declared mentally ill and sectioned.
The former couple knew each other from their time living together at a children’s home. Lydia, then known as Jenny Finn, had become pregnant and gave birth to their stillborn son, Toby.
33 years later, Lydia and Craig reconnected and she told him about their baby. Craig offered Lydia a cleaning job, but then began to make creepy advances towards her. Frightened by his behaviour, Lydia told Craig she was quitting, but he refused to let her go. He trapped Lydia in his office and raped her.
After suffering in silence for weeks, Lydia bravely told her family what had happened. Nearly every member of the Dingles was out for Craig’s blood, so when he was discovered dead in the middle of a field it looked as if one of them had finished him off.
The truth was somewhat more shocking and bizarre. The rapist was actually killed by the hooves of Kim Tate’s horse, Ice, who got spooked and trampled Craig to death.
Emma Barton was mad and bad (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best villains: Emma Barton
Emma Barton’s problem was that she really loved her family. A little too much.
The estranged wife of James and mum to Pete, Ross and Finn came to the village looking for forgiveness for walking out on them years previously. She somehow managed to worm her way back into their lives, but the happy family reunion did not last long.
Realising James’s heart lay with sister-in-law, Moira, Emma held him hostage (while in her wedding dress). He escaped her clutches, but she then pushed him over the edge of a bridge, causing the Hotten Bypass Crash.
Emma also made out she had motor neurone disease to try and keep her boys close. She abducted Moira’s newborn baby son, Isaac, and accidentally shot and killed her youngest lad, Finn.
She also met a grisly end when Moira shoved her off a viaduct.
Evil Emmerdale villain Pierce made Rhona’s life hell (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pierce Harris
Widower Pierce Harris came into Rhona Goskirk‘s life when his wife, Tess, died. She had been having an affair with Rhona’s husband Paddy at the time of her death. Grieving and all over the place it probably wasn’t the best idea for either of them, but Pierce and Rhona fell into a relationship.
He seemed perfect on the surface: smart, sophisticated and handsome. But beneath the surface lay a controlling abuser. He forced himself on Rhona even though she wasn’t in the mood and grew abusive.
Rhona’s best mate Vanessa knew what he was and tried to get her friend away from him, but Rhona wouldn’t listen. She went ahead and married Pierce, but when he raped her on their wedding day, she decided she had to go to the police.
Pierce was sent to prison, but when he was released he came straight back for Rhona. He murdered her then-boyfriend Graham Foster and took Vanessa hostage. Rhona eventually set him up so the police would arrest him again.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Weddings in Emmerdale are never boring, that’s for sure! From committing bigamy, death on the big day and being jilted at the altar, there’s always plenty of drama.
And that’s only the beginning! Here’s some of the best and most memorable Emmerdale weddings.
Kerry never married Dan (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Kerry and Dan’s bigamous wedding
When Kerry and Dan tied the knot, everyone was delighted – except Kerry’s other husband that is! Kev showed up at the reception and announced he was Kerry’s husband, baffling the wedding guests, the groom AND the bride in equal measures! It turned out, he and Kerry had tied the knot in Las Vegas.
Kerry hadn’t believed their marriage was genuine and had forgotten all about it. A punch up ensued, obvs, but Kerry and Dan eventually reconciled – they never made it down the aisle properly though.
Meena kidnapped Dawn and Billy on their wedding day. (Credit: ITV)
Dawn and Billy’s murderous chauffeur
If you’re looking for dramatic wedding days, then look no further than Dawn Taylor and Billy Fletcher’s big day.
Serial killer Meena Jutla was on the run when she returned to Emmerdale on ex-boyfriend Billy’s wedding day. She posed as the wedding chauffeur, kidnapped Dawn and Billy and held them at gunpoint on the viaduct.
Evil Meena claimed she’d hurt Dawn’s surrogate mum, Harriet, as well as her little boy, Lucas. Meena fled, shooting Leyla as she went. Harriet and Lucas were fine, and Meena eventually went to jail for her crimes.
Tina humiliated Luke at the altar (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Tina’s revenge on Luke in Emmerdale weddings
In 1994, Ben Dingle had a fight with Luke McAllister. Ben died, though it was later discovered that he had an undiagnosed heart condition.
With the families at war, everyone was surprised when Ben’s sister Tina got together with Luke a year later. She announced her pregnancy and the pair planned their wedding. Luke gave up his A levels, Tina spent all his money and encouraged him to sell family heirlooms.
As the Dingles came round to the relationship, the wedding day loomed. And on the big day, Tina announced she wasn’t actually pregnant and she wasn’t going to marry Luke – it had all been revenge for Ben’s death!
Luke eventually died in an accident, after Tina rejected him, and wracked with guilt, Tina left Emmerdale.
Tina’s wedding day was also the arrival of Tina’s cousin, Mandy Dingle!
Carl didn’t suspect a thing at his wedding to Chas (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas jilts Carl at the altar
Perhaps she was inspired by her cousin’s revenge plan because 15 years later, Chas Dingle took very similar revenge on Carl King. He’d cheated on her with Eve Jenson and Chas knew everything.
Careful with that gas, Paul. It could… oh, never mind (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale weddings: Mandy and Paul’s big, explosive day
The viewers knew that Paul Ashdale was a nasty piece of work, but bride to be Mandy Dingle was oblivious. When brave Liv Flaherty went to confront abusive Paul at the wedding venue, there was a shock in store. Jimmy King accidentally drove a haulage truck into the barn, and Paul was pinned under debris, and Liv refused to help. As she walked away, the barn exploded and Paul was killed.
Betty and Seth’s non-wedding
Seth Armstrong and Betty Eagleton had been sweethearts in the past and rekindled their romance after 50 years in 1994.
They decided there was no point in getting married after so long but instead they just had the party in 1940s costumes, with the whole village turning out to wish them well.
Poor Butch only just managed to say his vows (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emily and Butch’s tragic deathbed wedding
Cute couple Emily Wylie and Butch Dingle were planning a wedding when tragedy struck. When the brakes failed on a minibus run by Tate Transport, the bus ploughed into a haulage lorry. Butch Dingle was so badly injured in the crash and doctors told him the sad news that they couldn’t save his life. He and Emily said their wedding vows on his deathbed. Sob!
Butch’s big Dingle funeral introduced the characters of Cain, Charity and Shadrach.
Nicola was fuming with sister Bernice when she found out she was sleeping with the groom (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Carlos and Nicola’s bouquet battle
Nicola Blackstock came to Emmerdale to track down her long-lost sister Bernice. It wasn’t long before she’d fallen head over heels for chef Carlos, fallen pregnant, and they got engaged. Except Nicola’s pregnancy was made up, and Bernice was also sleeping with Carlos.
When Bernice found out the truth about the pregnancy, on Nicola’s wedding day, she wanted Nicola to fess up. But when her own secret romance with the groom was revealed, things got physical. Nicola and Bernice had a tussle in the churchyard, and the bride beat up the groom with her bouquet.
Matthew and Anna’s car crash of a day
Matthew King was tying the knot with Anna De Souza despite him watching her dad die in front of her. When his brother Carl revealed the truth, Anna fled. The brothers brawled and Matthew tried to run Carl over. When Anna appeared, he swerved, and crashed into the gatepost. He was thrown through the windscreen and died in Anna’s arms.
Andy and Jo had a very romantic prison wedding in Emmerdale(Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jo and Andy’s prison ceremony
Talk about toxic – Jo Stiles lied and manipulated her way into a relationship with Andy Sugden. The pair had a prison wedding – just like every girl dreams of – because Andy was banged up.
Things got very dark after his release, when he began abusing Jo and even put her in hospital with broken bones. He told the village she had abused him and when everyone believed him, she left Emmerdale forever.
Jonny and Paul tied the knot (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Paul and Jonny’s historic day
Paul Lambert fell for handsome Aussie Jonny Foster. Their relationship was full of ups and downs, but their civil partnership in 2008 was the first in any prime time soap.
FINALLY Robron made it official but there was no happily ever after for this fairytale couple (Credit: Shutterstock/ITV)
Emmerdale: Robron’s long awaited wedding
After a lot of drama along the way, fan faves Robert Sugden and Aaron Dingle – Robron – tied the knot in 2017. It was the day after the birth and death of Aaron’s baby sister, Grace, but mum Chas urged him to go ahead. Finally the pair made it official in the pagoda in the village.
Debbie’s wedding to Pete ended in death and destruction (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Debbie’s lies bring her wedding day crashing down in Emmerdale
We’ve saved the most dramatic wedding until last! When Debbie Dingle and Pete Barton got engaged they planned a gorgeous country-fair themed wedding. Except Debbie was having a steamy affair with Pete’s brother Ross and all was about to be revealed!
At the reception, a recording of Debbie and Ross admitting to their affair was played to the stunned guests. But that was just the beginning of the drama. At the haulage yard, Chrissie White was confronting cheating husband Robert about his behaviour. She set fire to his car in revenge, and some nearby cans of propane exploded. One of the gas canisters shot into the air, and hit an approaching helicopter. Despite the pilot’s best efforts the chopper plummeted into the village hall.
Ruby Haswell died, Cain rescued son Kyle in the nick of time, and Val Pollard, trapped in the mirror maze with sister Diane Sugden, told rescuers to save her sister first. But Val’s selflessness came at a price as she was impaled by a shard of broken glass.
Bride Debbie was injured and taken away to hospital while Pete and Ross fought seemingly to the death. Pete thought he’d killed his brother, and buried him in a shallow grave, only for Ross to show up again a few weeks later.
Definitely the most dramatic wedding Emmerdale has seen – so far!
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Emmerdale know how to give us an iconic comeback. The past few years have seen the return of legendary characters such as Kim Tate, Aaron Dingle and most recently, Ross Barton.
This lot belong in the Dales, and it’s got us thinking about which other former villagers we’d love to see again.
Here is our dream wish list of the 11 people we want to see make a comeback ASAP…
Robert and Aaron were the real deal (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
The scheming Sugden was one of Emmerdale’s most interesting and complex characters. But it was Rob’s addictive romance with Aaron Dingle that made his popularity soar.
The couple’s adoring army of supporters followed their journey, and were gutted when it came to an end in 2019. Robert was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the manslaughter of his sister Victoria’s rapist Lee Posner. It has since transpired Lee’s brother, Luke, may have been to blame for his sibling’s fatal injuries. Now this sounds like an obvious get-out-of-jail card for Aaron’s ex.
So far, four actors have played the role of Robert. But we don’t think the fans would be happy unless Ryan Hawley stepped back into the character’s shoes. His on-screen chemistry with Danny Miller was a major part of Robert’s appeal.
If Robert did make a return, then he’s got a rival for Aaron’s affections – in the form of his own half-brother! Viewers have already speculated that John’s arrival in the village is laying the groundwork for an explosive love triangle. We’d love to watch Robert and John fighting it out over Aaron, and we know who we’d have money on to win. What Robert Sugden wants, he normally gets.
Adam is needed back in the village (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Adam Barton
Shoutout to Adam Barton. Wherever you are, mate, then you’re needed back in Emmerdale.
The character’s name has come up in conversation in recent weeks, amidst Moira’s battle with a non-cancerous brain tumour. After missing her life-saving surgery, Moira has decided to go and spend some time with her eldest son.
But will she return to the village with Adam in tow? We certainly hope so.
Adam was last seen on screen in January 2018 when he went on the run after deciding to take the rap for Moira over Emma Barton’s murder. Opting for a life as a fugitive, Adam fled to France and has been laying low ever since. But this is Soapland, so surely the coast is clear for him to make a comeback? Actor Adam Thomas has always expressed an interest in revisiting the role he played for nine years.
Not only would Adam’s return give Moira a boost, and Matty some much needed sibling support, but it might also give his ex-wife, Victoria a purpose. She’s been like a lost soul since her break-up with Jacob, and aside from interfering in John’s life, what actually does Vic do?
Adam and her were great together – we’d like to see them get a second chance at happiness.
Sorely missed mother of the village (Credit: ITV)
Diane Sugden
Diane was such an amazing, comforting presence, no wonder why all the locals loved her.
As landlady of The Woolpack for 17 years, Diane was the beating heart of the village and a friend to all. The Sugden matriarch also dealt with her fair share of drama – from surviving cancer, to being stabbed in the dark, and ripped off by her conman lover.
Actress Elizabeth Estensen, who played Diane for 22 years, announced her retirement in 2021. In a statement at the time she said: “I now feel the time has come to say goodbye. Emmerdale will always remain special to me.”
It seems highly unlikely we’ll ever see Diane back on a permanent basis, but we’d love her to pop back just for a little catch up. If nothing else, then just to check in with her loved ones. Diane’s bestie Chas has just come off the back of the toughest two years of her life so we’re sure she’d appreciate a visit.
We think Joe Tate has a lot more to give (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale characters we want back: Joe Tate
It feels like there’s unfinished business as far as Joe Tate is concerned, which is why we’re in favour of him returning.
The orphaned son of Chris Tate and Rachel Hughes made a huge impact when he came to the village in 2018 under the alias of Tom Waterhouse. With his scheming and womanising ways Joe quickly proved to be a chip off the old block. But just as Chris had done, Joe underestimated Kim Tate – to his peril.
After realising Joe had been fleecing her, Kim ordered Graham Foster to dispose of him. At the same time, Joe was attacked by Cain in revenge for him breaking off his engagement to Debbie.
Joe was presumed dead for five months, until it was revealed he’d escaped with his life and £100k of Kim’s cash. As far as we know he’s still living it up in Monte Carlo, but we think it’s time he came back to settle some old scores.
Why has Debbie not been recast? (Credit: ITV)
Debbie Dingle
Debbie was such a major part of the Dingle family that we’d never rule out her return.
Cain and Charity’s feisty daughter relocated to Scotland back in February 2021 with her young son Jack. Debbie had also been living with her grandfather Zak until his recent passing, and was the one who broke the sad news.
Speculation was rife amongst fans that Debbie would accompany Zak’s body back to the village. But when Cain arrived in Scotland to see his daughter she told him she couldn’t face the funeral.
So it seems we’re going to have a wait a while longer to see Debbie again. But we’re sure Cain, Charity and Sarah would all love to have her back. And the return of Debbie’s ex, Ross Barton, throws up even more enticing possibilities.
Sadie King was a master manipulator (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jimmy King’s former missus was a ruthless, money-hungry seductress, who was played to perfection by the brilliant Patsy Kensit. After wrecking havoc for two years, Sadie left the village in shame when she was double-crossed by Cain Dingle.
Nearly two decades have passed, but can you imagine the scenes if Cain ever saw Sadie again? And what would Charity do if she came face-to-face with her former foe? Even the thought of that showdown is exciting. Then there’s soppy old Jimmy. He was like putty in Sadie’s hands – we’re sure she could get under his skin again and threaten his marriage to Nicola.
We could also see Sadie teaming up with fellow queen, Kim Tate. Together, these two would be a force to be reckoned with!
Andy Sugden was one of Emmerdale’s best-loved characters (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Andy Sugden
If Emmerdale really want to put the Sugdens back on the map, then Andy must come home.
The iconic character, played by Kelvin Fletcher from 1996 to 2016, grew up on our screens and was loved by millions. Andy was at the centre of so many brilliant storylines, and could always be relied on to deliver the drama.
Every year, rumours start swirling about Andy coming back to the village. There’s definitely still a place for him there, with old friends and family ties. Might we see him back in 2025?
Serial killer Meena would come back with a bang (Credit: ITV)
Meena Jutla
Serial killer Meena is safely behind bars, serving life for multiple murders. But is it wrong we wish she’d stage a prison break?
Soap villains don’t get much better than this mad lass. During her reign of terror in the Dales, Meena killed Leanna Cavanagh, Andrea Tate and Ben Tucker. And she’d already claimed the lives of her best mate Nadine and her own dad. Yikes!
Meena was different from a lot of baddies in that she was so unhinged and psychotic it was actually entertaining to watch. She stalked her prey with pleasure and made her own playlist of murder karaoke! Actress Paige Sandhu also did an incredible job of playing such a crackers character.
So as ludicrous as the plot would have to be, we’d relish the return of the village’s answer to Villanelle. And there’s one or two locals we wouldn’t mind Meena adding to her body count. No names mentioned…
We want Nicky back in the Miligan family fold (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale characters we want back: Nicky Miligan
One of the biggest mistakes Emmerdale made this year was getting rid of Nicky Miligan.
Things were just starting to get interesting for the character what with Ruby’s arrival and watching him referee her and Caleb’s toxic spats. But after discovering his parents had conspired to cover up Ruby running over Ethan Anderson, Nicky disowned them and left for new life overseas with boyfriend, Sonny. To be fair, we can’t blame him on that one.
Nicky hasn’t spoken to his folks since, and Ruby is desperate for a reconciliation. Caleb would also surely welcome his son’s assistance as he continues his bid for Dales domination. And Nicky has already shown he can be useful right hand man – he certainly did a very good job of conning poor Gabby Thomas.
Ruby has gone to visit him now, but he still won’t forgive dad Caleb. And with news of daughter Stephanie’s arrival incoming, it’s surely a great time to reunite the Miligan family and put them on top of Emmerdale.
There was never a dull moment with Bernice (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice Blackstock
Bernice brought her own brand of ridiculous, camp entertainment and the village is definitely less fun without her in it.
The legendary former landlady had been causing chaos since her arrival 1998. But given her brilliance, we think Emmerdale did Bernice dirty by giving her such a rushed – and frankly rubbish – exit. Viewers will remember Bernice was forced to flee to Spain after wracking up a fraudulent debt. She sold her B&B shares to sister Nicola, and with that she was off.
Gabby gave Paddy a recent update on Bernice, saying she’s ‘causing carnage on the Costa’ and ‘falling out of love every five minutes’. She also admitted how much she misses her mum. We do too, Gabs.
Wouldn’t it be great to see Bernice back?
We’d love nothing more than a Belle and Piper reunion (Credit: ITV)
Piper the dog
Our comeback wish list wouldn’t be complete without a certain fur baby. The adorable Piper.
Belle was left heartbroken earlier this year after Tom led her to believe her beloved pet had been run over and killed. The evil vet watched his wife grieve for Piper as he orchestrated a fake funeral. But then it was revealed Piper was alive and well and had been secretly re-homed with another couple.
Tom’s wicked web of deceit is finally starting to unravel, and we’re hoping the writers are going to find a way to bring Piper back into Belle’s life. After all the hell she’s been through, she deserves a happy ending with her four-legged friend.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
Emmerdale has had more than its fair share of brilliant episodes. So many in fact, that it’s hard to pick a favourite. So instead we picked 12 of the best! Here are what we think are the best episodes of Emmerdale, ever.
The plane crash transformed Emmerdale as a soap (Credit: ITV)
The plane crash 1993
Emmerdale’s plane crash may have happened more than 30 years ago, but it’s still legendary among soap fans. The Beckindale Air Disaster marked the beginning of a new era for Emmerdale in many ways -Â the renaming of the village from Beckindale to Emmerdale, the end of several storylines and the start of many more!
Four characters were killed – Mark Hughes, Elizabeth Pollard (Eric’s wife), Archie Brooks and Leonard Kempinski – while Chris Tate was badly injured and left unable to walk.
The storyline was quite controversial at the time because it came just five years after the real-life Lockerbie disaster. But it was a hit with viewers and it transformed Emmerdale from a quiet countryside soap into the must-see television it is today.
Kim came back from the dead and shocked Frank into a heart attack! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Kim leaves Frank to die 1997
Kim Tate‘s marriage to Frank was dead and buried by 1997. She had cheated on him with Dave Glover, and thought for a while that baby James was Dave’s, only to discover that Frank was his dad.
When Dave was killed in a fire, rescuing little James, Kim well and truly went off the rails! She hired a lookalike to drive her car round the village, so everyone thought she was still there, then ran off to the Caribbean. But tragedy struck when the lookalike crashed the car into the lake and died. Frank identified the body as Kim and was arrested for murder!
When Kim returned, the shock of seeing his ‘dead’ wife caused Frank to have a heart attack. Kim coldly watched him die, without going for help. And as he breathed his last she checked for signs of life with the mirror from her handbag – then reapplied her make-up and left him on the floor.
Sarah didn’t make it out of the barn fire (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sarah Sugden dies in the barn fire 2000
The Sugdens were were struggling with money, and Sarah Sugden had been having a steamy secret affair with farmhand Richie.
Adopted son Andy was determined to help them out of their financial hole and he came up with the idea of burning down a barn so dad Jack could claim on the insurance.
But he didn’t know that Sarah and Richie were inside when he lit the match. Richie made it out, but Sarah died in the flames.
Tricia was rescued by Marlon but died in hospital (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Best Emmerdale episodes: Tricia’s death 2003/4
Another dramatic death! Tricia Dingle was super popular with the Emmerdale residents and viewers alike. But on New Year’s Eve 2003, she was outside when a huge storm hit the village.
Lightning struck the Woolpack and the chimney collapsed, burying poor Tricia. Husband Marlon found her and called for help but though Tricia made it to hospital, she later died of her injuries. SOB!
The live episode in 2012 featured two weddings, two births and a murder! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
The 40th anniversary live episode 2012
One of the best live episodes of a soap, ever! The live episode to celebrate Emmerdale’s 40th anniversary featured the weddings of Chas Dingle to Dan Spencer, and Katie Sugden to Declan Macey, and the births of Molly Sharma, and Jack Sugden Jr. AND a murder!
When Carl King tried to rape newly wed Chas she whacked him with a brick and believed she’d killed him. But actually Carl was finished off by future Dales serial killer Cameron Murray.
Cameron escaped from jail and held up the Woolpack at gunpoint (Credit: ITV)
The Woolpack siege 2013
Cameron’s killing spree that began with the live episode in 2012 came to an end a year later with a dramatic siege at the Woolpack. In one of the most tense episodes of soap ever, he held drinkers at gun point, shot Alicia Metcalfe and then pursued Chas and Debbie through the flooded pub cellar. Cameron was electrocuted and his murderous rampage in the Dales came to an end.
Emma pushed James from the road bridge and started a tragic chain of events (Credit: ITV)
The Hotten by-pass crash 2016
FIVE storylines came together in the thrilling crash that took place in October 2016. Emma Barton had been holding estranged husband James hostage in a Misery-style revenge plot.
When he escaped, she tracked him down to the road bridge – wearing her wedding dress, of course! – and shoved him off.
James plummeted on to the by-pass and on to a car driven by dementia-sufferer Ashley Thomas. Ashley’s car flipped and caused Pierce Harris to collide with a lorry, which then caused Robert Sugden and Aaron Dingle‘s car to leave the road and plunge into a lake. Oh, and they just happened to have kidnapped Lachlan White and put him in the boot.
Just seconds later, Rhona and Paddy drove straight into the carnage and flipped their van as they tried to avoid it. It was one of the most impressive stunts in Emmerdale history!
Holly’s death was quietly devastating (Credit: ITV)
Best Emmerdale episodes: Holly Barton’s death 2016
Sometimes the best episodes are the huge stunts and sometimes it’s the quiet, devastating episodes that hit hardest. Holly Barton’s death from a drug overdose definitely fits the latter category.
Holly lay dead in bed, while mum Moira pottered around at home. And when she finally went to check on her daughter and found her dead, the shock was real. It’s almost a decade since Holly died, but her tragic demise still affects her family.
In 2018 Charity bravely faced her abuser in court (Credit: ITV)
Charity faces Bails in court 2018
Charity Dingle has been through a lot in her time in Emmerdale but perhaps the most heart-wrenching was when she finally faced her past. Charity revealed that she’d been sexually exploited by crooked cop DI Bails, and had a baby boy.
With the help of her new-found son, Ryan, she bravely faced her abuser in court in a very emotional episode.
Chas and Paddy said a sad goodbye to baby Grace (Credit: ITV)
Best Emmerdale episodes: Grace dies 2018
Chas and Paddy Dingle knew their baby Grace was going to die almost as soon as she was born, but that didn’t make the loss any easier. In a devastatingly sad episode, the new parents cuddled their little girl – who lived for just 29 minutes – as they imagined the future she might have had.
Meena was cold and remorseless as she killed Leanna (Credit: ITV)
Meena murders Leanna 2021
There’s very little we enjoy more than an Emmerdale serial killer and Meena Jutla was one of the best! Her utter lack of remorse as she stalked her prey made her super scary.
When birthday girl Leanna Cavanagh twigged that Meena wasn’t the caring nurse she pretended to be, Meena pursued her through the graveyard. The chase ended up on the bridge, where Meena pushed Leanna. When the fall didn’t kill the teenager, Meena climbed down and finished her off. It was brutal but gripping stuff.
Marlon was looking for the engagement ring he’d bought Rhona when he had his stroke (Credit: ITV)
Best Emmerdale episodes: Marlon’s stroke 2022
When Marlon proposed to a delighted Rhona, he rushed home to find the ring – only to suffer a stroke. Marlon’s experience as he lay helpless on the floor, waiting for help to come, was praised for raising stroke awareness. And his long recovery won actor Mark Charnock praise, too.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Emmerdale’s bad girls are iconic! The soap has a long history of vindictive, manipulative, and often downright evil female villains!
In today’s episode of Emmerdale, Kim Tate played petty games with estranged husband Will as he made himself a sandwich. And while she was dropping his bread on the floor, in the background Billie Eilish was singing ‘Bad Girl’.
It was the perfect soundtrack for Kim, who is the quintessential Emmerdale bad girl! So we thought we’d round up the best of the rest.
Here are the baddest of Emmerdale’s bad girls!
Kim made husband Will dig his own grave (Credit: ITV)
Kim Tate: the finest of all Emmerdale’s bad girls!
Kim’s schemed, cheated, scammed, and watched her own husband die at her feet in her race to rule the village. She’s queen of Home Farm and somehow, despite the things she’s done, we’re still rooting for her! #TeamTate
Meena was the baddest bad girl of all (Credit: ITV)
Meena Jutla
When we said soem Emmerdale bad girls were proper evil, it was Meena Jutla we were thinking of. Meena was an iconic Dale serial killer with a bloodlust and body count that put her firmly into the Emmerdale legend category.
She killed Leanna Cavanagh, Andrea Tate and Ben Tucker, and had already killed her best friend Nadine and her own father. Meena’s now safely behind bars. But we sort of wish she’d escape!
Charity has done all sorts (Credit: ITV)
Charity Dingle
Charity’s all about family now, but for a long time she was top of the scheming charts. She was determined to get rich and she wasn’t afraid to use her Dingle charms to get what she wanted.
She has made some very bad choices, got involved with some very bad men – and some that were just bad for her. But has she finally settled down with fourth husband Mackenzie Boyd? Only time will tell!
Ashley’s niece Jasmine turned out bad (Credit: ITV)
Jasmine Thomas
Jasmine arrived in Emmerdale to live with her uncle, Ashley, and his wife Laurel. But she was soon proving to be quite the handful. Jasmine embarked on a romance with best friend Debbie Dingle, only to be seduced by her much older dad, Cain, who got her pregnant.
But it was Jasmine’s determination to become an investigative reporter that really landed her in trouble. She got embroiled with bent copper Shane Doyle, and after her tried to rape her, she whacked him with a chair leg and killed him.
With the help of Debbie and Eli Dingle, she dumped the body in the lake. But of course Shane was found and Jasmine eventually went to prison for her crime.
Things were never boring when Kelly was around! (Credit: ITV)
Kelly Windsor: Emmerdale’s bad girls
Kelly Windsor was a troubled teenager who grew into a manipulative and wily woman. She had a string of unsuitable romances with men including her teacher, Tom Bainbridge, Chris Tate, Biff Fowler and her stepbrother Scott. She married sweet Roy Glover but wasn’t happy.
When Kelly returned to the village after some time away, she got pregnant by Jimmy King but said she’d had an abortion. Years later, Kelly gave Jimmy the news that she’d had his son, Elliot.
She even took advantage of Jimmy’s amnesia to pretend they were a couple. But Jimmy wised up and Kelly left the village – leaving Elliot behind.
Emma Barton caused the Hotten by-pass crash by shoving husband James into the traffic, while wearing her wedding dress (Credit: ITV)
Emma Barton: one of Emmerdale’s bad girls
Another iconic Emmerdale villain, Emma was brilliantly, terrifyingly, determined to bring her family back together. So determined, in fact, that she took advantage of estranged husband James being injured and kept him hostage at home.
It was Emma who caused the Hotton by-pass crash when she shoved that same husband off the road bridge and killed him. She also (accidentally) shot and killed her son Finn and was eventually finished off by Moira Dingle!
Sally’s campaign against Laurel ended in a dramatic balcony struggle! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sally Spode
Sally was a vicar’s wife who tried to get her claws into Ashley by, well, locking Laurel in the church and setting fire to it. She didn’t succeed in killing her love rival there or later in hospital when she considered smothering her with a pillow. Phew.
But she did jump out in front of Ashley’s car, kidnap Edna’s dog AND Angelica King, drugged Ashley to try to get him into bed, and lie that she was pregnant with his baby. Oh and end up in a dramatic balcony struggle with Laurel. That’s more than enough!
Maya Stepney groomed teenager Jacob Gallagher (Credit: ITV)
Maya Stepney
Another of the properly twisted Emmerdale bad girls, Maya Stepney groomed and seduced her teenage student and almost ‘stepson’ Jacob Gallagher.
Maya convinced Jacob that their relationship was true love, and that they could be tighter, but in reality she had manipulated Jacob and messed with his head. Eventually Maya admitted to what she’d done, she lost her job and went to jail.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
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