Emmerdale has unveiled the chilling plans of villain Tom King for the beloved dog Piper – and it’s “horrifying.”
The character, played by James Chase, has been left in a state of shock after his wife Belle Dingle, portrayed by Eden Taylor-Draper, ended their marriage. As viewers will remember, Tom has been manipulating, gaslighting, and lying to Belle for several months.
However, after a dramatic trip to Wales, Belle finally broke free and declared their marriage over. Since then, Tom has moved in with the Kings, who are blissfully unaware of his true nature.
Meanwhile, Belle has returned to Dale Head after Tom told her he had changed the locks. However, he neglected to tell her that he also had a key made for himself and has since installed cameras inside her house.
(Image: (Image: ITV))
But in Friday’s episode (August 16), his behaviour takes a dark turn when it becomes clear that he intends to harm pet dog Piper, reports the Express. In distressing scenes, Tom is seen deliberately revving his car towards the beloved animal.
Discussing Tom’s sinister plan, actor James explained: “Tom is well aware of the control he can exert by using his dog in his abuse of Belle.”
(Image: (Image: ITV))
“This deliberate act, although horrifying, is Tom’s way of getting back in Belle’s life. He knows her reaction to Piper being injured will mean he can then be the one to comfort her and get close to her again. It’s a desperate act, but Tom is clutching at anything at this time.”
The Emmerdale team have been working closely with the charities Refuge and The Dogs Trust regarding the storyline. Emmerdale Producer Laura Shaw explained: “Working with the charities and hearing first hand stories from domestic abuse survivors it’s clearly all too common that domestic abusers will use the family pet as a weapon.”
(Image: (Image: ITV))
Shaw added: “In upcoming scenes Viewers will see Tom go to desperate measures to try and keep control of his imploding marriage to Belle, which puts Piper in great jeopardy. Could this terrible act be the motivation that finally urges Belle to report her husband as an abuser?”
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm
Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
