Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw has hinted at a dramatic Christmas twist involving the coercive control storyline between Tom King and Belle Dingle. Fans of the ITV soap can expect to see Tom’s sinister behavior escalate, leading to a potential Christmas exit for the character.

Shaw revealed that the ongoing storyline, featuring Tom’s increasing control and violence towards Belle, will continue for several months. As Tom uncovers Belle’s abortion secret in upcoming episodes, his abusive actions are set to intensify. Shaw confirmed that this storyline will not wrap up quickly, but instead will develop over a long period.

Actor James Chase, who plays Tom, has suggested that his character’s downfall is inevitable, hinting that Tom will eventually be exposed and face consequences. Shaw’s comments further imply that the climax of this plot could coincide with the festive season, potentially making it one of the major Christmas storylines for the soap.

Shaw told The Mirror and other press, “We wanted to tell the story as truthfully and authentically as we can. This isn’t something that is over in a couple of weeks; it goes on for a long time.” She indicated that viewers could expect the storyline to continue until the end of the year, suggesting that Tom’s behavior might be exposed around Christmas.

This timing implies that Tom’s exit could be tied to the festive period, possibly featuring dark and intense scenes involving him and Belle. Shaw’s remarks about the storyline running until the end of the year hint that Tom could remain on screen until then, with his exit or a significant plot development occurring during the holiday season.

James Chase emphasized the importance of Tom facing justice, stating, “I think it has to happen because it’s what he deserves. He can’t get away with it. Belle needs justice for what’s happened to her, and the audience needs that. We have to see her win in the end, or for him to lose.”