DALES LOCKDOWN DRAMA!
Emmerdale gives us a peek into life in quarantine…
Great news, Dales fans – the soap is already back filming six brand-new episodes as part of a phased return to full production! With the show’s current three-nightly broadcast expected to run out soon – due to cast and crew being forced to down tools back in March – these new episodes will ensure that Emmerdale remains on air in June.
Of course, stories won’t be able to pick up directly where they leave off. Instead, we’ll jump to sets of our favourite villagers in lockdown themselves – as they use the time to reflect on their recent dramas…
“Resentments and past feuds resurface, old wounds are further exposed, relationships will be scrutinised, with doubts and insecurities laid bare,” explains an ITV spokesperson. “Some characters seize the chance that lockdown presents to heal divisions, while others get some sizzle back into their lives! With the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, the characters also reflect the nation’s immense gratitude and thanks for the NHS with the weekly clap for carers, and the people on the frontline keeping our country safe.” With a little help from our Dales insiders and This Morning presenter Sharon Marshall – who is also an Emmerdale writer – here’s a preview of the faces set to feature…
CAIN & AARON
“Cain had been using Aaron’s house as a base to conduct his dodgy dealings with Malone, while his nephew was away in Scotland,” our village spy reminds us. “Will Aaron have a few choice words for his uncle? And is he still battling demons of his own?”
SAM & LYDIA
“These are two newlywedsshwohnoa’shcarvi es just got married in the shhoewlp,”catne’at saevse Sharon. “This is the first instance of them spending a lot of time together!”
CHAS & PADDY
“For Chas and Paddy, trust needs to be restored,” says our mole. “Perhaps this is the perfect time for them to rebuild and concentrate on being a family with their daughter, Eve.”
MARLON, AL & ELLIS
“Al cheated with Marlon’s wife Jessie, and stole her from him!” Sharon reminds us. “So what’s that going to be like with all those tensions under one roof?”
JIMMY & NICOLA
“Jimmy and Nicola have always enjoyed a very passionate relationship – but with social-distancing measures in place on set, we won’t see them get up to their usual hanky-panky…” sniggers our source.
MANDY & VINNY
“Vinny’s dad Paul is worming his way back into his son’s life, and Mandy is terrified,” reckons our source. “Will she use the time to convince Vinny that Paul is bad news? And will he listen?
STAYING SAFE
The six episodes are in production with a scaled-back crew, to ensure safety protocols are adhered to on set – not unlike some of the methods being employed on Neighbours. Turn the page for our exclusive chat with Ramsay Street boss Jason Herbison for more. Meanwhile, congratulations on your fabulous work, Team Emmerdale!