In Emmerdale spoilers for tonight, the aftermath of the limo lake crash continues, with villagers struggling to come to terms with the losses.
Along with this, everyone involved in the cover-up of Anthony’s murder gather to talk about their next moves. And some are shocked.
And after losing three villagers, everyone gathers to hold a vigil.
Read on for full Emmerdale spoilers for tonight (Monday 24 February).
A crisis meeting is held (Credit: ITV)
Crisis meeting is held
As the truth about Cain and Ruby was revealed, so was the fact that Caleb tried to frame his brother for murder.
And tonight, everyone who knows about Anthony’s death gather for a crisis-meeting. One thing that’s important for a murder cover-up is being on the same team. But that’s not the case for them.
As they begin to bicker, they are all shocked to realise Caleb was ready to let Cain go down for it. Will their story start to fall apart?
What’s on Manpreet’s phone? (Credit: ITV)
Manpreet is coy at a vigil
Paying respects to those who died in the limo crash, the villagers hold a vigil.
Last week we said goodbye to Suzy, Leyla and Amy in heartbreaking scenes. So, it’s no surprise that the villagers want to do something to honour the huge lives that were lost.
But Manpreet has been getting messages, and she decides to play coy about them.
What were they? And who was sending them?
The villagers gather to mourn (Credit: ITV)
Suspicion begins over Noah’s drugging
The mystery of why Joe drugged Noah is still unknown. At the moment, nobody knows that he had anything to do with it. But there is only so long Joe can get away with his secrets.
However, tonight someone begins to get suspicious about Noah’s drugging. But who is it? And were they suspicious of Joe?
Elsewhere
Away from that, Victoria receives a gift. What is it? And who was it from?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release at 7am on ITVX.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm on ITV3.
Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. Let us know your thoughts!
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
In today’s Classic Emmerdale spoilers airing on ITV3 on Wednesday, December 11, Pearl’s money troubles get worse, there’s tension between Jack and Diane, and Daz’s mum is back.
These episodes originally aired on June 1 and 2, 2006.
Pearl gets in deeper
Pearl is determined to finish the silk flower order, and with Eric out of the factory she sees her chance. But when she’s caught red-handed by Eric himself, he fires her on the spot and demands his money back by 5pm the next day, leaving Pearl in despair.
Mum troubles
Daz’s mum Denise returns to the village after a call from Victoria. Daz agrees to meet Denise but he tells her he won’t be leaving with her. Instead, he says he’s going back to live with Katie and Andy at Butler’s.
Victoria’s in trouble for interfering (Credit:ITV/Shutterstock)
Jack’s being grumpy
Jack and Andy are annoyed with Victoria for interfering and Jack grounds her. But she’s cross too, especially when Andy lectures her about what it’s like to have a mother like Denise. Later, though, Victoria apologises. While Diane warns Jack to put Vic first rather than worrying about Andy and Daz.
Pearl lies to Val about the investments (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Classic Emmerdale spoilers: Pearl scams Val
Later, Pearl shares her worries with Edna who urges her to be honest with Len. But when Val asks for details of the investment scheme, Pearl spots another opportunity. She takes Val’s money – pretending she’s going to invest it – and repays Eric.
Pearl’s left hating herself while Eric is suspicious.
Jack’s even more grumpy in Classic Emmerdale
Wanting to build bridges with Daz, Diane offers him a job collecting glasses at the pub. But Jack isn’t happy with Diane’s idea.
Elsewhere, Toni worries she’s messed things up with Paddy. Shadrach turns up at the night cafe wanting a freebie, but Donna sends him packing.
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
Emmerdale has been on air for an incredible 52 years and the village has been home to thousands of characters, but who are the longest-serving? While there are no original characters still in the show, there are others who have on screen for a significant number of years.
Eric Pollard comes out on top with 38 years of service, but which locals, past and present, have clocked up decades in the Dales?
Here’s a rundown of the 20 longest-serving Emmerdale characters of all time. Is your favourite on there?
Eric Pollard has been on our screens for 38 incredible years (Credit: ITV)
Longest-serving Emmerdale characters: 1. Eric Pollard
The award for the longest-serving character in Emmerdale history goes to the one and only Eric Pollard. It’s been 38 – yes, 38 – years since the former antiques dealer stepped foot in the famous village. He was only meant to stay for 12 episodes, but now has over 3300 under his belt.
Chris Chittell, who is also Emmerdale’s longest-serving actor, quickly won fans over with his portrayal of immoral Eric. He made his first appearance on September 30, 1986 and soon became a permanent fixture.
Pollard has certainly packed a lot into his nearly four decades in the Dales. He’s been married five times, committed fraud, bigamy and discovered he had a son he never knew existed.
Eric may be a pensioner living with Parkinson’s every day, but don’t be fooled – there’s still life in the sly old fox!
Annie Sugden was Emmerdale’s original matriarch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
2. Annie Sugden
Sugden matriarch Annie was the beating heart of the village, particularly in the early days of Emmerdale.
Annie was introduced back in the first episode, which aired on October 16, 1972. She was portrayed by actress Sheila Mercier, and remains the longest-serving female character in the soap’s 52-year history.
The Sugdens were Emmerdale’s central family and headed up by Annie, who was a real heroine. She had practically raised her three children – Jack, Peggy and Joe – singlehandedly, while managing to run a busy farm.
Annie was also a true survivor, and overcame financial troubles, addiction battles, and even nearly being killed in the 1993 plane crash. She left the village in July 1994 to start a new life in sunny Spain.
She popped back a few times over the years, making her last appearance on February 2009, in what was her 1595th episode. Annie died off screen in August 2020, aged 100.
Jack Sugden was the life blood of the village (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
3. Jack Sugden
Another member of the OG Emmerdale gang, Jack Sugden became one of the show’s most important characters.
He was originally played by actor Andrew Burt on and off between 1972 and 1976. In 1980, Jack made a permanent return to the village, and the role was taken over by Clive Hornby.
For the next 28 years, Jack was a staple of village life. An experienced and hard-working farmer, he was a respected pillar of the community. He lost his first two wives in tragic circumstances, but found happiness with Woolpack landlady, Diane Blackstock.
The biggest headache in Jack’s life were his children – particularly his sons Robert and Andy, who formed a long-running rivalry.
Following Clive Hornby’s sad death in July 2008 the decision was made to kill Jack’s character off. He died the following February while visiting his mum, Annie in Spain. Jack’s body was returned to his beloved village and laid to rest in the local cemetery.
In total, Jack was in Emmerdale for 35 years and four months.
Kim has been delivering the drama since 1989 (Credit: ITV)
4. Kim Tate
Coming in at fourth place for years in service, is the indomitable lady of the manor, Kim Tate.
As the glamorous gold-digging wife of millionaire Frank, Kim made her debut on December 12, 1989. The Tates arrival in the village marked the dawn of a new ‘sexier’ era for the soap. And Kim had sex appeal galore!
Played by the brilliant Claire King, Kim is best known for her steamy love affairs, criminal capers and the moment she stood and watched Frank die and did nothing. She’s entertained millions for over 1500 episodes.
Kim was away from the Dales between 1999 and 2018, but has now been back on the throne of Home Farm for six years. And long may she reign!
Robert has been off our screens for five long years (Credit: ITV)
Longest-serving Emmerdale characters: 5. Robert Sugden
The time between Robert Sugden’s first and last appearances is an impressive 33 years and seven months.
The son of the late Jack and Pat Sugden, Robert made his first appearance on the day of his birth – April 22, 1986. Since then, the character has been played by four different actors, most recently Ryan Hawley.
Robert’s one of Emmerdale’s most popular, yet flawed, figures. His standout storylines include the love triangle between him, Katie Addyman and his adoptive brother, Andy. And of course, his iconic affair with Aaron Dingle. Robron forever!
The character’s last episode on-screen was November 1, 2019, when he was sentenced to 14 years in prison for manslaughter. Here’s hoping they let him out for good behaviour so the fans can get the comeback they’re craving.
Alan Turner was another fan favourite in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
6. Alan Turner
Many fans will remember Alan Turner as the iconic and kind-hearted landlord of The Woolpack. But he wasn’t always a cuddly grandfather figure.
When Alan arrived on March 18, 1982 he was a ruthless and pompous businessman who made his fair share of enemies. But time mellowed him and and Alan ended up becoming a highly respected local and friend to many.
Actor Richard Thorp, who was previously known for his roles in British films such as The Dambusters and The Barrets of Wimpole Street, played Alan for 2696 episodes until his death in June 2013. The character was written out of the show, and died off-screen in October 2013, with the village mourning his passing.
Victoria has lived her whole life in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
7. Victoria Sugden
This year marked Victoria Sugden’s 30th on Emmerdale – and what a journey it’s been!
Born to Jack and Sarah Sugden on March 31, 1994, Vic has lived in the village her entire life. She was originally played by Jessica Heywood, then Hannah Midgley, before Isabel Hodgins took over the part in 2006.
Victoria has had an eventful life so far. She underwent emergency surgery as a baby, lost both her parents at a young age, had a stint in psychiatric care, split from husband Adam Barton and was the victim of a rape attack that resulted in the birth of her son, Harry. After a short-lived romance with toyboy Jacob Gallagher, Victoria is focusing her energies on getting to know her long-lost half-brother, John.
Her character has been without a big storyline for a while, but being part of such an iconic brood, we think Vic will always have a home in Emmerdale.
Sam is now the longest-serving Dingle (Credit: ITV)
8. Sam Dingle
Sam’s staying power is pretty impressive. Next year, the much-loved Dingle, and actor James Hooton (who’s played Sam from the start) will be celebrating their 30th anniversaries on the show. This means Sam is the longest-serving Dingle.
Zak’s third son arrived in Emmerdale on Valentine’s Day 1995 straight from a Young Offenders Institution. Sam’s always been the most gentle and naive of the Dingle clan, but has toughened up with age. That’s what life in the Dales does to you!
He’s experienced terrible heartache, losing his first love, Alice to cancer when their son Samson was a few months old. But Sam has since found his happy ending with wife Lydia, and the arrival of his granddaughter, Esther.
There’s never a dull moment when Mandy is around (Credit: ITV)
9. Mandy Dingle
Bubbly, brash and a bit bonkers – there’s no mistaking Mandy Dingle. She’s been bringing her own brand of craziness to Emmerdale on and off for over 29 years. Wow!
We first clapped eyes on Mand on July 20, 1995 when she came to live with her Uncle Zak after being kicked out of home. The character turned actress Lisa Riley into a household name.
After two disastrous marriages – the first to her own cousin, Butch, then local vet Paddy Kirk – Mandy left the village in 2000. She returned 19 years later with son Vinny in tow (although it’s now transpired he’s actually Tina Dingle’s offspring).
Mandy is now happily re-married to Paddy, but for how long?
Zak Dingle is sorely missed by everyone (Credit: ITV)
Zak was the strong-willed head of the Dingle family and a staple on our screens for 28 years and eight months.
A former notorious bare-knuckle boxing champ, Zak was introduced on October 20, 1994. Over the years, more and more members of the Dingle clan were introduced – from children, to cousins and other distant relatives.
The man behind Zak Dingle was Bury born actor Steve Halliwell. He starred in 2929 episodes, but was forced to step down in June 2023 due to ill health. Steve sadly died on December 15, 2023 at the age of 77.
Just missing out on a place in the top 10 (for now) is everyone’s favourite chef, Marlon Dingle. Played by Mark Charnock, he’s been a permanent fixture since his arrival on October 17, 1996. That means he’s been on our screens for 28 years.
Although not an obvious Romeo, Marlon has been married five times. His current missus is Rhona Goskirk, but arguably the real love of Marlon’s life is his best mate, Paddy, who’s lived in the village nearly as long as he has.
Mark was recognised for his incredible soap career in May 2023 when he received the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement. In his acceptance speech the actor joked his almost three decades on the show was ‘the longest streak of luck in television history’!
Paddy has been on one heck of a journey (Credit: ITV)
12. Paddy Dingle
There’s only one man that could follow on from Marlon – his bestie, Paddy Dingle.
We bet when actor Dominic Brunt’s first episode aired on February 20, 1997, he wouldn’t have dreamed he’d still be here 27 years later. And like Marlon, Paddy has never had any time out from the village.
The local vet started out as a locum before settling in the Dales and opening his own practice. Unlike his professional job, Paddy’s personal life has been rather more chaotic. He’s been married five times to four different women, had a few steamy affairs, and battled crippling depression.
So after more than 3200 episodes, we’re wondering what the writers have in store next for Paddy?
Lisa was brave enough to take on Zak’s family (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
13. Lisa Dingle
Oh lovely Lisa, she was another great character who left us too soon.
Zak’s kind-hearted second wife and mum to Belle, Lisa was the glue that held the Dingles together. She came to the Dales on August 13, 1996 and viewers quickly took her into their hearts.
Fans were outraged when Zak left Lisa for Joanie Wright, but he soon came to his senses. The soulmates wed in a tear-jerking ceremony on May 24, 2019, but by this point Lisa was dying. She slipped away peacefully at Wishing Well Cottage just hours after saying ‘I do’, marking the end of a 23 year stretch on the soap.
Lisa’s last appearance was via voice in February 2024 when Belle read a letter from her late mum.
Seth’s character was originally intended to stay for a few episodes (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
14. Seth Armstrong
Gamekeeper Seth is no longer with us, but he will always be remembered as one of the all time greats.
Identifiable by famous handlebar moustache and woolly beanie hat, Seth was what you might call a loveable rogue. He was introduced on May 16, 1978, but was only meant to be for a few episodes. He stayed for 26 years, seven months.
However, the fans really took to actor Stan Richards’ portrayal of Seth and by 1980 he was a full-time regular. In total, he featured in 1862 episodes.
Seth is probably best remembered for his romance with Betty Eagleton. The golden oldies had been sweethearts when they were young, but proved to us all love has no age.
Seth was written out of the show in 2003 due to Stan Richards’ ailing health. The character made his last appearance on December 24, 2004 via a video call with Betty. Stan died in February 2005 and Seth was given an off-screen death in October of the same year.
Belle has become one of Emmerdale’s most important characters (Credit: ITV)
Longest-serving Emmerdale characters: 15. Belle Dingle
Like Victoria Sugden, Belle Dingle is another Dales lifer.
The character made a memorable entrance into the show on Christmas Day 1998 when she was born in a pigsty. Belle was originally played by twins Emily and James Mather (the latter of whom stopped appearing in 2000). From 2005, she’s been portrayed by Eden Taylor-Draper.
Belle’s been through a lot for a lass her age. She’s survived falling down a mineshaft, she accidentally murdered her best friend, had an affair with a married man and has battled schizophrenia. 2024 has been beyond hellish for Belle with the ordeal she’s suffered at the hands of her abusive husband, Tom King.
Now approaching her 26th birthday, Belle has featured in over 1960 episodes.
Kim Tate’s son Jamie was a chip off the old block (Credit: ITV)
16. Jamie Tate
Surprising as it seems, but Jamie Tate makes it into the top 20 of Emmerdale’s longest-running characters.
Kim gave birth to her only child on September 24, 1996 at Hotten General Hospital. He was at the centre of a ‘Who’s the Daddy’ storyline, as Kim wasn’t sure if Jamie was Frank’s or her lover Dave Glover’s son. It later transpired he was Frank’s. During his first three years Jamie was portrayed by no fewer than five different actors.
Jamie left the village via helicopter in 1999, and spent two decades away. He returned in 2019 (this time played by Alexander Lincoln), a qualified vet, with a wife and daughter in tow. Jamie soon proved he had inherited his mother’s appetite for adultery and general manipulation.
After causing chaos for a couple of years, Jamie did the off again in September 2021 and faked his own death. So far, Jamie has starred in 472 episodes, and the door has been left open for his return.
Bernice always made an impression wherever she went (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
17. Bernice Blackstock
She may have been a bit of a Marmite character, but Bernice Blackstock clocked up a lot of years in Emmerdale.
Work brought the redhead to the Dales, and she was introduced to viewers on November 25, 1998 as the new barmaid of The Woolpack. Bernice rose through the ranks and actually ended up becoming landlady. She’s also best remembered for her marriage to Reverend Ashley Thomas, and running the Grange B&B with Bob Hope.
Bernice had several stints in the village, the longest being seven years, but in 2023 actress Samantha Giles announced she was quitting the soap. The character left under a cloud of shame after being exposed for tax fraud.
Bernice’s last episode aired on November 14, 2023, marking her 1630th appearance. She’s now currently living in exile on the Costa del Sol, and no doubt getting up to mischief.
Cain is the new head of the Dingle family (Credit: ITV)
18. Cain Dingle
It’s almost been a quarter of a century since Cain came into our lives. And how glad we are he did.
The Dingle bad boy, first showed up at his cousin Butch’s funeral on March 30, 2000. And he’s been here ever since, bar when actor Jeff Hordley took a three year hiatus between 2006 and 2009.
Cain is one of the show’s most popular characters and it’s not hard to see why. His criminal capers and affairs of the heart are legendary, as is his loyalty towards his beloved brood. With Zak now dearly departed Cain has assumed the role as head of the village’s most iconic clan, and we reckon he’ll do a brilliant job at it.
Charity Dingle is a classic Emmerdale icon (Credit: ITV)
19. Charity Dingle
Another big fan favourite, Charity Dingle has been shaking things up since she got here on March 30, 2000. Yes, she arrived on exactly the same day Cain did – which was quite fitting given the pair’s history.
Much like her cousin, Charity has had a very colourful life. She’s lived on the streets as a prostitute, been the victim of abuse, served time in jail, been married four times and managed to find the time to have four children.
Played by Emma Atkins, Charity is the current landlady of The Woolpack, which she runs with son Ryan Stocks. She’s now under 100 episodes shy of the 3000 mark.
Bob has given us some good laughs over the years (Credit: ITV)
Longest-serving Emmerdale characters: 20. Bob Hope
Cheeky chap Bob Hope has providing entertainment in Emmerdale for 24 years. That’s a lot of laughs!
He made his debut on September 19, 2000. Back then Bob was working as a stocking salesman and made an instant impression on postmistress Viv Windsor. The flirty pair went on to marry, and Viv became the fourth Mrs Hope. She wasn’t the last though, Bob was also hitched to Brenda Walker for about five minutes until she found out he was sleeping with Laurel Thomas. Yes, despite his cringey character, Bob is quite the ladies’ man.
Actor Tony Audenshaw will be celebrating his quarter of a century on the show next year, and is approaching his 3000th episode. Now that calls for a double celebration!
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
Robert Sugden in Emmerdale is one of the soap’s ‘legacy’ characters. Born on-screen to one of the show’s most iconic families, he was at the heart of all sorts of drama during his years on Emmerdale.
Here’s the lowdown on what he’s been doing and where he is now.
A Robert comeback would through Aaron’s world upside down (Credit: ITV)
Robert Sugden in Emmerdale: The early years
Robert’s dad was Jack Sugden and his mum was Jack’s first wife, Pat. He has an older brother, Jackie Merrick, as well as two half siblings, sister Sandie and brother Tommy.
Robert’s mum was killed in a car accident when he was only four months old. When Jack remarried – to Sarah – she brought him up as her own, along with new baby Victoria and eventually adopted brother, Andy.
Sarah Sugden’s death
Sarah Sugden died in a barn fire set by Andy who thought he was helping the family finances – he thought they could claim on the insurance. When Robert found out Andy was responsible for his mum’s death, it started a feud between the brothers.
Robert cheated on Katie with Sadie King (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Andy, Katie and Robert love triangle in Emmerdale
Andy and his childhood sweetheart Katie Addyman were happy – or so Andy thought – but she started an affair with Robert! When Andy found out he was devastated. Katie and Robert got engaged but he cheated with Sadie King and that was the end of their engagement!
With Robert’s feud with Andy at boiling point, the pair embarked on a lethal game of chicken. Except Max King had asked Andy for a lift and was in his Land Rover as he took on Robert. Andy crashed into a wall and though he escaped, Max was killed when the car blew up.
Wanting to avoid prison, Robert legged it and only returned to watch his dad Jack’s funeral from a distance.
Robert returns to Emmerdale
Nine years after Max’s death, Robert returned to Emmerdale engaged to Chrissie White. By this time, Andy and Katie had rekindled their romance and were planning a wedding but Robert immediately began meddling.
He had offensive messages engraved on the pair’s wedding rings, leaving the newlyweds fuming!
Katie caught Robert and Aaron together (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Killing Katie!
Desperate for revenge, Katie was convinced that Robert was cheating on Chrissie. She threw herself into finding out who he was having an affair with and was shocked to discover it was Aaron Dingle.
Robert and Katie had a furious argument ending with him shoving her and sending her plummeting through some rotten floorboards. Aaron and Robert covered it up and let Andy find his new wife, and assume it was a tragic accident.
When Paddy found out the truth, Robert tried to kill him in a grain silo.
Who shot Robert in Emmerdale?
Andy was devastated and furious and wanted to get rid of Robert for good. He made a Strangers on a Train style deal with Ross Barton, each agreeing to kill the other’s brother.
When Robert was shot, there were a whole list of suspects, but Ross wasn’t among them! When Robert found out Andy had been involved there was another game of chicken (do they never learn?!). Andy crashed his car, but this time Robert pulled him from the wreckage and they called a truce.
Robert and Aaron eventually tied the knot (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Robron
Robert and Aaron’s romance was one of fans’ favourite Emmerdale storylines of all time. During the drama of the Hotton by-pass crash, the pair got engaged and planned a huge wedding!
But of course nothing is that easy in Emmerdale! Aaron went back to prison for a bit, he had a brief drug addiction, and then Robert slept with his sister-in-law Rebecca White – mum to Seb who’s being mentioned on screen a lot at the moment. But finally Robron made it down the aisle!
However, their happiness – and fans’ pleasure at their union – wasn’t too last…
Emmerdale: Why is Robert in prison?
During a night out in Hotton, which was filled with drama, Victoria met a man called Lee Posner. He didn’t take no for an answer and raped her in her own house after the night out. Victoria was devastated and locked herself away for a while before she eventually told her shocked family the truth about the rape – and the fact that she was pregnant.
Lee got away with his crime, until Robert took his own revenge. He whacked Lee with a shovel and he died. Robert was sent to jail. He set Aaron free and has subsequently refused to see Victoria. We now also know he has signed his rights away to son Seb following Rebecca’s death.
Later we discovered that it was possibly Lee’s brother, Luke, who’d been responsible for killing him. But Robert remains behind bars.
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
Darren ‘Daz’ Eden arrived in Emmerdale in 2003 looking for his half brother, Andy Sugden. He was initially a troublemaker, but managed to reform.
He had a strained relationship with his brother, particularly when it came to Andy’s relationships with Katie and Jo. Daz had his own romantic connections, most notably with Victoria, who many saw as Daz’s sibling.
Here is Daz’s story.
He loved to cause chaos (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)
Daz the troublemaker
Daz arrived in the Dales in October 2003 searching for his half brother, Andy Sugden. The two shared the same dad – Billy Hopwood.
He was initially a tearaway and immediately took to stealing cars. Daz drove away in Robert’s car, crashing into hay bales in the process. He later stole some more cars, including Jack’s.
When he was punished by being sentenced to community service, he was hoping to do this at Scott’s garage, but Scott refused, meaning Daz would have to go to a young offenders institute. Daz got his revenge by setting fire to the garage.
Relationship with his brother
When Daz came to the village, Andy was in a relationship with Katie. Katie was having an affair with Andy’s brother Robert, which was discovered by Daz.
Katie threatened Daz and told him that Andy wouldn’t believe him. This turned out to be the case and Katie persuaded Andy to put Daz into care. But when the truth finally came out, Andy visited Daz and persuaded him to come back to the farm.
However, after finally feeling secure and loved by his brother, Andy surprised Daz by getting back with Katie. Daz told Andy he had to choose between him and Katie – Andy chose Katie. Daz then moved in with Jack.
They faced further trouble later on when Daz discovered Andy had been hitting girlfriend Jo. Daz punched Andy but immediately regretted it as he didn’t want to be like Andy or his dad.
Daz’s mum and dad
Daz’s mum Denise did not appear in many Emmerdale episodes, but when she did, she managed to convince her son she was a changed woman. Daz briefly left the Dales to go live with her, but returned a couple of months later.
Denise returned and insisted Daz make amends with her boyfriend, but he refused. When Diane and Jack decided to start adoption proceedings for Daz, Denise was happy to allow it.
However, Daz’s dad Billy – who was in prison – was not as keen. He felt the Sugdens had already stolen one of his sons.
Upon his release from prison, Billy arrived in the Dales. He got a job and tried to make amends with his sons. Andy told him that Jack was his dad, but Billy did manage to bond with Daz. The relationship was later damaged though when Billy had an affair with Diane.
Daz had a brief fling with Victoria (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)
Romantic connection with Victoria and Emmerdale exit
After having a crush on Jasmine Thomas, Daz dated Penny Drury. He then met Scarlett Nicholls, the daughter of Tom King, in 2007. Scarlett took a liking to him immediately and they eventually got together.
However, while he was with Scarlett, he formed a deep connection with Victoria Sugden, who was like a sister to him. The two kissed on Christmas Day in 2008 and then slept together a few months later. Victoria thought this meant they could be a couple, but Daz said it was a mistake and he wanted to stay with Scarlett.
To get revenge, Victoria slept with Aaron at Daz’s house and they were caught by Scarlett and Daz. Daz was angry and went for Aaron before Victoria blurted out that it was Daz’s fault as he didn’t want her any more. Realising they had more than a brother/sister relationship, Aaron and Scarlett were disgusted.
Aaron immediately told Andy, who was equally disgusted. He told Daz to leave and never return. Daz did just that. On his way out of the village, he stopped by the farm to see if he could get a last glimpse of Victoria, but he quickly left as he didn’t want to risk Andy seeing him.
Who played Daz Eden?
Daz was played by Luke Tittensor. Luke has a twin brother, Elliott, who is also an actor. The twins shared the role of Carl Gallagher in Shameless before Elliott took on the role on his own.
Luke then landed the role of Daz in Emmerdale. After leaving Emmerdale, Luke played Connor in Waterloo Road. He has also appeared in Casualty, Holby City and Moving On.
More recently, he secured the role of Ser Arryk Cargyll in House of the Dragon, alongside his twin brother, who plays Ser Erryk Cargyll.
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
Ladies of Emmerdale watch out – Ross Barton is back in town, and he’s a single man. This week’s episodes of the soap followed the fallout as the village badboy returned, setting the cat among the pigeons.
As he refamilarised himself with his neighbours, Ross dropped the news that Rebecca had died. Rebecca and Ross originally left the village together with her son Seb, for a new life in Liverpool, back in 2018.
Ross told Charity that Rebecca’s dead (Credit: ITV)
Ross reveals what happened to Rebecca and Seb
However, it seems like their happily ever after wasn’t to last – with the pair first breaking up, and then Rebecca dying during a routine surgery. Last night (Thursday, October 31) Ross revealed that Seb had gone to live with one of Rebecca’s relatives – leaving him as a single man.
This left fans wondering who Ross’s future love interests might be.
Victoria is just one of many names fans think Ross could hook up with (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale fans place their bets on future love for Ross
Writing on a Reddit thread, fans shared their thoughts on who Ross might set his sights on.
“Charity, Tracy or Dawn,” suggested one fan.
Ross has history with both Charity and Dawn of course; with Charity being the mother of his child, and Dawn being a former sex worker who bonded with Ross over their past trauma and addiction issues.
With Ross having clashed with Billy in the ring, the pair are already at loggerheads. Can writers resist pairing him with Dawn?
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 Emmerdale tonight, Victoria grew suspicious of John and went snooping around… because that always turns out well.
Meanwhile, Will warned Kim he won’t go quietly in the divorce.
Also, Belle received a call to say her old house had been left in a mess so she went in with Lydia to investigate.
Here’s everything that went on in Emmerdale tonight, Monday September 23.
John caught Victoria in his van (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale tonight: Victoria snoops on John
Eager to learn more about her long lost brother, John, Victoria invited him to join her and Matty for lunch, telling him she had found some old family photos. However, during lunch, John was constantly distracted by his phone.
“I’m trying to tell you about my dead mum and you can’t stop gawping at your phone,” Victoria snapped. She then took John’s phone and read his messages – which is pretty unacceptable.
Considering this complete lack of respect for his privacy, John remained pretty calm. He asked for his phone back, but Victoria ignored him and asked why Aaron was messaging him “like that.” John left the pub, causing Victoria to fume that she was being kept in the dark by both John and Aaron.
Thank goodness for Matty, who told Victoria that they didn’t need her permission to talk to each other. Basically a polite way of telling her that she should probably mind her own business and keep her nosey beak out of it.
But of course she didn’t do that. She headed to John’s van. When he didn’t respond to her knocking, she opened the door and climbed in – as you do. She had a good hunt around and found the dog tag with the name ‘Aidan Moore’ on. John returned to the van and was annoyed to find Victoria invading his privacy yet again.
When she said she just wanted him to be honest, John responded: “I wish I had never met you, so I want you to get out of my van and stay out of my life. Honest enough for you?”
While Victoria’s snooping is not OK, John is obviously hiding something. But what is it? And who is Aidan Moore?
Kim and Will have broken up (Credit: ITV)
Kim and Will: It’s war
Following the events of last week in which Kim was revealed to be her own husband’s blackmailer, things continued to be nasty between Will and Kim.
Kim caught Will at the stables, attempting to take her horses and sell them at an auction. “I seem to remember you put these nags in my name as a tax dodge,” Will sniped.
Kim reminded him he wouldn’t get very far without passports and paperwork, which she had locked in the safe. Kim underestimating Will was a popular theme in tonight’s episode and one that later came back to bite her.
She later had a meeting about the divorce and her assets where the financial advisor warned her that prenups weren’t as tight as you’d think and Will could attempt to go for half of everything (something Laurel and Jai know only too well). Kim was once again dismissive of this, claiming Will wouldn’t even have sought legal advice yet.
Later in the Woolpack, Kim was shocked to see Will doing business with Caleb – selling his share of the Haulage yard no less. Kim sneered at Will, insisting he had sold the yard for less than it was worth and told him Caleb was playing him. Will hinted that the deal included something a little extra too…
Back at Home Farm, Kim had the shock of her life when she discovered exactly what that little extra was. Walking into her lounge, Kim saw Will casually sprawled on the sofa like nothing had happened. “If you want to talk to me you can call my brief,” Will told Kim.
Then came the killer blow when he informed her his brief was a pretty good one – Caleb had hooked him up with his one, nicknamed Pitbull, which, let’s be honest, doesn’t sound like someone you’d want to be on the wrong side of.
Will had received some pretty good advice, that it wasn’t wise to leave the house as it weakens his case – “half of everything, he reckons,” Will smirked.
Kim was absolutely fuming with Will – and probably with herself, for underestimating her husband – but she still got the last word, telling him: “If you want a war, you’ve got one. You will regret this because I never lose.” And, Kim’s right, this Queen never loses.
Belle and Lydia made a discovery (Credit: ITV)
Also in Emmerdale tonight
Belle received a call to say she’d missed the house inspection and the house was a mess. She said that as she didn’t live there anymore she didn’t realise she had to be there.
Later, she went back to the house. Lydia saw her waiting outside and went in with her. Once inside they stepped on something which they quickly realised was a camera and Tom must have dropped it on his way out when trying to hide the evidence.
Meanwhile, Laurel and Claudette spent the episode clashing, with Charles stuck in the middle. Laurel had some ideas for the Harvest Festival as well as ways in which Charles could update his sermons. Claudette was dismissive of them all.
Charles defended his mum. Laurel then told him that if he didn’t modernise, his mum would be the only one in the congregation. Has she given Charles food for thought?
Makeups and breakups are part and parcel of soaps, and Emmerdale is no exception.
Last week, Kim Tate and Will Taylor joined the ever growing list of couples who have split after she ended their marriage due to him keeping the truth about his night with Rose from her.
In true Kim Tate style though, she didn’t simply break up with Will. No, she blackmailed him and then had him dig a grave – as you do.
Only time will tell if they find their way back together. In the meantime, here are the other major Emmerdale couples who have fallen by the wayside this year…
Nate left the village alone (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale split: Tracy and Nate
Tracy and Nate split earlier this year after she had an affair with Caleb just months into their marriage.
The affair made Tracy realise that she didn’t love Nate and she told the poor guy that she hadn’t even been in love with him on their wedding day. How to kick a man when he is down – you probably could have kept that bit to yourself, hey Tracy…
During the summer, it looked like a reunion might be on the cards and Tracy even agreed to her and Frankie joining Nate in Scotland, where he had received a job offer.
However, after Moira kissed Nate, his family got the wrong end of the stick and turned against him, leading him to leave for Scotland on his own. Though we never actually saw him leave…
Victoria and Jacob initially kept their relationship a secret (Credit: ITV)
Victoria and Jacob
Jacob and Victoria’s relationship initially started out as a secret because she understandably didn’t want people to know she was dating her ex boyfriend’s young son.
Once the relationship was out in the open, Jacob’s dad David left the village after feeling betrayed by his son and ex girlfriend.
The relationship came to an end this year when Jacob turned down a placement in Berlin in order to stay with Victoria. Following this, his mum Leyla accused Victoria of holding her son back.
Victoria agreed with Leyla’s assessment and decided to end things with Jacob, leaving him heartbroken as he begged her to reconsider.
Manpreet tried to get back with Charles (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale split: Charles and Manpreet
In the wake on his son Ethan’s death, Charles struggled to accept any support from his partner Manpreet and he called time on their relationship.
Charles’ mum Claudette tried to meddle and told Manpreet that there was still a chance for the pair. But with Charles struggling with trust issues, his mind was made up.
Despite the pair getting together in 2021, it was revealed that they’d actually known each other 15 years previously, but she left him at the alter on their wedding day.
Charles cruelly told Manpreet that he hadn’t trusted her since she left him at the alter 20 years ago. So why he got back together with her later and stayed with her for a few years is anybody’s guess…
Tom abused Belle (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale split: Belle and Tom
One break up we were all ecstatic about was that of Belle and Tom. Having been abusive to Belle for most of their relationship, we were all desperate for her to get the strength to walk away.
That finally happened recently with Belle telling Tom that he can’t control her any more.
During their marriage, Tom mentally tortured Belle. As well as keeping tabs on her every move, he locked her in the house, tried to turn her against her family and even abused her dog Piper in his sick plot.
However, despite the pair no longer being a couple, Tom has continued to try and hurt Belle. One twisted move saw him give Piper away and pretend she had died. It’s easy to see what his new girlfriend Amelia sees in him…
Laurel and Jai continued to work together following their split (Credit: ITV)
Laurel and Jai
Another couple fans weren’t too upset to see the end of was Jai and Laurel.
The couple went their separate ways earlier this year following their rows over Amit’s departure and Jai’s betrayal of his half-brother Suni.
The line was completely crossed when Jai insulted Laurel’s late husband Ashley, leaving Laurel feeling disgusted that she’d ever married Jai.
In the wake of their split, Jai has continued to be cruel to Laurel. So we think it’s safe to say that those two thankfully won’t be getting back together.
Amelia couldn’t forgive Noah (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale split: Noah and Amelia
This young couple split after Amelia determined that Noah was responsible for Samson being sent to jail.
After Noah admitted he was the one responsible for grassing up Samson, Amelia saw this as a betrayal – given that Samson is the father of her young daughter.
Noah was eager to continue to be a part of young Esther’s life as he has been like a father figure to the girl – even setting up a trust fund for her. But Amelia told him he needed to stay away, even cruelly telling him that Esther is young enough to forget about him.
Amelia has now moved on to abuser Tom, so she may soon come to regret letting Noah go.
In Emmerdale, Victoria Sugden is delighted to have discovered a new half-brother, John. But John’s prickly nature and love of keeping secrets isn’t going down well with family-loving Vic.
We caught up with Isabel Hodgins, who plays Victoria, to find out how she’s feeling about the new member of her family.
“I think she’s very happy,” Isabel tells us. “I think she’s been on her own for quite a while. Emmerdale can be a lonely place when you haven’t got any family. So I think she’s thrilled that she’s finally got another Sugden around.”
Victoria’s desperate to get to know John (Credit: ITV)
Slow burner!
Though John was initially desperate to leave the village, he seems to be settling in. Does that mean he’s starting to warm to his new-found sister?
“I think ever so slightly,” laughs Isabel. “He’s a slow, he’s a slow burner that one. So it’s taken a while, but he’s starting to come around. But he really doesn’t care about the Sugdens. He’s very much thinking that he’s staying in the village until he can drive off in his van.”
And Victoria is the opposite! “She doesn’t care what’s going on as long as he stays,” admits Isabel. “I think that leaves her open to getting hurt. She’s not that bothered, actually, if he’s a good guy or not, or, you know, how he receives her because he’s not that warm. He’s not that friendly, but he’s a Sugden and he’s there. And that’s all that matters.”
John’s not giving anything away (Credit: ITV)
Family secrets
But Victoria is nothing, but not determined!
“So on this particular day, Vic’s kind of twisted John’s arm already to get him in the pub to show him some old pictures,” explains Isabel. “And she’s going through it, he’s really not interested and he’s really not bothered. Â And she’s getting nothing from John. He’s not interested. So she grabs his phone. She completely disrespects his boundaries, standard. And she sees that there’s quite a few texts off Aaron. And she sees that one is of a particular nature!”
So how does Vic feel about that?
“She’s very shocked to see that!” says Isabel. “So she asks him what’s going on, why is Aaron messaging you like that? I think she’s shocked because she’s now got this relationship with Aaron where it’s back to Victoria and Aaron rather than Aaron being with Robert. First and foremost at the minute, Aaron is her friend. So there’s a little sense of betrayal there as in how could he be doing this to me when he’s my friend?”
And she adds that there is another layer to how Vic is feeling. “Aaron has been involved with Robert and Aaron is a bit of a liability,” Isabel tells us. “If John and Aaron continue to see each other and it goes wrong, John’s going to leave the village. And that’s the last thing that she wants.
“She wants to get to know him and she’d love for him to open up to her. And I just think it’s like blow after blow after blow of going, oh, he really doesn’t consider me as family because he doesn’t confide in me. So I just think it’s constant frustration that she’s not really getting anywhere with him.”
John’s dog tag has the name Aidan Moore (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: John’s keeping more secrets from Victoria!
John’s been keeping secrets already – he didn’t tell Vic he’d been in the army, then didn’t tell her he was a medic until it was revealed during the fire. And so, Victoria ends up snooping round his van…
“I swear it is an accident,” laughs Isabel. “Because of how she behaved in the pub. So she goes to his van to find him and apologise, and would you believe the doors open? And she has a little snoop. And, you know, I’m a little sister in real life and we snoop. It’s what we do! She comes across some of his belongings and she has a good old nosy and she finds a dog tag with Aidan Moore on it.”
But of course, this is Emmerdale so as soon as Vic finds the tag, John arrives.
John’s angry with Vic when he finds her in the van (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: John angry at Victoria!
“He is angry with her, but she is suspicious because she’s just either been drip fed or found everything out by accident. And so I just think she wants the chance to be able to have a frank conversation.”
And what if John’s done something terrible? Would Victoria still want to know him?
” I think so,” Isabel muses. “Because, you know, Andy did questionable things. Robert did questionable things and she stood by them through whatever. So I think she’d be the same in John’s case.”
So is Isabel pleased to have another Sugden in the village? “It’s been really nice because obviously when I first came into it, there were so many of us and it was always seen as all around the table having breakfast and stuff. And as the years have gone on, the numbers have dwindled. So it’s nice to try and re-establish the Sugden family and the Sugden connection, really. So I’ve really enjoyed it.”
