‘This is actually sick – I’m switching off’ rage furious Emmerdale fans as soap reveals Tom King’s new victim
The storyline has already received more than a thousand Ofcom complaints
EMMERDALE fans have been left raging over the “sick” storyline set to air on tonight’s episode of the soap.
Many regular viewers have said they won’t be tuning into the episode (16 August) which sees Tom King claim a new victim.
Tom King will claim a new victim in tonight’s episode of EmmerdaleCredit: ITV
Tom will hurt Piper to exert his control over BelleCredit: IT
But soap fans think this storyline is taking it too farCredit: ITV
Over recent weeks, Emmerdale viewers have watched as Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) has tried to escape the clutches of her abusive husband Tom King (James Chase).
However, the twisted vet has continued to manipulate her and even watched her sleep on cameras he planted in her home.
Tonight, he will take his abuse to a new level as he becomes intent on harming Belle’s pet dog, Piper, to exert his control over her.
Tom is seen deliberately revving his car in the direction of the beloved animal.
“Tom is well aware of the control he can exert by using his dog in his abuse of Belle,” soap star James explained.
He continued: “This deliberate act, although horrifying, is Tom’s way of getting back in Belle’s life. He knows her reaction to Piper being injured will mean he can then be the one to comfort her and get close to her again. It’s a desperate act, but Tom is clutching at anything at this time.
Knowing what is coming in tonight’s episode, ITV fans have been left disgusted.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one regular viewer outright said they won’t be watching.
“Thanks for the warning, won’t be watching tonight’s episode now.. time to end this storyline,” they wrote.
While another said: “I am very disappointed in Emmerdale. This is actually sick. This storyline should have ended weeks ago when Belle was in that Welsh house. Thanks, I will not be watching.”
A third Emmerdale fan agreed that the storyline, which has received over 1000 Ofcom complaints, is taking it too far. “Who in their right mind would take this storyline this far? I think we’ve all got the point. There’s no need to include animal abuse, even if it’s only implied and not seen. Totally sick writing,” they complained.
“Why does anyone think it’s wise or clever to pursue this plotline? The point has been made. Remember, this is supposed to be family entertainment and not a psychotic drama,” a fourth criticised.
Ahead of this evening’s episode, Emmerdale has worked closely with the charities Refuge and The Dogs Trust regarding this storyline.
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, highlighted just how important it is.
“The recent storyline involving Belle, Tom and Piper is incredibly distressing, but sadly, it is reflective of what we too often see through our work,” he said.
While Emma Pickering, Head of Technology-Facilitated Abuse and Economic Empowerment at Refuge, added that it’s important for soaps not to shy away from difficult storylines like this, even in the face of so many Ofcom complaints.
“Domestic abuse is rooted in power and control and often abusers will focus their abuse onto pets, too,” Emma explained.
