Emmerdale airs at 8pm on ITV1
At the Dingles, breakfast is shattered when Belle’s Victim Liaison Officer turns up to tell her Tom will be released from prison soon. They reassure her that Tom will be subject to strict licence conditions when he’s released. Kammy is worried for her.
When Charles overhears Belle telling Nicola he can’t help remarking how not only has Tom been speaking to him in his role as a prison chaplain, but that Tom has accepted culpability and is wanting to seek Belle’s forgiveness.
Belle hates the fact Tom’s already back in her head before he’s even been released. With her mind racing Belle decides to confront the issue by visiting him. When Cain returns from his fishing trip, he can immediately sense something’s wrong. Soon Belle agrees to accept Cain and Kammy’s advice not to visit Tom, but spirals to think he’ll just seek her out when he’s released.
Before long Belle is grateful to talk to Rhona who has lived experience and helps Belle try and take control of her feelings. Belle seems more optimistic after her chat but privately Rhona warns Cain if Tom does come back, he could be more dangerous than ever. Kammy wants to protect Belle and makes a sudden declaration of love to Belle who runs off unable to cope or respond.
Tom made Belle’s life a nightmare in Emmerdale (Pictures: ITV)
Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said:
“James’ return isn’t just about bringing back a familiar face; it’s about reigniting a complex and challenging story. When Belle gets the news that Tom is up for parole she’s forced to confront a trauma she battled hard to overcome. With her family and new partner Kammy by her side, we explore the lasting impact of Tom’s abusive actions on Belle as she fights to keep Tom away from the village.”
Speaking ahead of his return, James Chase who plays Tom shared: ‘Stepping back into Tom’s shoes is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. He is a character driven by obsession and a desperate need for control, and it is both fascinating and challenging to step back into that mindset.’
‘The audience knows exactly who he is and what he is capable of, so the challenge now is to show the lengths he is willing to go to in order to get what he wants, even if it means dismantling Belle’s life all over again. It’s a dark path, and I’m ready to see how far Tom will push it.’
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