Emmerdale fans are predicting that DS Thea Ramsden could embark on a new village romance with Joe Tate, who is Kim Tate's step-grandson. The speculation comes as Thea, played by Chelsea Edge, continues to settle into life in the Dales.
Thea's arrival and family secret
Thea made her debut on the ITV soap earlier this year as the police officer investigating the death of Dr Caitlin Todd. She was also revealed to have a connection to fellow newcomer Serena.
In a major twist, it was confirmed that Thea is the long-lost daughter of Kim Tate, who abandoned her in the 1980s. Seeking revenge, Thea set out to take down Kim, leading to a dramatic showdown in which Kim accidentally stabbed Thea. Thea was rushed to hospital and did not tell police that Kim was responsible.
Building a bond with Kim
Since then, Kim has worked to win Thea's trust, and the pair have started to build a bond. In Tuesday's episode, Kim invited Thea to spend time together, but Thea was hurt when Kim hesitated to tell Mary Goskirk about their relationship.
After Thea left, Mary suggested Kim reach out to her. While waiting for Thea's response, Kim confided in Charity Dingle, who was shocked to learn Thea is her daughter. Charity urged Kim to persevere and later told Thea about the conversation, giving Thea food for thought.
Romance predictions
On an Emmerdale Facebook fan page, viewers have predicted that Thea could start dating Joe Tate. One person wrote: "Thea and Joe are probably going to get together." Another added: "I think that as well." A third commented: "Wouldn't that be weird for Kim!"
Joe was left heartbroken earlier this year after Dawn Taylor died from a massive post-childbirth haemorrhage that led to a cardiac arrest. Prior to that, Joe and Dawn were involved in the catastrophic car crash on their wedding day, when Jimmy King crashed his car into their wedding marquee.
Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
