Emmerdale have treated us to some cracking whodunnits over the years, drawing fans into the mystery and giving them the chance to play detective.
The latest crime we’re all trying to solve is who killed Anthony Fox? Ruby’s rapist dad was murdered just hours after his crimes became public knowledge. Right now it looks like Aaron Dingle beat him to death, but there are clues that’s not the whole story.
Anthony isn’t the only villain to have found themselves at the centre of a gripping whodunnit. Here we look back at those puzzling cases that kept us guessing until the big reveal…
Tom King was murdered on his wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best whodunnits: Who murdered Tom King?
Perhaps Emmerdale’s most famous whodunnit, Tom’s murder was the centre of the 2006 Christmas special.
The nasty King patriarch had just married the equally loathsome Rosemary Sinclair, but what should have been a day of celebration ended in disaster. While getting ready for the reception in his bedroom at Home Farm, Tom was approached by a mystery figure. An argument ensued, Tom was clobbered over the head with an ornament and pushed out of the window to his death.
There were 10 official suspects in the frame for the crime, including all three of Tom’s sons and his new bride. And in a soap first, Emmerdale gave fans the chance to play detective by launching an online game so they could gather clues.
After five months of keeping everyone guessing, Tom’s son Carl was unmasked as the killer. But instead of being carted off down the cop shop, Carl remained in the village. He’d got away with murder, but the soap gods always find a way to punish. In the end, Carl got his comeuppance when he was bumped off by serial killer Cameron Murray in 2012.
Cain was attacked by one of these six suspects (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Who attacked Cain Dingle?
In 2011, Emmerdale announced Cain Dingle would be attacked in a whodunnit, dubbed ‘Judgement Day’. The storyline made perfect sense as Cain was the most hated man in the Dales.
His affair with Moira had destroyed the Barton family, he’d got 17-year-old Amy Wyatt pregnant, made an enemy of Jai Sharma and managed to alienate his own family.
After a showdown one night in The Woolpack Cain was bludgeoned with a crowbar. He tried to escape, but was struck again over the head and left for dead. Moments later, Cameron Murray came across the scene of the crime and saw Jai standing over the body, his hands covered in Cain’s blood.
Cain was rushed to hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for a clot on the brain. He came out of his coma and tried to frame Jai for the crime. Moira’s wronged husband John was also arrested, but then released due to a lack of evidence.
On January 5, 2012 – less than a month after the attack – Cain’s own dad Zak was revealed to be the perpetrator. Zak confessed he’d wanted to teach Cain a lesson for his continual bad behaviour and disgracing the Dingle name. Cain eventually forgave his father and agreed to drop the charges against Jai.
Robert’s ruthless behaviour caught up with him (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale best whodunnits: Who shot Robert Sugden?
Ruthless Robert was another one who didn’t give a damn who he hurt. So it was only a matter of time before he ended up with a bullet in him.
In September 2015, Robert became public enemy number one after it was revealed he’d pushed Katie Sugden to her death. One of his haters took their revenge by gunning Rob down in the village.
Emmerdale added a twist to the tale by deciding to reveal the shooter in a special flashback episode, which aired the month later.
The clock was rewound and viewers discovered Robert’s adoptive brother, Andy was the culprit. He’d wanted Robert dead for what he did to Katie, but had paid Ross Barton to pull the trigger for him.
Emma Barton’s death turned out to be murder (Credit: ITV)
Who killed Emma Barton?
Killer nurse Emma Barton got her comeuppance when she was shoved off Hotten Viaduct in October 2017. The discovery of her body sparked a huge whodunnit, with lots of twists and turns along the way.
In the lead up to her death, Emma was spiraling out of control. The year before she’d pushed husband James off a bridge during the Hotten Bypass. She’d also accidentally killed her youngest son Finn and kidnapped Moira Dingle’s baby Isaac. Haunted by hallucinations of James, Emma drove herself to the viaduct to end it all.
First thoughts were that Emma had committed suicide, but it then became clear it was murder. There were many who had reason to want Emma gone, but only one who hated her enough to kill. And that one person was Moira.
The truth was revealed in flashback scenes, which were cleverly intertwined with present day. Moira confessed to the police that she’d pushed Emma, but escaped punishment after her son Adam managed to convince them he was the killer. He then fled the country as a fugitive.
Kim was pushed off a balcony back in 2018 (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale best whodunnits: Who pushed Kim Tate?
Kim Tate’s dramatic return in 2018 was a night to remember after she got pushed off a balcony by an unknown culprit.
Guests had gathered at Home Farm for a charity masquerade ball when Kim made her entrance. Fresh from jail and looking a million dollars, Kim announced she was back on the throne. But within minutes, the superbitch was making enemies with just about everyone.
One partygoer did not take kindly to Kim’s insults and shoved her over the balcony. Kim came crashing down on a champagne tower and for a moment fans feared she was dead.
Charity Dingle was arrested for the attack as witnesses had seen her quarreling with Kim, but in fact it was Faith Dingle who ‘fessed up to the deed. Faith showed little remorse, admitting everyone at the ball wanted to give ‘that witch a shove’.
And as for Kim, she lived to tell the tale, but was carted back to prison for driving without a licence.
Graham met a very grisly end (Credit: ITV/YouTube)
Who was Graham Foster’s killer?
Emmerdale kicked 2020 off in style with the murder of fan-favourite Graham Foster. Joe Tate’s former right-hand man made a lot of enemies during his two years in the village.
Graham’s on-off affair with Kim Tate had turned toxic after he’d started dating Rhona Goskirk, and she’d already instructed Al Chapman to kill him. Charity Dingle was baying for Graham’s blood after he locked her son Ryan Stocks in a shed. And then there was Marlon Dingle, who was desperate to stop Graham leaving the country with Rhona and Leo.
On January 20, 2020, Graham arranged to meet Marlon in the woods to discuss matters. But he never got the chance when he was walloped over the head by a hooded figure, who revealed themselves to be Rhona’s ex-husband and rapist Pierce Harris.
It turned out the pair had history after Graham visited Pierce in prison and had him beaten up. This time Pierce came out on top. He attacked Graham with a log, causing him to fall off a cliff. Pierce then delivered the final, fatal, blow with a torch!
Caleb’s crimes caught up with him (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale best whodunnits: Who attacked Caleb Miligan?
No one was surprised when cold-hearted Caleb was pushed off a steep ravine by one of his foes.
In typical soap style, in the minutes leading up to the attack Caleb was busy making an enemy of just about everyone. But he’d already spent months lying and scheming as part of his mission to destroy Kim Tate.
When the truth came out, the villagers turned on Caleb during a tense showdown in the pub. Afterwards, Caleb took a walk into the countryside to think on his sins. But he wasn’t alone. Someone followed behind and shoved him over the edge of a woodland ridge.
Several characters were seen acting suspiciously at the time and most had their money on Mackenzie Boyd. However, it later transpired Caleb’s son Nicky was responsible for the violent attack. Viewers learnt the truth when the nanny paid his comatose father a visit in hospital and apologised for what he’d done.
Caleb came round and revealed he’d known all along it was Nicky. But he chose to forgive his boy, acknowledging it was his fault for forcing Nicky to take part in his dastardly schemes.
Evil Craig died under the hooves of Kim’s horse (Credit: ITV)
How did Craig Reed die?
The body of Lydia Dingle’s rapist was discovered on in the middle of a field back in October 2023, sparking what turned out to be Emmerdale’s most surprising whodunnit. It was a confusing case, but viewers only had to wait four days for the big reveal.
During a special week of episodes, the Dingles took centre stage at a lock-in at The Woolpack. One by one, the family were interrogated by Lydia, as she questioned their whereabouts the day Craig died.
Huge secrets were revealed, and for a while it looked as if Sam had murdered his wife’s abuser. But in a twist that, let’s face it, no one saw coming, Craig’s killer turned out to be Kim Tate’s horse, Ice.
Flashback scenes revealed Kim was out riding when she encountered Craig on her land. Bloodied and bruised after being beaten by Sam, Craig was raving like a loony. He jumped in front of Ice, who reacted by trampling Craig. By the time Cain arrived on the scene Craig was on his way out, so he and Kim opted not to dial 999. Instead the pair just calmly departed, leaving Craig to perish.
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The Emmerdale cast 2025 is full of iconic characters and legends who we’ll certainly remember forever. From the mighty Dingle clan to the Tates, Sugdens and Kings, plus newcomers like the Fox-Miligans, there’s undoubtedly plenty of families in town competing for the crown of the best.
We’ve already had some departures this year and it’s ever-changing in Soapland. So, if you’re after a complete list of everyone in the Emmerdale cast in 2025, then look no further.
The Emmerdale cast 2025 – the A’s!
Forgiveness is one part of Christianity Charles needs to work on (Credit: ITV)
Charles Anderson – Kevin Mathurin
Charles Anderson is the vicar at Emmerdale’s village church St Mary’s and also the father of Ethan and Naomi. He made his first appearance on December 25 2020 when he married Chas Dingle and Paddy Kirk. The character is played by actor Kevin Mathurin, a former student of the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School. His previous roles include Rillington Place, Doctors and Hooligan Escape.
Charles’ mother, Claudette Anderson in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Claudette Anderson – Flo Wilson
Claudette Anderson is Charles’s formidable mother and lives with him at Woodbine Cottage. She came to the village on May 25 2023. Claudette is portrayed by actress Flo Wilson, who has appeared in Emmerdale three times previously as different characters.
Formerly Wyatt, Amy married Matty earlier this year (Credit: ITV)
Matty Barton is the son of Moira Barton and new husband of Amy Wyatt. The soap’s first transgender character, Matty was assigned female at birth and during his early years in the village was known as Hannah Barton. Actor Ash Palmisciano has played Matty since 2018 and is, like his character, a transgender male. His other credits include Mum and Boy meets Girl.
It’s time for Ross to return (Credit: ITV)
Ross Barton – Michael Parr
After an absence of six years, Michael Parr has returned to the Emmerdale cast to reprise his role as Ross Barton. Ross was the ultimate bad boy and always up to no good. But he is trying to change his ways – being a dad to Moses and helping in the search for April Windsor. Though he’s still giving out a good hiding – mostly where it’s deserved (we’re looking at you Mackenzie) every now and then.
Rodney in Emmerdale looks keen and ready to go (Credit: ITV)
Mack Boyd has faced death more times than most! (Credit: ITV)
Mackenzie Boyd – Lawrence Robb
Mackenzie ‘Mack’ Boyd was introduced as the long-lost brother of Moira Dingle in October 2020. He’s a mechanic and farmer by trade and works with his brother-in-law Cain Dingle at Barton and Dingle Automotives and also on Moira’s farm. Mack married Charity Dingle in 2023 and then became a father to Reuben Harris on the same day after a one-night stand with his mum, Chloe. He’s played by Scottish actor Lawrence Robb.
Jai is Archie’s dad (Credit: ITV)
Archie Breckle – Kai Assi
Archie was conceived during a one-night stand between Rachel Breckle and Jai Sharma in 2012. He and his mum left the village after a vicious custody battle, but Rachel died in 2019 and Archie came back to live with his dad. Archie is played by Kai Assi, who took over the role from Aadam Wahab Shahzad and Liyana Shahza.
The doctor will see you now, Liam Cavanagh (Credit: ITV)
Liam Cavanagh – Jonny McPherson
Doctor Liam Cavanagh is the village GP and works at Brook Cottage Surgery. He made occasional appearances in the village between 2014 – 2017, before becoming a regular character in 2018. Liam was previously married to murderer Maya Stepney and Leyla Harding, and is currently in a relationship with Chas Dingle. The character is portrayed by Jonny McPherson, who used to date his co-star Natalie J Robb.
The Emmerdale cast 2025 – D is for Dingle!
Brooding Aaron in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Aaron Dingle – Danny Miller
Aaron Dingle has been one of the soap’s central characters since actor Danny Miller took over the role in 2008. The character is the son of Chas Dingle and estranged husband of Robert Sugden, who’s currently serving time in prison for murder. Other than Emmerdale, Danny is best known for his roles in dramas such as Lightfields and for being crowned King of the Castle in the 21st series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
Traumatised Belle has had a rotten 2024 (Credit: ITV)
Belle Dingle – Eden Taylor-Draper
Belle Dingle – as she will always be to us – is the youngest daughter of Zak Dingle and his late wife, Lisa Dingle, and the wife of Tom King. She has six half-siblings – Nathan, the late Ben and Butch, Sam, Cain and Tina Dingle. Belle was born in the pigsty of her family home on Christmas Day 1998 and grew up in the village. She was part of one of Emmerdale’s biggest storylines of the year in 2024 – her domestic abuse at the hands of Tom. Since 2005, Belle has been played by Eden Taylor-Draper.
The new head of the Dingles, Cain (Credit: ITV)
Cain Dingle – Jeff Hordley
Cain Dingle has been the bad boy of Emmerdale village since his arrival in 2000. He’s best known for his criminal activities, on/off relationship with cousin Charity Dingle and his marriage to Moira. Cain is a dad of four to Debbie Dingle, Nate Robinson, Kyle Winchester and Isaac Dingle. He’s played by Jeff Hordley, who DJs in his spare time and is married to fellow Emmerdale star Zoe Henry (Rhona Goskirk).
Emma Atkins plays Charity Dingle (Credit: ITV)
Charity Dingle – Emma Atkins
Charity Dingle is the current landlady of The Woolpack, wife of Mackenzie Boyd and mum to daughter Debbie and her three sons, Ryan, Noah and Moses. She’s been married three times previously and been imprisoned on more than two occasions. Emma Atkins has portrayed Charity since 2000 and has starred in over 2700 episodes to date.
The First Lady of the Woolpack, Chas (Credit: ITV)
Chas Dingle – Lucy Pargeter
Chas Dingle is the much-loved manager of The Woolpack and has been a resident of the Dales since 2002. She’s the daughter of the late Shadrach Dingle and Faith Dingle, ex-wife of Paddy, half-sister to Cain and cousin/best mate of Charity. Chas is mum to Aaron and daughter Eve, her first born daughter, Grace, sadly passed away in 2018. The feisty character is played by actress Lucy Pargeter, who’s a former pop star and contestant on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
Cute little Eve Dingle (Credit: ITV)
Eve Dingle – Bella James
Born in 2019, Eve is the daughter of Paddy and Chas Dingle. She was born in the Woolpack toilets after Chas got locked in. Everyone had thought Eve would be a boy after Bear Wolf read the gender test results wrong! Eve is played by Bella James.
Isaac Dingle is winning hearts in the Emmerdale cast of 2024 (Credit: ITV)
Isaac Dingle – Bobby Dunsmoir
Fast becoming a fan favourite, young Isaac Dingle is the son of Moira and Cain. He was born in a barn after Moira went into labour during a confrontation with Emma Barton. She hadn’t even known she was pregnant! Isaac is a lover of animals and was distraught when his pet lamb, Minty died. Bobby Dunsmoir plays Isaac.
Cleaner extraordinaire and survivor, Lydia (Credit: ITV)
Lydia Dingle – Karen Blick
Lydia Dingle is the wife of Sam Dingle and stepmum to Samson Dingle. She arrived in the village in 2016 and works as a local cleaner. She has forged an unlikely friendship with lady of the manor Kim Tate. The character is played by Leeds-born actress Karen Blick, who previously played an unnamed nurse in Emmerdale in 2006.
Our Mandy is priceless (Credit: ITV)
Mandy Dingle – Lisa Riley
Mandy Dingle made her arrival to the village back almost 30 years ago, and has lived there on and off since. She’s the new wife of Paddy Dingle after they married for a second time in 2024. Mandy has one son, Vinny, who she adopted after his father and her ex, Paul walked out on them when he was a youngster. Actress Lisa Riley has played Mandy since 1995. She’s a former presenter of You’ve Been Framed!, panellist on Loose Women and competed in the tenth series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Chef Marlon is worried a lot lately (Credit: ITV)
Marlon Dingle – Mark Charnock
Marlon Dingle is The Woolpack’s resident chef and one of Emmerdale’s longest-serving characters. He came to live in the village in 1996 and is best known for his iconic bromance with Paddy Kirk. Marlon is married to local vet Rhona Goskirk, with whom he shares son Leo Goskirk. He’s also dad to daughter April Windsor. Marlon is played by actor Mark Charnock, whose previous roles include Cadfael and Coronation Street. In 2023 he was awarded the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement.
Emmerdale’s Moira has a lot on her plate (Credit: ITV)
Moira Dingle – Natalie J Robb
Moira Dingle is the wife of Cain Dingle, and mum to Matty Barton and Isaac Dingle. A farmer by trade, she was introduced to the show in 2009 as part of a new family. Moira has been at the thick of many a scandal over the years, including several extra marital affairs. Currently battling a brain tumour, she has no idea her husband cheated on her while she was undergoing surgery. She’s portrayed by Scottish actress Natalie J Robb, a former child star and pop singer.
Young Moses is not happy with his dad right now (Credit: ITV)
Moses Dingle – Arthur Cockcroft
Charity’s youngest son, Moses, first appeared in June 2015, but the baby’s father remained a mystery. Charity was in prison at the time and handed over her newborn to daughter Debbie to look after. Debbie believed Cain was the daddy, but in fact it was Ross Barton. Moses is played by Arthur Cockcroft.
Bad boy turned good, Noah Dingle (Credit: ITV)
Noah Dingle – Jack Downham
Noah Dingle is the eldest son of Charity Dingle and the late Chris Tate. He was born in 2004 when Charity was serving time in prison after being framed for the murder of his father. Noah’s teenage years have been filled with drama, and he’s had his own stint behind bars for stalking. The character has been played by actor Jack Downham since 2009.
Things haven’t always been easy for Paddy (Credit: ITV)
Paddy Dingle – Dominic Brunt
Paddy Dingle is Emmerdale’s kind-hearted vet and a partner at Emmerdale Veterinary Surgery. He’s the son of Bear Wolf, estranged husband of Chas Dingle, dad to their daughter Eve Dingle and father figure to Leo Goskirk and Aaron Dingle. Paddy is currently re-married to ex-wife Mandy Dingle. A friend to many, Paddy has treated the locals’ beloved pets and even helped deliver a few human babies along the way. Actor Dominic Brunt has played Paddy since 1997 and starred in over 3000 episodes.
Poor Sam has coped with a lot (Credit: ITV)
Sam Dingle – James Hooton
Sam Dingle is the longest-serving Dingle in Emmerdale, having lived in the village for nearly 30 years. He’s the husband of Lydia Dingle, father of Samson Dingle and grandfather to Esther Spencer. Sam’s defining storyline when he helped his cancer-stricken first wife, Alice, to die. The character is portrayed by James Hooton, whose roles pre-Emmerdale included Peak Practice, The Bill, Heartbeat and Touching Evil.
We’ve seen the last of Samson for a while (Credit: ITV)
Samson Dingle – Sam Hall
Samson Dingle is the son of Sam Dingle and the late Alice Dingle. Born in 2006, Samson has spent his whole life in the village. He became a dad at the tender age of 16 when Amelia Spencer gave birth to their daughter Esther, who was the result of a one-night stand. Samson is currently in prison, but is still mentioned regularly. Actor Sam Hall joined the cast in 2009 and was the fourth actor to play Samson.
Nervous Vinny is a Dingle by association (Credit: ITV)
Vinny Dingle – Bradley Johnson
Vinny Dingle is the son of the late Paul Ashdale. He was raised by Paul’s former partner Mandy Dingle, who he considers to be his mother. Vinny is also the widower of Liv Flaherty, who was tragically killed in October 2022. He works as a scrap dealer at Holey Scrap and is a whizz at poker. Vinny is played by Bradley Johnson, an English actor and singer who was a finalist on the BBC talent show Let it Shine.
Zak Dingle will forever be in our hearts in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Zak Dingle – Steve Halliwell
Although Zak Dingle no longer appears on screen, due to actor Steve Halliwell’s death last year, he is still very much a part of the Emmerdale cast of 2024. He is set to die off-screen this month, but will forever remain in our hearts as the patriarch of the Dingle family.
The cast of Emmerdale 2025 – F to H
Billy’s fighting for his family (Credit: ITV)
Billy Fletcher – Jay Kontzle
Billy Fletcher is a reformed bad boy and the husband of Dawn Fletcher. He’s the father of Evan Fletcher, adoptive dad to Dawn’s son Lucas and special guardian of Lucas’s half-sister, Clemmie. Billy was introduced to the soap on Christmas Day 2018 and is played by actor Jay Kontzle.
Dawn’s about to embark on an extra-marital affair (Credit: ITV)
Dawn Fletcher – Olivia Bromley
Dawn Fletcher is the daughter of Will Taylor and his ex-wife Rose Jackson. A former drug addict and prostitute, Dawn had a difficult upbringing but has successfully managed to turn her life around. She’s a devoted wife and mother of three. The character has been played by Olivia Bromley since 2018.
Little Evan is battling leukaemia (Credit: ITV)
Evan Fletcher – Malachi McKenzie
The son of Dawn and Billy Fletcher was born in December 2023 to complete their family. However, tragedy struck when Evan was diagnosed with leukaemia earlier in 2023. He is undergoing intense treatment that has shaken the Fletchers to the core, but the prognosis is good. Evan is played by Malachi McKenzie.
Vet’s receptionist Ella revealed a dark past in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Ella Forster – Paula Lane
Ella Forster is one of Emmerdale’s newest arrivals and has been harbouring big secrets about her past. She’s the receptionist at the vet surgery and is currently in a relationship with local doctor Liam Cavanagh. But the village was rocked earlier tin 2024 when it was revealed Ella had killed her best friend when she was a child. Ella is played by mum-of-two Paula Lane, who is known to millions for her role as Coronation Street’s Kylie Platt.
It’s been a quiet time for Jacob (Credit: ITV)
Jacob Gallagher – Joe-Warren Plant
Jacob Gallagher is the biological son of Leyla Harding and Justin Gallagher. He’s the adoptive son of Alicia Harding, stepson of David Metcalfe and brother to Amba and Theo Metcalfe. Actor Joe-Warren Plant joined the cast in 2010 when he was just eight-years-old. He was also a contestant on the 2021 series of Dancing On Ice, but had to withdraw from the competition after testing positive for Covid.
Leo Goskirk – Harvey Rogerson
Born on May 31 2011, 13-year-old Leo is the son of Rhona Goskirk and Marlon Dingle. She discovered she was pregnant after she and Marlon broke up, but they co-parented together. During a scan they learned Leo had Down syndrome. Leo is played by Harvey Rogerson, who took over the role from Harry Whittaker, who sadly died aged three in 2014.
Rhona’s mum has been a welcome addition to the Emmerdale cast (Credit: ITV)
Mary Goskirk – Louise Jameson
Mary Goskirk is the mum of Rhona Goskirk and grandmother to Leo Goskirk and Ivy Malcolms. She currently resides at Tall Trees with her family. Mary is played by Louise Jameson, a successful television and theatre actress. Her credits include Doctor Who, Bergerac, and she’s still known to many as playing Rosa di Marco in BBC soap EastEnders between 1998-2000.
Village vet Rhona (Credit: ITV)
Rhona Goskirk – Zoe Henry
Rhona Goskirk is one of the village vets and works at Emmerdale Veterinary Surgery. She is the daughter of Mary Goskirk, wife of Marlon and mum to Leo Goskirk and Ivy Malcolms. The character has overcome huge battles in her life, including drug addiction and is a survivor of domestic abuse. Actress Zoe Henry has played Rhona on and off since 2001, and is the wife of her Emmerdale co-star Jeff Hordley (aka Cain Dingle).
We’ll be waving goodbye to Leyla soon (Credit: ITV)
Leyla Harding – Roxy Shahidi
Leyla Harding is the estranged wife of Doctor Liam Cavanagh and the mother of Jacob Gallagher. She works as a wedding planner at Take A Vow alongside Suzy Merton and lives at Farrers Barn. Leyla is played by actress Roxy Shahidi. She joined the cast permanently in August 2008, having previously appeared in the soap as shop assistant Lila Wray two years previously.
Young Carl certainly has a big role right now in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
Carl Holliday – Charlie Munro Joyce
Juliette Holliday arrived in Emmerdale in 2014 heavily pregnant and explaining to Jimmy King there had been a mix-up at the fertility clinic and she was therefore carrying his baby! Carl was delivered by Nicola and Jimmy shortly afterwards. Juliette struggled to cope with parenthood and after some back and forth, gave Carl to the Kings to raise permanently. Charlie Munro Joyce is the actor who plays him.
Joker Bob can also do the tough scenes too (Credit: ITV)
2024 has been a difficult year for Cathy (Credit: ITV)
Cathy Hope – Gabrielle Dowling
Cathy Hope is the daughter of Bob Hope and his late wife, Viv. She is also the twin sister of the late Heath Hope, who was killed in a car accident on New Year’s Day 2024. Cathy has been played by Gabrielle Dowling since 2007.
Emmerdale cast 2025 – K is for King!
Rebecca Bakes will return as Angel (Credit: ITV)
Angelica King – Rebecca Bakes
The daughter of Jimmy and Nicola King, Angelica – or Angel – as she is commonly known, was born prematurely in 2009. After being kidnapped at birth by crazed Lexi Nicholls, Angel was soon returned safely. Now 15, she has recently returned from a youth offenders home after joy riding at New Year and killing Heath Hope.
Hapless Jimmy never quite gets it right (Credit: ITV)
Jimmy King – Nick Miles
Jimmy King is the is the longest-serving member of the King family and the only surviving son of the late Tom King. The husband of Nicola King and father of Elliot Windsor, Angelica King and Carl Holliday, the character, played by actor Nick Miles, was introduced in 2004. Jimmy was originally something of a cold-hearted businessman, but over the years has changed into devoted family man.
Businesswoman Nicola makes it her business to know everything! (Credit: ITV)
Nicola King – Nicola Wheeler
Nicola King is the wife of Jimmy King, daughter of Rodney Blackstock and mum to Angelica King. Much like her husband, Nicola has undergone a huge transformation during her time in the village. Once a party girl who was careless with other people’s feelings, Nicola has since blossomed into a successful businesswoman and valued member of the community. The character has been played by actress Nicola Wheeler since 2001.
He might be in prison, but there’s always a chance he could come back (Credit: ITV)
Tom King – James Chase
Thomas ‘Tom’ King is the son of the late Carl King and Colleen King, older brother of Anya King and the husband of Belle. Tom was named after his paternal grandfather and followed in his late Uncle Max’s footsteps by becoming a vet. However he is certainly following in his father’s abusive footsteps after making Belle’s life hell in 2024. The character has been played by four different actors since 2004, most recently portrayed by James Chase. Tom is serving time in prison for domestic violence and coercive control, but James has admitted a return in the near future is possible.
Out-there Gail is a breath of fresh air (Credit: ITV)
Gail Loman – Rachael Gill-Davis
Gail Loman is the outspoken girlfriend of Ryan Stocks, and the pair are parents to Oscar Grisham, who they gave up for adoption when he was a baby. She was made a permanent character in the soap in 2023 and works as a barmaid in The Woolpack. Gail is played by Rachael Gill-Davis, whose only other TV credit is Coronation Street.
Ivy Malcolms – Alice Mauve
Played by Alice Mauve, Ivy Malcolms is the baby at the centre of Rhona and Marlon’s custody battle with her ex, Gus. Ivy was conceived after Gus stole Rhona’s embryos to have a baby with his new wife. Sadly she died in childbirth and Rhona then wanted the baby who was biologically hers. After many court battles, Gus was sent to prison for eight years for fraud and therefore Rhona and Marlon are bringing up Ivy.
Suzy is with Vanessa, but should she be with Mary? (Credit: ITV)
Suzy Merton – Martelle Edinburgh
Event planner Suzy Merton works at Take A Vow and also the current love interest of Vanessa Woodfield. However there are many who believe she’s far better suited to Mary Goskirk. Suzy has been an Emmerdale local since 2022 and is played by Martelle Edinborough, who has had two previous stints in the soap as different characters.
Caleb Miligan is the son of the late Faith Dingle and was conceived during her affair with millionaire Frank Tate. He is the husband of Ruby Fox-Miligan and dad to their son, Nicky Miligan. He’s also the half-brother of Cain and Chas Dingle, both of whom he grew up estranged from. Caleb is played by William Ash, who has starred in popular dramas such as Solider Soldier and Where the Heart Is.
Caleb’s wife steals every scene she’s in – especially after her abuse trauma has been revealed (Credit: ITV)
The arrival of Steph caused lots of trouble for Ruby (Credit: ITV)
Steph Miligan – Georgia Jay
Steph joined the soap in 2024 as Ruby and Caleb’s estranged daughter. She had not seen her parents in years, resenting them for packing her off to boarding school when she was a teenager. The devastating truth is that Steph’s real father is not Caleb, but in fact her maternal grandfather, Anthony Fox, who raped Ruby when she was 16. Steph doesn’t yet know the truth. Actress Georgia Jay is a relative newcomer and fans were so impressed by her casting they are always wondering if she and on-screen mum Beth Cordingly are related.
The cast of Emmerdale 2025 – P to R
Pollard was bad, then good, then bad for a bit, now good again (Credit: ITV)
Eric Pollard – Chris Chittell
Eric Pollard has been bringing drama to the Dales for a whopping 38 years. Pollard as he known to millions, is renowned for his villainous, scheming ways. He is the widower of Val Pollard, father of David Metcalfe and grandfather of Amba and Theo Metcalfe. Actor Chris Chittell is the soap’s longest-serving actor and is married to his co-star Lesley Dunlop (who plays Brenda Walker).
Young Clemmie lives with Billy and Dawn (Credit: ITV)
Clemmie Reed – Mabel Addison
Dawn and Billy Fletcher adopted Clemmie after discovering she was the half-sister of Dawn’s son, Lucas. Clemmie’s mother was a drug addict who had died and Dawn found Clemmie sleeping in a dog bed in a kitchen in a random drug den. She consequently took her home and has cared for her ever since. Clemmie is played by Mabel Addison.
Little Frankie hasn’t seen her dad in quite a while (Credit: ITV)
Cheating Tracy has lost everything this year (Credit: ITV)
Tracy Robinson – Amy Walsh
Tracy Robinson is the estranged wife of Nate Robinson, half-sister of Vanessa Woodfield and mum to Frankie Robinson. A former prostitute and thief, Tracy was something of a troublemaker when she first came to the village, but has since mellowed. She was previously married to David Metcalfe. Actress Amy Walsh has just celebrated a decade in the Dales. She’s the sister of Girls Aloud star Kimberley and is married to former EastEnders’ actor Toby-Alexander Smith.
A messy divorce makes Jai the bad guy (Credit: ITV)
Jai Sharma – Christopher Bisson
Jai Sharma is a businessman and the son of Amit Sharma and Georgia Sharma. He’s the half-brother of Nikhil, Priya, Suni, and Nisha Sharma and the father of Mia Macey, Archie Breckle and Eliza Macey. In 2023 he married his long-term girlfriend, Laurel Thomas and the couple lived together at Mulberry Cottage until their break-up in 2024. Actor Chris Bisson, who previously played Vikram Desai in Coronation Street, joined the Emmerdale cast in 2009.
Dr Manpreet helps the villagers (Credit: ITV)
Manpreet Sharma – Rebecca Sarker
Manpreet Sharma works as a General Practitioner at Brook Cottage Surgery. She’s the ex-wife of Rishi Sharma and ex-partner of local vicar Charles Anderson. She’s also the sister of infamous serial killer Meena Julta. Manpreet is portrayed by Rebecca Sarker, who joined the show in 2018. Before Emmerdale she was best known for her year-long stint in Coronation Street, playing Nita Desai.
Charity’s long-lost son now co-owns the pub with her (Credit: ITV)
Ryan Stocks – James Moore
Charity’s long-lost son Ryan first appeared on June 5 2018. Ryan was conceived after Charity was raped by DI Bails. She had thought Ryan had died at birth, but in fact he survived and was adopted by the midwife, Irene Stocks. He now co-owns the Woolpack with Charity and is in a relationship with Gail Loman. Ryan has ataxic cerebral palsy and actor James Moore who plays him also has the condition. He is a huge advocate for disability representation in the media.
Emmerdale cast 2025 – S is for Sugden!
Harry Sugden – Adam Pryor
Harry Sugden – played by Adam Pryor – was conceived when his mum Victoria Sugden was raped by Lee Posner. She decided to keep the baby, despite her fears he would turn out like his father. However she immediately fell in love with Harry when she gave birth to him on January 1 2020.
Fragile Sarah has a life-limiting condition (Credit: ITV)
Sarah Sugden – Katie Hill
Sarah Sugden is the daughter of Debbie Dingle and Andy Sugden. She was born in 2005 and has largely grown up in the village. She lives with her grandmother Charity Dingle and her family in Jacobs Fold and is training to be a mechanic. Sarah has Fanconi Aneamia, which is a life-limiting condition. She is currently in the early stages of a relationship with Jacob Gallagher. Since 2017 the character has been played by actress Katie Hill.
Newcomer John is a secret Sugden (Credit: ITV)
John Sugden – Oliver Farnworth
The secret son of Jack Sugden, John joined the cast of Emmerdale earlier in 2024. He was moody, brooding and miserable, but Victoria wanted to get to know her half-brother. He was also hooking up with Aaron Dingle, the ex of his half-brother Robert Sugden! Talk about complicated! It was revealed John has been in the army and suffered the devastating loss of his friend, Aidan. John now works as a paramedic for the doctor’s surgery. Oliver Farnworth, who used to play Andy Carver in Coronation Street, took on the role of John.
A newfound brother has given Victoria newfound purpose (Credit: ITV)
Victoria Sugden – Isabel Hodgins
Victoria Sugden is the longest-serving member of the iconic Sugden family living in Emmerdale. She’s spent her whole life in the village since being born there in March 1994. Victoria is the daughter of the late Jack Sugden and his second wife, Sarah. She’s mum to three-year-old son Harry and works as a chef at The Hide. Isabel Hodgins has played the character since 2006 and is one of Emmerdale’s longest-serving cast members.
Emmerdale cast 2025 – T is for Tate!
Smouldering Joe is seducing Dawn (Credit: ITV)
Joe Tate – Ned Porteous
Gorgeous schemer Joe Tate made a dramatic return to Emmerdale on Christmas Eve 2024. He had been plotting with Kim’s husband Will Taylor to take down the Queen, but when Will died, Joe swooped in as Kim’s saviour. He claims to be all about family now, but he’s likely still working behind Kim’s back. He’s also getting jiggy with married Dawn Fletcher, so is he as changed a man as he seems? Ned Porteous reprised his role as Joe last year.
Ms Tate is an Emmerdale icon (Credit: ITV)
Kim Tate – Claire King
Kim Tate is the irrepressible owner of Home Farm, a soap queen and legendary Superbitch. She is the only original member of the original Tate family line-up. Kim is the mother of Jamie Tate and grandmother to his daughter Millie and his son, Thomas Tate. Actress Claire King has played Kim on and off since 1989. She’s also had memorable roles in prison drama Bad Girls and played Erica Holroyd in Coronation Street between 2014-2017
Thomas Tate – Bertie Brotherton
Three-year-old Thomas is the son of Gabby Thomas and Jamie Tate. He was conceived after a one-night stand, but Jamie made it clear he did not want to be a part of his son’s life and even faked his own death to prove it! Kim, however, wanted her grandson in her life and signed 20 percent of what she owned to Gabby, provided the baby was named Tate! Thomas is played by Bertie Brotherton.
Little Lucas is Dawn’s eldest son (Credit: ITV)
Lucas Taylor – Noah Ryan Aspinall
Dawn Taylor’s son, Lucas was taken away from her when she became addicted to drugs. When she got herself clean she then fought to get Lucas back and he now lives with her and husband Billy along with half-sister Clemmie and half-brother Evan. Noah Ryan Aspinall took over the role in 2021 from previous actor Dexter Ansell.
Teen Arthur is trying to find his place in the world (Credit: ITV)
Arthur Thomas – Alfie Clarke
Alfie Clarke has played Arthur Thomas since 2009 when he took over the role. The son of Laurel and Ashley was swapped at birth and the mistake was discovered after the other baby died of cot death. Arthur was reunited with his parents, but suffered devastation when Ashley died of early onset dementia in 2017. Arthur’s next big storyline came in 2022 when he came out as gay. He is currently having something of a teenage rebellion.
Rosie Bentham plays Gabby (Credit: ITV)
Gabby Thomas – Rosie Bentham
Gabby Thomas has packed a lot in her 22 years. She’s the daughter of the late Ashley Thomas and Bernice Blackstock, half-sister of Dee-Dee, Arthur and Dotty Thomas and the mother of Thomas Tate. Gabby is also Kim Tate’s protegee and the co-owner of the Hide. Emmerdale is actress Rose Bentham’s first television role and she’s played Gabby since 2016.
Dotty won’t remember her dad, Ashley (Credit: ITV)
Dotty Thomas – Tilly-Rue Foster
Laurel gave birth to her daughter with Ashley, Dotty, in midst of Ashley’s dementia diagnosis. He sadly didn’t remember Dotty was his at her christening. Dotty was named after Ashley’s mum, Sandy’s late wife, Dorothy. She is played by Tilly-Rue Foster.
Things aren’t looking rosey for Laurel right now (Credit: ITV)
Laurel Thomas – Charlotte Bellamy
Laurel Thomas has been a resident of Emmerdale since 2002. She’s divorced from Jai Sharma, and is mum to Arthur and Dotty Thomas, who she shared with her late husband Ashley Thomas. Laurel is a recovering alcoholic, but after a tough year seems to be fighting the lure of the bottle once again. Laurel is played by mum-of-three Charlotte Bellamy, who previously played a religious fanatic in EastEnders.
Emmerdale cast 2024 – last up, the Ws!
Losing Heath and dealing with Pollard’s behaviour has been too much for Brenda (Credit: ITV)
Cain’s son with Amy Wyatt is an accidental killer (Credit: ITV)
Kyle Winchester – Huey Quinn
Kyle is the son of Cain Dingle and Amy Barton. He was born in the local cemetery after Amy hid her pregnancy from everyone. She eventually gave Kyle up for adoption, but when his adoptive parents died she wanted him back. However he’d been left in the care of Joanie Wright. Kyle and Joanie moved to the village and Cain began to accept his son. In 2022, Cain went to prison after taking the blame when Kyle shot Al Chapman. Kyle, played by Huey Quinn, lives with Cain and Moira and Amy and Matty.
Rebellious April has been missing since Christmas (Credit: ITV)
April Windsor – Amelia Flanagan
April Windsor is the daughter of Marlon Dingle and the late Donna Windsor and the half-sister of Leo Goskirk. The character came to the Dales in 2014 and lives at Smithy Cottage. April attends the local secondary school and is friends with Cathy Hope. She went missing on Christmas Day 2024 and Marlon has been trawling the streets searching for her ever since. The character is played by Amelia Flanagan, who comes from a family of actors. Amelia’s sister Isabella and brother William both appear in Coronation Street as Hope Stape and Joseph Brown.
Elliot Windsor – Luca Hoyle
Elliot Windsor is the son of Jimmy King and Kelly Windsor. Jimmy only found out about him when Kelly moved back to the village and claimed he was their boy together. Kelly later decided to go to America with her new boyfriend and left Elliot with Jimmy and Nicola to bring up. She took him back again in 2012, but once again abandoned him with Jimmy in 2016. Luca Hoyle took over the role in 2016.
Paddy’s dad likes a beard trim! (Credit: ITV)
Bear Wolf – Joshua Richards
Bear Wolf is a former wrestler, but despite his ferocious name, is a complete softie at heart. He’s the father of Paddy Dingle and grandfather of Eve Dingle. He’s been a local in the village since February 2019 and lives in Tenant House. Bear is played by Joshua Richards, whose other credits include Downton Abbey and The New Adventures of Robin Hood.
It’s been a while since Emmerdale cast member Vanessa has had a story of her own (Credit: ITV)
When Vanessa fell pregnant with Johnny she didn’t know if Adam Barton or Kirin Kotecha was the father. A paternity test showed Adam was the dad, however it was soon revealed Kirin’s father Rakesh had faked the results and Kirin was the daddy after all. Vanessa’s partner at the time, Charity, then adopted Johnny in 2020. He is played by Jack Jennings.
Bad mum Kerry won’t be winning any awards for her parenting! (Credit: ITV)
Kerry Wyatt – Laura Norton
Wild Kerry Wyatt is the mum of Amy, but Amy was taken into foster care when she was young due to Kerry’s risky behaviour. Kerry has spent many years trying and messing up repairing their relationship, but things seem to be on a more even keel now. Kerry is played by Laura Norton.
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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*This article is updated regularly to reflect ongoing changes in the Emmerdale cast
The King family have had a presence in Emmerdale for two decades. In 2004, wealthy widower Tom King (Senior) arrived in the village. Along with him he brought three of his four grown up sons – Jimmy, Matthew and Carl. Youngest son Max followed later, as did Jimmy’s wife, Sadie.
The Kings became the new owners of Home Farm in 2005, and ran their successful haulage business King & Sons from the estate.
They may have had millions in the bank, but life at the big house brought the Kings nothing but misery and misfortune.
Here’s a look at all the tragedies the befell the family – who they all are and what happened to them…
The original Tom was ruthless – just like his younger counterpart is nowadays (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Head of the King family in Emmerdale: Tom King
Tom was the former head of the King family and feared businessman, played by Ken Farrington.
He was dad of Jimmy, Matthew, Carl and Max. Tom also fathered a daughter, Scarlett, after he had an affair with her mother, Carrie Nicholls while she was caring for his terminally ill wife, Mary.
Tom was a multi-millionaire and owner of King & Sons, the haulage firm which he ran with Jimmy, Matthew, Carl and Jimmy’s then-wife Sadie.
Born into a wealthy family, Tom had grown up in Emmerdale. He was acquainted with locals including Frank Tate and Alan Turner.
In 2005, Tom took the throne at Home Farm, but his ruthless and unpleasant nature meant he wasn’t popular with many of the locals.
Tom became engaged to Charity Dingle, but jilted her at the alter after being tricked by Sadie into believing she’d cheated on him.
After losing son Max in a car crash, Tom invested in land and built The Kings River Housing development. But disaster struck on the day of the grand opening when the house exploded and killed three people.
Tom met his own grisly end on Christmas Day 2006.
He had just married gold-digging Rosemary Sinclair when he was pushed to his death off a balcony by a mystery figure – who later turned out to be his own son Carl!
Hapless Jimmy has gone from scheming businessman to loved family guy (Credit: ITV)
Jimmy King and family in Emmerdale
James Frederick ‘Jimmy’ King is the longest-serving member of the family and played by actor Nick Miles.
He’s the eldest son of the late Tom King, and brother to the late Matthew, Carl and Max King. Jimmy is the husband of Nicola King and father of Elliot Windsor, Angelica King and Carl Holliday.
Introduced in 2004, Jimmy was initially portrayed as a cold-hearted businessman. But has since changed into a devoted family man and something of a comedy figure.
His most memorable storylines include the breakdown of his marriage to first wife Sadie King after discovering she’d bedded his brother Matthew, surviving being stabbed and suffering from amnesia after a blow to the head.
Sadie was sexy and slippery (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sadie King
Superbitch Sadie was the first wife of Jimmy King and played by Patsy Kensit.
Sadie may have married into the King clan, but she was the one who held all the power. And from the moment of her dramatic arrival via helicopter in 2004, it was clear she had a gameplan.
Jimmy was besotted with Sadie and desperate to start a family with her, but as it turned out she’d only married him for the money and was really in love with his younger brother, Matthew.
Sadie cheated on Jimmy with Robert Sugden and Cain Dingle, but it was her affair with Matthew that ended their marriage.
Post-Jimmy, Sadie tried every scheme in the book to get her hands on the King family’s fortune, but even Matthew saw through her in the end.
In a final act of revenge, Sadie hatched a dastardly plan with Cain to fake her own death. Sadie made her escape from the village and hasn’t been heard of since 2007 when she sent the Kings flowers and a note in the wake of Tom’s murder.
Jimmy has a thing for strong women (Credit: ITV)
Nicola King
Nicola is Jimmy’s feisty second wife and has been played by Nicola Wheeler since 2001.
She’s mum to their daughter Angelica and a mother figure to Jimmy’s two sons, Elliot and Carl.
Nicola and Jimmy had a fling 2009 which resulted in Nicola discovering she was 17 weeks pregnant.
Daughter Angelica ‘Angel’ was born in August of that year, and Nicola went on to become Mrs King.
The couple had a short-lived stint as landlord and landlady of The Woolpack, but Nicola found it too much of a juggle managing a busy bar and a baby.
Being a stay-at-home mum was never the life ambitious Nicola wanted. She became a councillor, although has since had to step down due to daughter Angelica’s lies over joy riding. She has shares in the cafe and is a part-owner of the Grange B&B. Meanwhile, Jimmy runs the haulage firm with Will Taylor.
Jimmy and Nicola have weathered many a storm and 2024 has been one of their toughest years yet following Angelica imprisonment for dangerous driving.
Currently in a secure children’s home, Angelica will be back later this year (Credit: ITV)
Angelica King
Angelica Mary ‘Angel’ King is the only daughter of Jimmy and Nicola King, and the half-sister of Elliot and Carl.
The character has been played by Rebecca Bakes since 2009.
Angel had a dramatic entrance into the world when she was born prematurely, then kidnapped by Carl’s wife Lexi King.
Lexi, who had tragically suffered the loss of her own baby, snatched Angel and took her up to the roof of the hospital, before Jimmy and Nicola rescued their daughter.
Angelica is currently serving time in a secure children’s home after she was responsible for a car crash that killed her friend Heath Hope.
Nicola and Jimmy tried to prevent her going to prison, but Angelica was handed an eight-month sentence.
Elliot Windsor
Elliot Windsor is the son of Jimmy King and Kelly Windsor and half-brother of Angelica King and Carl Holliday.
The character is played by Luca Hoyle.
Elliot was born in America and Jimmy didn’t even know of his existence until he was three years old.
In 2012, Elliot’s mum Kelly sent him to live with Jimmy and Nicola on a permanent basis. He sees Nicola as a mother figure and calls her mum.
Jimmy’s youngest son bears his uncle’s name (Credit: ITV)
Carl Holliday
Carl Holliday is Jimmy’s son with Juliette Holliday, who was conceived after a mix-up at the fertility clinic when Juliette was impregnated with the wrong man’s sperm.
After giving birth, Juliette felt she couldn’t cope with the responsibility of a child and left Carl in the care of Jimmy and Nicola.
Juliette returned to the village in 2021 in search of her son and the pair slowly started to get to know one another.
Sadly, Juliette decided motherhood ultimately wasn’t for her and went to live in New York with her boyfriend.
He wasn’t actually nice to anyone! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Matthew King – the cruellest of the King family in Emmerdale
Matthew Thomas ‘Matt’ King was the second son of Tom and Mary King, and played by Matt Healey.
He was the most cruel and manipulative of the four King brothers, and Tom’s favourite child.
The character’s heartless nature was shown early on when he helped cover up the death of postman Paul Marsden and conned his widow.
He was a ruthless womaniser too and didn’t think twice about stealing another man’s missus. And then tossing her aside when he got what he wanted.
Matthew had a torrid affair with Jimmy’s wife Sadie, which ended badly when he realised how evil she really could be.
After Tom’s murder, Matthew took control of the family business, but frequently fell out with Jimmy and Carl.
A happy ending looked to be on the cards when Matthew fell madly in love with Anna De Souza.
Unfortunately it wasn’t to be.
On the day of their intended wedding, Anna jilted Matthew after Carl revealed he’d played a part in the death of her father Donald.
In revenge, Matthew attempted to mow Carl down in a van, but ended up crashing into a wall. He died at the scene of the crash, in Anna’s arms.
We loved to hate him! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Carl King and his twisted family in Emmerdale
Carl Thomas King was the third son of Tom and Mary and played by Tom Lister.
The character was a notorious lothario and villain, who wreaked havoc in the Dales for eight years.
Carl was the first King to move to the village in 2004.
At that time he was married to first wife Colleen, with whom he shared children Anya and Tom.
Carl may have been a taken man, but that didn’t stop him pursuing other women.
When Colleen eventually threw him out, Carl embarked on a turbulent on/off romance with fellow single parent Chas Dingle.
Tom disapproved of his son being involved with Chas, and it was for that reason Carl pushed him to his death.
Carl was briefly wed to Lexi Nicholls, but admitted he only married her because she knew his killer secret.
Finding himself single again, Carl wormed his way back into Chas’s heart. He had an affair with Eve Shaw and Chas took her revenge by exposing the affair on their wedding day and jilting Carl at the altar.
But Carl’s obsession with winning Chas back proved to be his undoing.
During a dramatic final showdown in 2012, Carl attempted to rape Chas but she managed to escape after hitting him over the head with a brick.
Chas’s lover Cameron Murray then found Carl, a fight ensued, and Cameron bludgeoned Carl to death with a brick.
Carl’s death occurred during Emmerdale’s 40th anniversary live episode, which was watched by an audience of 8.8 million.
We just hate him! (Credit: ITV)
Thomas ‘Tom’ King
Thomas ‘Tom’ King is the son of Carl and Colleen King, brother of Anya King and the nephew of Jimmy King.
Tom was named after his paternal grandfather, Tom King, and has followed in his late Uncle Max’s footsteps by becoming a vet.
The character has been played by four different actors since 2004 and is currently portrayed by James Chase.
Tom is the husband of Belle Dingle, but behind closed doors has been subjecting his wife to violent abuse and coercive control.
Tom showed signs of having a dark side from an early age.
He blamed Chas for his father’s murder and subjected her to a campaign of terror – sending disturbing photographs and making anonymous threatening calls.
Tom’s stalking was eventually discovered and he went to live with his mum in Saudi Arabia in 2013.
He returned to the Dales a decade later and charmed his way into Belle’s affections.
Since their marriage in February 2024, Tom has been subjecting Belle to a horrendous campaign of physical and mental abuse.
Anya could make a comeback to sort her brother out (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Anya King
The daughter of Carl and Colleen King and the sister of Tom King Jnr, Anya has never been a regular character, but has appeared on screen numerous times.
Anya moved with her mum to Saudi Arabia in 2010, but returned with Thomas at Christmas for her dad’s wedding to Chas. However, she left swiftly after the disastrous ceremony.
She then made her final appearance in 2012 after her father’s death. Brother Tom has mentioned her since his return, commenting that they are not close.
But could we see Anya reappear at some point soon?
Poor Max wasn’t like his brothers – and paid the price for it (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Max King – the youngest son
Maxwell Harold ‘Max’ King was the youngest son of Tom and Mary King, played by Charlie Kemp.
He was the brother of Jimmy, Matthew and Carl King, as well as the half-brother of Scarlett Nicholls.
Max arrived in Emmerdale in early 2005, almost a year after the introduction of the rest of the King clan.
Unlike his money-hungry brothers, Max had zero interest in the family firm. He’d trained at university to become a vet and spent time travelling the world.
In late 2005, Tom bullied Max into helping him acquire some land by poisoning the animals that belonged to the owners.
Unable to live with the guilt of what he’d done, Max decided to flee the village – but was killed in a car crash on his way out.
He was only 25-years-old.
Secret daughter Scarlett held her own against her brothers (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Scarlett Nicholls
Tom King Senior’s illegitimate daughter with Carrie Nicholls, who nursed his wife Mary as she was dying of cancer, was only revealed to her half brother’s after Tom’s death. His will revealed he had left her 25 percent of Home Farm and 10 percent of King & Sons, to be held in trust until her 18th birthday.
Scarlett was born in 1991 and met her brothers when she was 15. She became close to Jimmy and decided to stay under Jimmy’s care when Carrie emigrated to Canada. However after being betrayed by brother Carl and boyfriend Adam Barton cheated on her, Scarlett left for Canada too in 2011.
She returned after Carl’s death in 2012 and supported Jimmy during the will reading. However she then went back to Canada and hasn’t been seen since.
Scarlett was played by Kelsey-Beth Crossley.
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.
