Emmerdale has revealed the future of Joe Tate's newborn child as the struggling father declares his intention to pursue adoption. Recent episodes of the ITV programme have shown Joe in turmoil following the passing of his partner Dawn Taylor (Olivia Bromley), and he has distanced himself from their unnamed infant son.
Kim and Graham's appeals fail
Kim Tate (Claire King) and Graham Foster (Andrew Scarborough) have been determined to persuade Joe to reconsider and embrace fatherhood. However, their appeals have fallen on deaf ears as Joe remains adamant that raising Baby Tate single-handedly is beyond his capabilities.
On Wednesday (September 30), Graham made a desperate attempt to alter Joe's position, adopting a more forceful strategy with Joe, whom he regards as his own son. There was a showdown between Joe and Graham in Emmerdale.
Graham's final task
Attempting to tap into Joe's feelings and affection for Dawn, Graham showed him archived footage of Dawn, in which she is seen touching her growing belly and expressing her excitement about welcoming Joe's child, reports the Daily Star.
When Joe refused to engage with his son or show any reaction to Dawn's video message, Graham shifted tactics and declared, "Dawn deserved better than a spineless man". Joe responded by striking Graham across the face.
Subsequently, the pair travelled to the hospital to visit Baby Tate, and despite their previous confrontation, Graham maintained his affection and encouragement towards Joe, believing a turning point might be approaching. Yet it proved another unsuccessful attempt as Joe remained adamant that his son would enjoy a better life with adoptive parents, and declared the child would be placed for adoption, leaving Graham furious.
Joe subsequently instructed Graham to arrange Baby Tate's illegal adoption, including identifying suitable families. Graham cautioned Joe that should he assist him, it would mark the final favour he ever performed for him.
Viewers convinced Graham will keep the baby
In light of Graham's parting words, Emmerdale viewers are now convinced he will adopt Baby Tate himself, given he has been tasked with locating the youngster a new home.
Posting on Facebook, one viewer speculated: "Graham is only leaving for a short time; he doesn't take the baby to be adopted as Joe asked. He keeps him hoping Joe will realise that he's made a mistake, then Graham will come back to Emmerdale with the baby."
On Reddit, another urged: "Graham, please take the baby and find a Mrs. Graham and a nice cottage. And stick to your threat of it being the last task for Joe."
Another contributed: "He's moving out of Home Farm with the baby, given Joseph doesn't care about the baby, and that upsets", while one echoed the sentiment and posted: "I bet he's going to take the baby." Emmerdale airs weekdays on ITV and ITVX.
