Emmerdale spoilers follow. This article includes discussion of sexual assault, which some readers may find upsetting.
Emmerdale launched an emotional new storyline in Sunday’s episode (7 June) as Charity Dingle was sexually assaulted by evil Dr Caitlin Todd.
Show bosses announced the issue-based storyline earlier this week, promising to sensitively explore the aftermath of Charity’s ordeal in the weeks and months ahead.
Read on for all the details released so far about the story’s future.
What happens next to Charity?
ITV
When Emmerdale first revealed this storyline, the show confirmed that it will explore the devastating effects of sexual violence and the complex feelings of isolation that survivors can experience.
Over the next few weeks, Charity will struggle to come to terms with her attack and must choose between confiding in her loved ones, or internalising the trauma she feels. This seems to suggest that she won’t reach out to the Dingles straight away.
The situation is also likely to be complicated by the fact that Charity is still keeping quiet about the baby secret involving Leyla and fears it could be exposed by Dr Todd, who has been blackmailing her in recent weeks.
What has Emma Atkins, who plays Charity, said about the storyline?
ITV
In a recent press statement, Emma Atkins commented: “This has been one of the most demanding and significant storylines I’ve had to navigate as Charity. We know her as a tough, resilient character, but this trauma will expose a deep, raw vulnerability that has been heartbreaking at times to play.
“I hope this storyline gives even one person the courage to speak out or helps others understand the quiet devastation of trauma.”
What have Emmerdale bosses said about the storyline?
ITV
Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper recently spoke about the story’s arc in more detail.
“Charity’s storyline will explore the impact of sexual violence, and though this heinous act is fundamentally about power, we’ll explore the complexities of how Charity processes her trauma when the perpetrator is a woman,” Roper said.
“With little conversation surrounding female-on-female assault, we’ll explore the overwhelming feelings of isolation many survivors experience and will examine the disparity between the legal term sexual assault and the fact that many women in Charity’s position feel this minimises what’s happened to them, because they feel like they’ve been raped.
“Though difficult viewing at times, Charity’s resilience will inspire hope as she confronts what has happened to her.”
Is Dr Todd leaving Emmerdale?
ITV
Earlier this week, tabloid reports suggested that Caroline Harker – who plays Dr Todd – is leaving Emmerdale at the conclusion of this storyline.
No official statement has been released from Caroline or Emmerdale to confirm this yet, although the reports were no real surprise – the nature of the storyline makes it impossible for the villainous character to stick around in the long term.
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
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