This month marks 28 years since Emmerdale cast member Dominic Brunt joined the show as adored Paddy Kirk. And nearly 30 years later, fans still love his character.
While he celebrates his Emmerdale anniversary, the star has taken a few breaks over the years to do different projects. But he always has ended up right back in the village.
So what is his life like away from the soap? From his Emmerdale breaks to his famous wife, let’s have a look.
Dominic joined Emmerdale in 1997 (Credit: ITV)
Dominic’s career away from Emmerdale
In recent years, Dominic’s love for TV also progressed to behind the scenes projects.
As a big fan of horror, Dominic, along with on and off screen pal Mark Charnock, arranges an annual film festival in Leeds.
That’s not the only side career he has, buy he and his wife also embark on numerous projects together. This includes founding Mitchell Brunt Films, where his wife works as a producer and writer on several of the company’s films.
Despite these other opportunities, Dominic’s heart seems to lie with Emmerdale.
He spoke to Loose Women: “It takes two to four years to get the funding together. And sometimes films collapse, sometimes they go forward. But it can be a tricky situation.
“I don’t ever want to do one by halves. So I only do them every few years. I am happy with Emmerdale, and I really love it. I’m a big fan of the show, and I am very lucky. I have probably dodged a couple of bullets and I never take it for granted.”
Who is Dominic married to?
Dominic is married to fellow actress Joanne Mitchell, who has even starred on Emmerdale.
The couple both attended the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, and have been married since 2003.
And if Joanne’s name sounds familiar with Emmerdale fans, that’s because she played Sandra Flaherty, Liv’s mum.
While they keep their relationship private, the couple have two sons: Mickey Joe and Danny Lee. However, while their exact ages are unknown, it’s believed they are teenagers.
Despite their private lives, Dominic shared on This Morning how they faced a health scare when Danny underwent heart surgery at eight months old.
He said: “It’s the most horrific thing to have to go through as a parent. But he’s football mad now – he is completely fine. He has to have a check up once a year for the rest of his life. At the time it was horrific, you’re in the eye of the storm. It was horrible. You think you are going to lose your son.”
Paddy is a fan-favourite on the show (Credit: ITV)
Dominic’s Emmerdale breaks
While Emmerdale cast star Dominic Brunt confirmed his loyalties lie with the ITV soap, he has had a few breaks over the years.
Paddy has left our screens for a few short periods of time, most notably when he temporarily moved to Germany.
But it seems these breaks were so that Dominic could put more focus onto his horror movies that he makes alongside his wife.
And as he himself admitted he only does one every few years, it seems Paddy is safe in the village for a little while longer.
There is disaster in Emmerdale next week as a night out ends in horror and according to Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy, there could be deaths in store!
As the women and men of the village head off for two special nights on the town, tragedy strikes.
And now Dominic has hinted that it could also mean someone is about to die!
Chas and Liam haven’t been together long but he wants to make it official! (Credit: ITV)
Liam plans a romantic surprise for Chas
Things kick off when romantic Liam tries to win a limo for the night in a raffle. He’s got plans to propose to Chas and he wants to do it in style!
But despite Liam’s best efforts, he doesn’t win! So desperate to pop the question, he begs Suzy to find him another limo.
With two limos in the village, the party-goers divide into men and women and head off!
Caleb wants Cain to confess! (Credit: ITV)
Caleb wants answers from Cain
But tensions are simmering under the surface. Liam’s antsy when he realises Chas will be with the other women instead of him. And worst of all – there’s no drivers for the limos!
Caleb offers to drive one car, while Charity takes the other. But Caleb is still livid about Cain and Ruby and he’s determined to make his brother confess.
The women’s car descends into chaos, distracting driver Charity (Credit: ITV)
Living it up – for now!
The women, meanwhile, are living it up in their fancy motor.
And as a huge row breaks out in the men’s limo, the women descend into chaos.
Both drivers are distracted and the cars both swerve off the road in separate accidents!
As one limo crashes into an icy lake it leaves one group of revellers facing devastation.
But is it the men or the women who are in danger?
One limo plunges into a frozen lake – but which group is in danger? (Credit: ITV)
Dominic Brunt teases deaths ahead in Emmerdale
Paddy, played by Dominic Brunt, is among the men who join Liam in his limo.
And Dominic has given us a sneaky hint about what to expect from the dramatic stunt.
He admits he’s not sure where the two groups are heading as they take off from the village.
“I don’t actually know the destination because we never get there,” he says. “Well, there is a destination. A very final destination…”
Hold on a minute! Does that mean someone’s going to die? Suddenly we’re remembering those flashforwards from new year, which showed us Cain standing beside a freshly dug grave, and Caleb flatlining in hospital.
Plus, of course, there was that desperate hand as someone was trapped beneath the ice.
Viewers have speculated that the hand could be Leyla’s as she is rumoured to be leaving Emmerdale and there is speculation she could be killed off.
So does this mean it’s the women’s limo that plunges into the lake?
Perhaps!
The flashforwards also showed us a frightened Mack running through the woods – is he desperately trying to get to Charity after the accident?
Who is Cain mourning? (Credit: ITV)
Tragedy in Emmerdale says Dominic Brunt
Of course, the only way we’ll know for sure is to watch. And Dominic says we won’t be disappointed with this dramatic stunt.
“I think these are definitely some of Emmerdale’s most dramatic episodes that we have created for a long time,” he reveals. “And it is very tense!”
We can’t wait to see them!
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
Christmas in Soapland is the gift that keeps on giving, and Emmerdale has treated us to some spectacular seasonal episodes.
Along with the usual turkey, trimmings and tantrums, December 25th in the village often brings the most dramatic births, marriages and deaths.
So here are our picks of the 11 best Emmerdale Christmas moments…
Lisa and Zak with their little Christmas miracle – baby Belle (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Vic dies and Belle is born 1998
Birth and death was the theme for the Emmerdale 1998 Christmas episode.
Postmaster Vic Windsor was killed off in a bungled armed robbery by Andy Sugden’s dad, Billy Hopwood. A fight ensued after Vic caught Billy trying to break into his Post Office safe. Billy – who was armed with a shotgun – threatened Vic, then pushed him into a set of shelves. Critically injured by the impact, Vic pleaded with Billy to ring an ambulance, but the cowardly criminal scarpered. Poor Vic was left to die alone, as 11.1 million tuned in to mourn the passing of one of their favourite characters.
While Vic was breathing his last, over at Wishing Well Cottage the Dingles were receiving a surprise delivery. Belle entered the world after Lisa gave birth in the family’s pigsty. But the biggest shock was she didn’t even she was she pregnant. No wonder why Zak fainted at the sight of his wife cradling their newborn daughter!
We love a good old Christmas wedding (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice and Ashley tie the knot 2000
Ashley and Bernice’s sweet love story led them all the way to the altar on Christmas Day 2000.
Fans had waited a long time to see the vicar and barmaid say I do, and the service was watched by an audience of almost 10 million. Bernice looked beautiful in a traditional ivory gown and veil, while Ashley was dapper in his dog collar. In a break with usual tradition, the wedding went without a hitch.
But sadly the fairytale wasn’t to last. Less than a year later, Ashley and Bernice’s marriage was over after she confessed to an affair with sexy chef Carlos Diaz.
Louise killed menacing Ray in self defence (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Louise Appleton kills her stalker boyfriend 2002
Danger loomed in the 2002 festive episode when Woolpack landlady Louise Appleton discovered the identity of her secret stalker.
Louise was being hounded by creepy messages from a mystery tormenter, but had no idea it was actually her boyfriend, Ray Mullen. Having convinced Louise she was in danger, Ray then persuaded her to move away with him to Italy.
As Christmas Day arrived, the couple left Emmerdale and were on their way to the airport. But the journey took a sinister turn when Louise realised Ray was the one who’d been making her life hell.
She fought back and Ray lost control of the wheel, forcing the car off the road. With Ray knocked unconscious, Louise managed to flee the scene and make it back to the village, but he wasn’t far behind.
The drama continued on Boxing Day when Ray arrived at Mill Cottage for a final showdown with Louise. A violent fight ensued, which resulted in Louise killing her evil boyfriend.
Louise was now a murderer, but got away with it after her friend Terry Woods helped make it look as if Ray had died by accident.
Tom King breathed his last on Christmas Day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Who killed Tom King 2006
Tom King’s murder stands out as one of Emmerdale’s finest Christmas episodes.
The nasty King patriarch was killed at Home Farm on the day of his wedding to Rosemary Sinclair. Tom was getting ready for the reception in an upstairs bedroom when he was confronted by a shadowy figure. An argument broke out and Tom was bludgeoned with a bronze ornament before being shoved through a window. He fell to his death in front of the shocked locals, who were gathered to celebrate his big day.
The shock murder sparked a huge whodunnit, but the suspect list was rather long due to the amount of enemies Tom had. Those in the frame included Tom’s three sons, Jimmy, Matthew and Carl, and even his new bride Rosemary.
Fans had to wait a whole five months before it was revealed that Carl was the killer. He’d finished his father off after Tom threatened to disinherit him unless he dumped girlfriend, Chas Dingle.
Victoria nearly met a watery end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Victoria falls through the icy lake 2008
Christmas 2008 was nearly Victoria’s last after she fell through a freezing lake.
Vic had been out drinking in the grounds of Home Farm with her mates when she stepped onto a frozen lake. Suddenly the ice beneath her gave way and the teen was plunged into the sub zero waters.
She was saved by Daz Eden’s quick-thinking actions, as he risked his own life to rescue Victoria. When she regained consciousness, Victoria revealed she’d seen a body floating in the murky lake.
The corpse turned out to be rapist police officer Shane Doyle, who had been murdered weeks previously by Jasmine Thomas.
Chas took her revenge on love rat Carl (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas jilts Carl at the altar 2010
Emmerdale love a festive wedding drama – and Chas Dingle and Carl King‘s disastrous 2010 nuptials definitely delivered.
The pair’s toxic relationship imploded after Chas learnt Carl had been bedding barmaid Eve Jenson. Charity urged her cousin to take the cheating toe rag for every penny – which is exactly what she did! Chas popped the question to Carl and pretended she was pregnant with his kid. A wedding was swiftly arranged and Chas asked Eve to be her bridesmaid, putting her in a revolting peach puffball dress to ensure maximum humiliation.
With the stage set, Chas then dumped Carl in front of the entire congregation, outing his betrayal with Eve and revealing there was no baby. Now that’s how you do revenge.
Katie and Andy’s Christmas Day wedding did not go without a hitch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: Robert sabotages Andy and Katie’s wedding 2014
Andy Sugden and Katie Addyman hoped it would be second time lucky when they set the date for December 25, 2014. Vengeful Robert had other ideas.
Unable to back down in the bitter war with his brother and the woman he’d once loved, Robert had already given Andy a black eye before his big day. But he wasn’t going to stop there.
As Andy and Katie exchanged vows at the altar they were horrified to realise Robert had sabotaged their rings. Inside her gold band was inscribed the words ‘village bike’, while Andy had ‘village idiot’ inside of his.
But Robert wasn’t the only one who tried to disrupt the nuptials. Andy’s broken-hearted ex Bernice Blackstock also screamed abuse at the congregation of St Mary’s and had to be restrained by Diane.
Despite all the interruptions, Katie and Andy did actually get end up getting wed – but what a day!
Robert Sugden’s sins came back to haunt him at Christmas (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Robert’s dream sequence 2017
Robert Sugden took centre stage in 2017, in a festive offering that marked a change of direction for Emmerdale.
In a break away from the traditional style storytelling, the episode acted as a standalone one. It was described by Emmerdale’s then boss Iain MacLeod as “Groundhog Day meets A Christmas Carol with a little nod to the film Don’t Look Now.”
The episode saw Robert wake up multiple times on Christmas morning, facing a different reality each time. In each sequence, Robert was visited by the ghosts of Christmas future, as he saw the impact of his selfish and reckless behaviour.
Returning to present day, Robert made a desperate attempt to right his wrongs, hoping to rekindle his romance with on/off lover Aaron Dingle.
The installment really broke barriers for soap, and was enjoyed by 5.1 viewers. Unfortunately they didn’t get the Christmas gift of a Robron reunion, but that followed shortly afterwards.
Chas and Paddy’s romantic wedding brought a tear to our eyes (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Paddy and Chas say I do 2020
Who can forget Christmas 2020, aka the one where we were all in lockdown? But amidst the Covid pandemic gloom came a ray of light in the form of Paddy Kirk and Chas Dingle’s festive nuptials.
Paddy had decided to surprise Chas with a romantic wedding and had been busy making plans to ensure the day was perfect. But it nearly didn’t go ahead after Chas suggested Christmas weddings were cursed, and Paddy quickly cancelled.
When Chas realised what Paddy had been planning she had a sudden change of heart. She summoned Paddy to the church, where she asked him to marry her! The couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony with only Marlon, Aaron and Bear in attendance. And Chas looked stunning in a gorgeous red dress that Paddy had purchased specially.
Afterwards, the happy couple returned to The Woolpack, which had been transformed into a winter wonderland, and enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.
The Woolpack went up in flames on Christmas Day 2021 (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best Christmas episodes: The Woolpack explosion 2021
Christmas 2021 went with a bang as the poor Woolpack was destroyed in an explosion.
The pub had taken a huge financial hit during the Covid pandemic and was failing to make a profit. So in swooped shady businessman Al Chapman who offered to buy the lease off landlady Chas Dingle.
But Al had a secret agenda – he and evil boss Gavin were planning to close down the Woolie and turn the building into swanky flats. Under pressure to deliver, Al torched the soap’s iconic boozer. The flames quickly took hold leading to an almighty explosion!
Meanwhile, serial killer Meena Jutla almost committed another murder after fearing her Manpreet was onto her.
Charity gunned down Damon Harris to save Mack (Credit: ITV)
Charity kills Damon Harris 2023
Last Christmas was one Charity Dingle will never forget – but for all the wrong reasons! Charity shot and killed Damon ‘Harry’ Harris to stop him murdering her husband, Mackenzie Boyd.
In the lead up to Christmas, Harry had kidnapped and tortured Mack as payback for him dumping his daughter. Bit extreme, no? Harry fully intended to finish Mack off (with Chloe watching), but Charity got wind of what was going on.
She tailed Harry back to the dingy warehouse where he was holding Mack. Watching from the shadows, Charity witnessed Harry drawing a gun from his pocket to use on Mack.
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
Nothing says Christmas in soap like action-packed weddings, and Emmerdale has gifted us some highly memorable ones.
During the soap’s 52 year history no fewer than seven couples have got spliced over the festive period. It would have been nine if it wasn’t for Chas Dingle dumping cheating Carl King at the altar, and another groom dying on his wedding day.
Let’s take a look back at these festive weddings and relive all the shocks and surprises…
Kim and Frank’s second wedding was a grand affair (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Frank and Kim Tate
Frank and Kim hoped it would be second time lucky when they said I do on December 22, 1994. The couple’s first marriage had ended in divorce following Kim’s affair with handsome stockbroker, Neil Kincaid. But they were reunited after Frank saved Kim’s life during the plane crash of 1993.
In a break from the usual setting of St Mary’s, Kim and Frank opted to get hitched outside of Emmerdale in the rather grand Ripon Cathedral. Keen horse-woman Kim looked breathtaking in a corseted high-necked lace gown complete with a white dressage hat and veil.
The ceremony was followed by dinner and dancing, as the locals gathered to wish the newlyweds well. But the day ended on a sour note when Frank went to present Kim with her wedding gift – an expensive car – and found the motor had been nicked!
Biff and Linda’s big day ended in tragedy (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Linda Glover and Biff Fowler
Linda and Biff’s 1996 wedding day was full of drama, from beginning to end. First up the groom-to-be woke up nursing a huge hangover, which was not made any better by Seth Armstrong‘s herbal-cure-all-remedy.
Then Biff’s mum Sandra rocked up and tried to talk her son out of going ahead with the wedding, but thankfully she didn’t succeed. Biff and Linda exchanged vows in front of their nearest and dearest, while Jack Sugden acted as their wedding photographer.
Earlier in the day Biff had learnt that his best mate, and Linda’s brother, Dave was planning to run away with Kim Tate. He caught up with Dave at the reception and begged him to reconsider. But tragedy struck that night as Dave was killed rescuing Kim’s baby son James from a fire at Home Farm.
So what should have been the happiest day of Linda and Biff’s lives turned out to be one of the worst.
Ashley and Bernice’s happy ever after did not last long (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice Blackstock and Ashley Thomas
Ashley and Bernice were total opposites, but their adorable love story captured a nation. Nearly 10 million viewers tuned in to see the ditsy barmaid marry her vicar on Christmas Day 2000.
Unlike the majority of Emmerdale weddings, this one actually went without a hitch. Even Bernice’s estranged father, Rodney, managed to watch the ceremony without causing scene.
Bernice looked radiant in an ivory gown and veil, and carried a bouquet of red roses. And proud groom Ashley donned his traditional dog collar.
Unfortunately the couple’s happy ever after wasn’t to be. Less than a year after promising to remain faithful, Bernice was unable to resist the lure of sexy chef Carlos Diaz. She fell pregnant and gave birth to baby Gabby, who had to undergo a DNA test to determine who her daddy was. Classy stuff.
Tom’s sons objected to his choice of bride (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Tom King and Rosemary Sinclair
Tom and Rosemary were as vile as one another, in other words the perfect match. Nearly everyone was opposed to them as a couple, particularly Tom’s sons Jimmy, Matthew and Carl who believed Rosemary was a gold-digger.
However, Tom was serious about Rosemary, and proved this by asking her to marry him. Their wedding date was set for Christmas Day 2006, with a church wedding and lavish after party at Home Farm.
The actual ceremony went without a hitch and was rather romantic. But it was the shocking events that unfolded at the reception that have gone down in Emmerdale history.
Tom was getting ready in his bedroom when a shadowy figure entered. An argument broke out, and Tom was pushed to his death through the upstairs window. His horrifying murder sparked the soap’s biggest ever whodunit, and even Tom’s new bride Rosemary found herself in the frame.
The odds were stacked against David and Alicia on their wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Alicia Gallagher and David Metcalfe
Alicia and David took centre stage when they tied the knot during Emmerdale’s 2013 festive episode. The couple’s decision to get married on Christmas Day did not please everyone, particularly David’s ex Priya Sharma, who was expecting his baby at the time.
But Priya wasn’t the only problem Alicia and David had to contend with.
On the morning of the nuptials. David was struck down by a grim sickness bug and panicked he wouldn’t be able to make it through the ceremony without puking. Alicia found her boiler had broken so couldn’t get ready at home. She went over to The Woolpack where future stepmum Val Pollard offered to style her hair, then burnt it!
There was also a last-minute dress disaster, but Alicia and David did end the day as husband and wife.
Andy and Katie’s Christmas wedding was one to remember (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Katie Addyman and Andy Sugden
Christmas Day 2014 marked the second trip down the aisle for Andy Sugden and Katie Addyman. The couple’s first marriage was destroyed by Katie’s affair with brother-in-law Robert. And 10 years later he was out to cause trouble again.
Days before the wedding, Andy got into a punch up with Robert, which resulted in the groom getting a black eye. But Robert was about to add insult to injury. As Katie and Andy exchanged vows in the church they discovered Robert had sabotaged their wedding rings. Inside Katie’s ring was inscribed the words ‘village bike’, and Andy had ‘village idiot’ inside his.
But Robert wasn’t the only local who wanted to cause a scene. Andy’s jealous ex-girlfriend Bernice Blackstock crashed the service and started screaming abuse at everyone. She had to be carted off by mum Diane to calm down.
By some miracle the couple did eventually get married, but their love story ended in tragedy two months later when Katie was killed by Robert.
Paddy married his lady in red (Credit: ITV)
Chas Dingle and Paddy Kirk
Christmas 2020, aka the one where we were all in lockdown, was a difficult time for millions. But Paddy and Chas brought the joy with their heartfelt wedding.
Paddy decided the holiday season was the perfect time to make an honest woman out of Chas. He secretly arranged every detail of their surprise wedding. but when Chas suggested Christmas weddings were cursed, he panicked and called it off.
Chas felt awful when she realised what Paddy had been up to. Deciding that getting hitched at Christmas wasn’t so bad after all, Chas popped on the gorgeous red gown he’d bought her and summoned Paddy to St Mary’s, where she asked him to marry her!
In front of a congregation of three (Paddy’s best mate Marlon, his dad Bear and Chas’s son Aaron), the happy couple exchanged vows. Afterwards they went back to The Woolpack, which the locals had transformed into a winter wonderland.
Carl King wrecked his brother’s wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
And the ones that didn’t happen: Matthew King and Anna De Souza
It seemed ladies man Matthew King had finally been tamed when he popped the question to Anna De Souza. But Anna’s father, Donald – who was a rival of the King clan – refused to give his blessing.
Weeks before the wedding, Donald and Matthew got into a heated row. Donald suffered a heart attack and Matthew stood and watched him die instead of trying to help save him. The coroner ruled Donald had died from natural causes, but Matthew’s brother Carl knew what really happened.
Carl hated Matthew anyway so seized the chance to ruin his happiness. He gatecrashed Matthew and Anna’s big day and exposed the groom’s shameful secret to everyone. Unsurprisingly Anna didn’t fancy marrying Matthew after learning what he’d done to her dad. She dumped him at the altar and fled.
In revenge, Matthew tried to mow Carl down in a van, but ended up careering into a wall. He died at the scene of the crash, in Anna’s arms.
Cheating Carl King got what he deserved (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas Dingle and Carl King
Chas jilting love rat Carl King at the altar was the best Christmas gift fans could have asked for. The landlady had discovered her boyfriend was bedding barmaid Eve Jenson (the granddaughter of Edna Birch). But instead of just dumping him, Chas decided to bide her time to take revenge on Carl.
With cousin Charity in on her plan, Chas told Carl she was pregnant. The couple got engaged and set the date for Christmas Day 2010. Chas made all the arrangements for their festive nuptials, making sure no expense was spared. Carl was happy to meet her every wish, while Chas secretly pocketed his dosh in the process.
As the wedding day arrived, Chas waited until Carl was stood at the altar before exposing Carl’s betrayal to the entire congregation. Chas also announced she wasn’t actually pregnant and the whole thing had been a scam to extort money.
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
In today’s Classic Emmerdale spoilers for episodes airing on ITV3 on Monday, December 16, Rodney proves he can play just as dirty as Eric, Del and Paddy get closer, and could Viv be pregnant?
These episodes originally aired on June 8 and 9, 2006.
Throwing punches!
Rodney’s horrified when a story appears in the Hotten Courier containing salacious rumours about his son Paul, and making out that girlfriend Kelly is a porn star.
Kelly and Paul are hurt and feel Rodney’s let them down. When a photographer suggests they pose for a photo together they reluctantly agree. But Eric is lurking and can’t resist a cutting remark – earning himself a punch from Rodney! And of course the photographer has captured the whole thing!
Del and Paddy get closer but Toni’s about to interrupt their romantic evening… (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Paddy gets romantic in Classic Emmerdale
Elsewhere, Marlon prepares a special aphrodisiac meal for Del and Paddy and then makes himself scarce. But just as the lovebirds are about to take things upstairs, a jealous Toni comes home and hangs around.
Steph sticks to her story
Meanwhile, Alan goes to visit Steph and braves asking her outright if she killed Terence. But she sticks to her story and tells him Adam was the one who killed her brother.
Classic Emmerdale: Is Viv pregnant?
Viv thinks she’s pregnant and announces her good news at a family dinner. But her family aren’t convinced and insist she goes to see Dr Adam for a test. Viv’s confused when the test is negative and reels off her symptoms. Adam suggests it could be the menopause and Viv is horrified!
Rodney tells Kelly he was looking out for her (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rodney’s on top!
Rodney explains he hit Eric to protect Kelly’s honour but it’s probably cost him his seat on the council. When Kelly hears what Eric’s been saying, she whacks him too! The photographer is too slow to capture the moment – so Kelly does it again!
Rodney tells Eric that he’s realised family is more important and even if he is elected, he’s going to resign immediately. He adds that he’s bought Holdgate Farm, which will be opening as a spa and health club, managed by Kelly and Paul.
When the votes are counted, Eric smugly reveals he’s won and tells Rodney not to be too confident about converting Holdgate into a business.
But Rodney has the last laugh when he points out that Val won’t be impressed if he tells her Eric humiliated her son and wants his business plans ruined!
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
After her dog got ran over, Paddy worries about how to tell Del the severity of the situation. He gently lets her know that Titch’s recovery may not be possible.
But it turns out Del already suspected that he was only trying to make her feel better – and the pair kiss!
However, things don’t stay smooth sailing for long, as at Andy’s barbecue, Toni decides to stir the pot.
Pretending she’s looking out for her friend, she tells Del that she believes Paddy is actually on the rebound. And she even decides that is the best moment to tell Del about Paddy confessing his love to her.
Del, obviously angry by what she heard, decides to confront Paddy – but what will he say?
Classic Emmerdale spoilers: Andy and Katie clash
Jo spots Jamie and Katie in a deep conversation at Butlers Farm, and tells Andy she thinks Jamie is into her which doesn’t go down well.
At his barbecue the pair spend more time talking, so Andy gets drunk. When Katie later finds him, he confesses he hates seeing her flirt with Jamie.
As they argue, Andy brings up Katie’s history, which leaves her shocked at his anger. She tries to remind him that her past is in the past and she has apologised for everything.
Katie explains that she isn’t the one doing any flirting, but she can’t help it if someone else flirts with her. Andy gets a warning that if he can’t accept her history, they may not have a future.
Pearl decides to make silk flowers (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl gets to work
Pearl’s money problems have been getting worse and worse, causing her to make the desperate decision to take a loan from Eric. Now, she wants to pay him back.
Thinking of ideas that will help her earn money, she decides to start doing a home-working scheme making silk flowers – what could go wrong!
Later, it dawns on her just how big of a job it is and she realises she has to work through the whole night to complete the flowers.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with am early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm
Visit our Facebook page @Emmerdaleinsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @Emmerdaleinside
Over the years there have been some iconic Emmerdale couples. And when the writing is done right, we see incredible couples take over the Dales.
But quite often in soaps, storylines tend to go down a route that makes no sense. And our favourite couples often find themselves torn apart.
Just this week this was the case with the adored Emmerdale couple, Cain and Moira. As he waited for his wife to get through brain surgery, Cain found himself drunk and sleeping with Ruby, his brother’s wife.
Our guess is when Moira finds out (which is inevitable in soap world), it will tear the couple apart once again. And for another useless reason. Soaps need to also show happy long-term relationships.
So here is a round-up of some happy couples that found themselves ruined by storylines. While some may have made their way back together, fans will never forget the random break-ups which were very unnecessary.
Emmerdale couples: Kim and Will (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale couples 1: Will and Kim
When you think of Kim Tate, you immediately think icon. And when she arrived back in the village in 2019, after 20 years away, she was still the Kim everybody remembered.
But since her return, fans have been treated to a softer side of Kim, which included her finding love with Will Taylor.Â
The unexpected couple very quickly became adored, and fans were rooting for them to go the distance. After a bumpy day, the couple successfully tied the knot in 2022. But two years later, they’re no longer together.
One of the best things about this Emmerdale couple, was that they always seemed like a team. So when Will had a one-night stand with ex-wife, Rose, viewers were left baffled.
It continued to get ugly between Kim and Will from there as she secretly knew about it and blackmailed him. Then when he discovered it was her, she ended their marriage. The storyline didn’t sit well with fans who thought Kim and Will were much better together.
Zak and Lisa as a happy Emmerdale couple (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale couples 2: Zak and Lisa
One of the most iconic Emmerdale couples would be Zak and Lisa Dingle. When the couple first met in 1996 they were instantly taken with each other. Two years later, they tied the knot.
They were the heart and soul of the Dingle clan, and a truly loved couple through the entirety of the Emmerdale fanbase. For years they were two characters who always put each other and their family first, and wouldn’t dream of anything else. Until Zak’s bizarre affair.
In a storyline that still confuses everybody, Zak strayed from his true love Lisa, and embarked on an affair with Joanie Wright in November 2015.
In true soap fashion the affair was revealed on Christmas Day, temporarily marking the end of Zak and Lisa. The storyline event went as far as Zak and Joanie getting married. But three months into their marriage, Zak finally had the realisation he made a huge mistake.
While the couple reunited and stayed by each other’s side up until Lisa’s tragic death, fans never fully saw them the same way again. And that’s because it was an entirely avoidable plot that made no sense.
Chas and Paddy before their breakup (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale couples 3: Chas and Paddy
This Emmerdale couple kept finding their way back to each other. But their most recent break-up seems to be final, and completely avoidable.
Chas and Paddy rekindled their past relationship in 2017, and the couple went on a heartbreaking journey together. Their baby was diagnosed with bilateral renal agenesis, a condition that prevents the kidneys from developing properly. With no chance of survival they said goodbye moments after Grace was born.
But then they had Eve Dingle, and it gave them some happiness back into their lives. All seemed as well as it could be. So when Chas had an affair with Al Chapman, it ruined the couple.
It was an unnecessary plot-line, especially after all they had been through together. While they may be amicable friends now, breaking up their relationship was disappointing.
Tracy supports David throughout difficult times (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock)
4. David and Tracy
David and Tracy seemed like a happy family throughout their time together. They supported each other through the troubling situations they faced.
When David was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, Tracy was there to support him through every step. Then David proposed to her many times before she finally accepted.
But just when things seemed to be going well for the happily married couple, something changed. Not only did David cheat on her with Leyla, he also failed to support her when she was being harassed by an old client.
This all culminated in Tracy leaving him. But fans all wonder, was it really necessary to go down that route? They were happily married.
Robert and Aaron before cheating storyline (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock)
5. Robert and Aaron
This one still stings for a lot of Emmerdale fans, as the much-loved Robron were temporarily torn apart because Robert cheated on Aaron, while he was in prison. Which just so happened to have been a huge concern of Aaron’s that Robert kept assuring would never happen.
The couple had faced so much over their years together, and still are one of Emmerdale’s most loved couples. Aaron eventually forgave Robert, and the pair reunited.
But after the unnecessary one-night stand, it was impossible to understand why the storyline had to take that direction, instead of allowing them to just be happy.
Even years after their last break-up, if Robert returned to our screens, we’re sure fans would immediately want them back together.
Nate and Tracy made up and broke up more times than necessary (Credit: ITV)
6. Tracy and Nate
Tracy found herself at the centre of another cheating scandal – but this time she was the one cheating. Her and Nate were happily married, with their daughter Frankie.
But after less than a year of marriage, Tracy decided they aren’t actually compatible together, and left him. However, the last while of their relationship she had been having an affair with his uncle Caleb.
They reconnected after a while, but things were never the same, and when Nate wanted to leave the village, the pair ended their relationship for good.
Charity and Vanessa are still a fan-favourite relationship (Photo by ITV/Shutterstock (9878245n)
7. Charity and Vanessa
Another Emmerdale couple that will go down in history is Vanity. Charity and Vanessa were another unexpected pair. But they worked perfectly together.
When they got engaged, Emmerdale fans were beyond thrilled. But they never made it down the aisle.
While the writers wrote their break-up into the show to facilitate Michelle Hardwick’s maternity leave, fans couldn’t help but wonder if there was a different way to do it.
Charity cheating on Vanessa with Mackenzie – who she is in a relationship with now – just felt like a disservice to a pairing that was so adored by fans.
Having previously been suspended from work, it seems a massive U-turn has taken place as Tom is back in his old job – and fans can’t believe it.
Just why did Tom lose his job and how has he got it back?
Tom was suspended from work following his abuse of Belle (Credit: ITV)
Tom suspended from the vets
Back in September, following Belle’s allegations of abuse, Vanessa and Rhona chose to sack Tom from the vets surgery.
The allegations are true of course, but Tom continues to insist he is innocent. Though the number of people who believe in him is getting smaller by the day.
Tom at first threatened to take the vets to court for unfair dismissal. More recently, he has taken to threatening Paddy.
Demanding his job back, Tom said he would no longer be victimised (yes, he really had the cheek to say this). He threatened to expose the vets wrongdoings, such as cutting corners and letting the Dingles off with their bills.
He blackmailed Paddy (Credit: ITV)
What happened in Emmerdale?
In Monday’s episode of Emmerdale (November 18), Cain Dingle asked Mack to call Paddy at the vets and get him to come and look at Moira‘s prize bull.
It was Tom who turned up – proof that Tom’s blackmail had worked its magic on Paddy. Cain was incensed – who can blame him after what Tom put Belle through?
Cain promptly told Tom: “You’re not going anywhere near my cattle.” But a smug Tom pointed out that their insurance wouldn’t be valid if they turned down medical care.
Not wanting any harm to come to Moira’s bull, Cain reluctantly agreed to let Tom do his job. But fans and us alike were all baffled that Tom had a job at all.
Fans can’t believe Tom got his job back (Credit: ITV)
Fans baffled at Tom U-turn
Taking to X, viewers couldn’t believe that Tom had managed to get his job at the vets surgery back.
“Can’t believe Tom is back working at the vets,” one viewer said, while another fan wrote: “Tom’s got the Emmerdale bumpkins dancing to his tune.”
Another viewer wrote: “Has Paddy seriously given in and given Tom his job back? Wonder what Vanessa has to say about that?”
A fourth viewer asked: “Paddy took Tom back, I mean, what leverage has he got?”
On Cain’s reaction to seeing Tom, another fan quipped: “Tom as welcome as an outbreak of foot and mouth.”
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 tonight’s episode of Emmerdale, Tom sets his sights on a different target – picking on Paddy in an attempt to get his job back. While it’s nice to see Tom go after someone who isn’t a young child or his grieving, mentally unwell ex-wife for once, it’s another nasty move from the village’s resident manipulator.
This comes as Rhona, Vanessa and Paddy suspended him from work over Belle’s allegations of abuse. All completely true, of course, but Tom continues to insist upon his innocence to anyone who will listen.
And he’s not taking news of his suspension lying down either, first threatening to sue for unfair dismissal, and now attempting to blackmail Paddy into relenting. Demanding his job back, Tom threatens to air all the vets’ dirty laundry in public.
It’s the latest development in a storyline which shows little sign of slowing down. And, with Tom repeatedly managing to evade the law (and Dingle retribution) his comeuppance has been a long time coming.
When – and how – will all this end?
Tom demands his job back (Credit: ITV)
When is Tom leaving Emmerdale?
Soap bosses revealed earlier this month that the end of the storyline will air in December. Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “When we first embarked on this journey we knew we wanted to show domestic abuse, coercive control and manipulation in all its guises.
“We knew from the outset that Belle would need some sort of closure on Tom and we know our Emmerdale audience always look forward to our villains getting their comeuppance. We don’t want to spoil the outcome of this story and reveal what will happen to Tom, but needless to say, Belle’s going to be in a much better place by this Christmas.”
Tom will leave the soap in December (Credit: ITV)
How will Tom King leave?
The exact circumstances behind Tom’s exit remain unknown, although fans have long speculated that he might exit the village in a coffin. While there are several ways he could get his comeuppance, many are hoping that he faces real justice – inside a prison cell.
What is known is that the story will involve Loose Woman and ex-Corrie star Denise Welch, who is joining the soap to bring Tom’s story to a close. Denise will play a woman on the jury when Belle takes Tom on in court.
TV stars Charles Dale and Jack Ellis will also join the all-star cast for the episode – an hour-long special which highlights the real-life voices of domestic violence survivors.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.Â
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.Â
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 @emmerdaleinsideÂ
In Emmerdale spoilers tonight, vengeful Tom puts Paddy in a sticky situation when he threatens to air the vets’ dirty laundry in public. Tom is desperate to get his job back after being given his marching orders by Rhona and Vanessa.
But will he be successful in leveraging Paddy to get his way?
Tom losing his job came as Belle let the villagers know all about Tom’s campaign of abuse against her – both physical and mental. Recalling their awkward dinner party in which Belle seemed to be upset and not acting herself, Rhona believed her version of events in full.
Tom sets his sights on Paddy (Credit: ITV)
What’s happened on Emmerdale so far: Tom loses his job amid abuse allegations
Rhona and Vanessa then told Tom that they would be firing him from his position at the surgery once the police investigation is through. Never one to take things lying down, Tom has threatened to sue for unfair dismissal. However, nothing – not even a dodgy lawyer faking assault and smashing up his car – has managed to change her mind.
And, with Paddy also believing Belle and the Dingles’ version of events, Tom decides to take a different tack in trying to get his job back. Approaching Paddy, he threatens to spill all the surgery’s dirty secrets if Paddy doesn’t comply.
Tom tells Paddy he wants his job back (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale spoilers tonight
Tom threatens Paddy
Determined to get his job back, Tom sets his sights on Paddy. Paddy is compromised when Tom threatens to air all of the vets’ dirty laundry unless they give in to his demands.
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
