Emmerdale's Cain Dingle, played by Jeff Hordley, will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in upcoming heartbreaking scenes. The ITV soap will document every stage of the health battle, with Cain's decline beginning as he receives the diagnosis in episodes airing next week.
Cain, who has been played by Hordley, 55, for over two decades, learns he has an aggressive but localised form of the cancer after getting checked. He is left overwhelmed by the diagnosis and the potential side effects of the recommended treatment plan, cutting the consultation short and leaving the doctors.
The special episode dedicated to the storyline will focus on Cain's inner thoughts, telling the story from his perspective. Cain struggles to process the news, leading to mounting denial and anger that sees him clash with those around him. His health is not his only concern, as his wife Moira, played by Natalie J Robb, has just been charged with murder.
The episodes have been made in conjunction with Prostate Cancer UK, who helped the scriptwriters ensure authenticity and realism. Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: 'Cain instinctively felt like the right character to tell this story. He is a complex man that doesn’t normally talk about his feelings.'
Hordley added: 'I feel really honoured to be given this storyline. This is the first proper illness my character has been given and I want to play my part in making sure the audience can relate to the journey so many families unfortunately have to navigate.'
