Emmerdale has been hit with complaints over its harrowing assault storyline, with broadcasting watchdog Ofcom confirming it received 121 complaints from viewers about a recent episode.
The ITV soap aired scenes on Sunday, June 7, in which Dr Caitlin Todd, played by Caroline Harker, sexually assaulted Charity Dingle, portrayed by Emma Atkins. Viewers described the scenes as disturbing, chilling, and sickening.
Ofcom confirmed that the complaints specifically related to the doctor assaulting Charity. A spokesperson said the watchdog received 121 complaints about the episode.
Dark Turn in Blackmail Plot
Dr Todd had been blackmailing Charity for weeks over the true parentage of Leyla Sugden, demanding thousands of pounds. In Sunday's episode, Charity got drunk and accepted she would have to admit the truth. The doctor tried to kiss her, but Charity pulled away and fell asleep. She later woke up to find Dr Todd assaulting her.
Viewer Reactions
Several viewers found the scenes tough to watch. One person on X said they felt physically sick as the scene unfolded. Another wrote: "That scene with Doctor Todd doing that to Charity, then Charity realising what was happening at the end was pretty chilling. Certainly one of the most evil doctors in soapland!"
A third viewer said: "Very disturbing scene but very glad that Emmerdale made the decision for Charity to go straight to the police to report."
Another fan praised the performances: "Firstly, that was an outstanding performance from Emma Atkins and Caroline Harker - however, it was disturbing, uncomfortable and seriously sickening all at once. I was shaking, felt violently ill."
One viewer confessed: "I was horrified and felt traumatised by it."
Praise for Powerful Storyline
Despite the disturbing content, many fans praised the soap for highlighting an important issue. One viewer said: "So amazing and so so important." Another posted: "OMG that was horrific to watch, I didn't think it would be so graphic but it is such an important topic to cover! You very rarely see female on female SA covered on TV. Emma and Caroline are doing an amazing job even though it's horrific to watch!"
Emmerdale airs on ITV1 and ITVX. The rape and sexual abuse support line run by Rape Crisis England and Wales can be contacted on 0808 500 2222.
