Emmerdale star James Chase has described his current week of filming as the 'maddest' he has ever done, as his character Tom King's storyline intensifies following his return to the ITV soap.
Chase is reprising his role as Tom, who was sentenced in 2024 to three years in prison for physically and emotionally abusing Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper). Belle was recently told by a liaison officer that Tom would be released early, news she tried to put aside as she carried on with her life.
Cain's intervention backfires
Belle's uncle Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) became involved after Kammy Hadiq (Shebz Miah) found a wreath of dead flowers on the doorstep. Jumping to the conclusion that Tom had sent it, Cain went to the prison to warn him off, unaware that one of Belle's clients was responsible.
Cain then arranged for Samson Dingle (Sam Hall) to beat Tom up in the hope he would get the message. When Belle found out, she was furious, telling Cain he had made things ten times worse and deciding to visit Tom herself.
Tom's release plans
In the ward room, Belle was shocked when Tom revealed he intends to move to Northern Ireland after his release, saying he wants to focus on the future. Back home, she updated Cain and believed her nightmare would soon be over.
But as the episode ended, it became clear the drama was only beginning, with Tom seen in hospital looking deeply troubled. Sharing a selfie on his Instagram Stories, Chase teased the chaos ahead, saying: 'This is definitely the maddest week of filming I've ever done. Can't wait to see it!!'
Speculation over Tom's next move
With Tom's plans unknown, fans fear he could target Belle's new boyfriend Kammy, following scenes where the two met for the first time. Others speculate he may try to destroy Belle's life for putting him in prison, or focus on another family member.
Taylor-Draper previously told Metro she was excited to revisit the story, saying: 'To have the abuser released and getting to showcase that and all the different feelings and emotions, I was very excited to get going with the story.' She added that Belle, though believing she has healed, finds her wounds reopened, affecting her relationship with Kammy and her talks with the victim liaison officer.
