Emmerdale viewers baffled as soap airs unexpected exit ahead of Christmas

08 December 2023 , 20:05

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Emmerdale viewers baffled as soap airs unexpected exit ahead of Christmas

Emmerdale aired an emotional and sudden exit on Friday night's episode after a challenging few weeks for the character.

Soap watchers will recall that Kim Tate's horse was responsible for evil rapist Craig Reed's murder during the Dingle whodunnit last month and she worked with Cain Dingle to cover up details of the death. Earlier this week, Lydia Dingle, who had been raped by Craig and grilled her family about the latter's death, was stunned to learn the truth from Kim about how he died.

On Friday's episode, Lydia continued to struggle with the bombshell, feeling betrayed, and in a shock twist, she told her husband, Sam Dingle, that she was leaving the village and off to stay with her mother for a while. Sam was left devastated as he said: "You're leaving me?" but Lydia insisted that she wasn't and just needed space to work things out after a traumatic few months in the Yorkshire village.

Emmerdale aired an emotional and sudden exit on Friday night's episode after a challenging few weeks for the character (ITV)

Lydia admitted: "I just need to get away from everything before I fall to pieces", insisting she would keep in touch with plenty of calls. Samson Dingle was also left heartbroken to learn the news when he arrived home, especially that Lydia wouldn't be around for Christmas or New Year, although Sam insisted she was only leaving for a few weeks and not forever. The father and son then helped Lydia leave the village.

It remains to be seen when Lydia will return and viewers were quick to share their thoughts. Taking to Twitter, now X, one person said: "Lydia leaving for space again like she did last month when she needed some space. #emmerdale" while another confused soap watcher added: "So has Lydia gone for good? #emmerdale?!"

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A different account put: "Lydia's off again #Emmerdale" with a confused emoji, another viewer said: "Lydia leaving like that’s going to help. #Emmerdale!" while another soap watcher added: "Think Lydia needs to go but have a feeling we will see a completely different Lydia return much stronger not a walk over #Emmerdale!"

If you've been the victim of sexual assault, you can access help and resources via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or calling the national telephone helpline on 0808 802 9999.

Olivia Wheeler