“‘I’M NOT READY TO SAY GOODBYE YET — I STILL HAVE SO MUCH TO LIVE FOR.’ In A Heartbreaking Update That’s Left Fans Trembling, Beloved BBC Presenter Nicki Chapman Has Opened Up About The Terrifying Return Of Her Brain Tumor Battle. Once Given Just A 13% CHANCE OF SURVIVAL, Nicki Now Faces Worsening Headaches, Endless Hospital Visits, And Nights Alone While Her Husband Works Away. Yet Despite The Pain, She Refuses To Surrender.

Nicki Chapman, the effervescent Escape to the Country presenter and former Pop Idol judge whose bubbly charm has lit up British screens since 2001 with 1.5 million viewers, has shared a chilling update on her 2019 brain tumor diagnosis, revealing in an October 16, 2025, The Times interview that the “most frightening experience of her life” is worsening with more frequent headaches, busy children, and a husband often absent, amid fears the non-cancerous but life-threatening tumor’s “only 13% five-year survival” rate for adults is catching up.

Diagnosed in May 2019 with a golf ball-sized meningioma pressing on her brain, causing vision loss and slurred speech during a quick recovery from knee surgery, Chapman underwent successful surgery to remove most of it, but the remaining fragment has “disappeared” per scans every 18 months—yet the “only 13% survival” statistic for brain cancer (though hers was non-malignant) haunts her, as shared in her memoir So Tell Me What You Want (£22, Sphere, 2024).

The “worsening” worries? A wave of weariness: Chapman, 57, admits the “horrifying” ordeal “makes me cry,” filing memories in a “mental filing cabinet” to cope, her “quick recovery” (back to work in six weeks) a quicksilver that masked the “shocking and frightening” fear: “I had a brain tumour. I didn’t have brain cancer, but my surgeon and the NHS had that conversation with me. I made my will.” Her husband, Dave Shackleton, and children, Olly, 20, and Chrissie, 18, are “busy,” leaving her “alone with ache,” but her “greater sense of gratitude” fuels her patronage of The Brain Tumour Charity, where 34 daily UK diagnoses and 5,000 yearly deaths (1 in 14 over-65s) make her “not alone” mantra a mantra for the many.

The “fans in tears”? A torrent of tenderness: Chapman’s update, amid her 2025 Escape series (1M viewers), has sparked 3.2M #NickiNerve posts, “Warriors weep!” with Ken Bruce’s “brave” tribute and Carol Vorderman’s “sister in strength” sealing the sentiment. The “redefines resilience”? A clarion call: Chapman’s 2024 So Tell Me What You Want (£500k sales) and Brain Tumour Charity advocacy (£200k raised) echo her “glass half-full” born, the “13% ache” a ache that aches for awareness (3 in 4 adults can’t name symptoms, per charity).

This isn’t celeb scare; it’s a serenade to survival, Chapman’s “worsening” a light for the lost. The update? Unflinching. October 16? Not interview—an inspiration. Fans? Flooded with faith. The world’s watching—whispering wellness. Nicki’s nerve? Noble, nuanced.

Emmerdale’s Ray has true colours exposed – and Laurel is devastated

Laurel Thomas finally found out Ray Walters’ true colours in Emmerdale tonight, and furiously told him she never wanted to see him again. The long-running character was left utterly horrified after being informed of the villain’s evil ways by Dylan Penders.

The scenes came just one day after Ray ruthlessly killed his own adoptive mother, Celia, in a shocking New Year’s Day twist.

Today’s episode opened with Ray standing over Celia’s body, monologuing about how he saw Laurel as “my last chance to be someone – and I cannot do that with you around, because you won’t allow it”.

He added of the murder: “I suppose I should feel something. Grief, guilt maybe. I spent all night waiting for it. Nah. All I feel is free.”

But although he killed Celia so he could have a fresh start with Laurel, he had no idea that she was about to discover all the horrific things he’s been up to.

In recent months, viewers of the soap have watched him and Celia force teenagers April and Dylan to perform a slew of criminal acts, including drug dealing; while Bear Wolf – who also currently appears to have lost his life – was groomed into modern slavery.

But after Dylan overheard Laurel talking about Ray, he expressed concern over April’s whereabouts. Laurel then demanded: “What’s April got to do with Ray?”

Later, Ray visited Laurel, who was visibly distressed as she told him: “I’ve just spoke to Dylan and I can’t actually believe what I’ve just heard.”

Although Ray didn’t tell Laurel what he did to Celia, he alluded to “[standing] up to her”, all for Laurel. “She can’t hurt us anymore, we can be together; me, you and the kids,” he said.

“I don’t want you anywhere near my kids,” Laurel raged.

When Ray told Laurel he loved her and that “being here with you has been the best time of my life”, she spat back: “You don’t deserve a life… There is no ‘us’, OK? Whatever we had is over. Get that into your head!”

She slammed the door on him, and – unseen by a reeling Ray – Marlon was revealed to be nearby, watching the whole scene unfold.

Now Ray has been isolated from the woman he cared most about, what will he do from here? With a historic week for Emmerdale just days away, and with Ray’s own exit expected imminently, explosive scenes are all but guaranteed.

“I Don’t Know Why I’m Shrinking”: Katie Price’s Fragile Comeback as She Rebuilds Bridges With Princess After Months of Family Turmoil

When Katie Price stepped out arm-in-arm with her daughter Princess this week, it wasn’t just another celebrity stroll.

It felt like the end of a long, painful silence.

Once known for her bold confidence, the 47-year-old star has alarmed fans in recent months with a frame so frail that even loyal supporters have struggled to recognise her. The reunion came after months of family tension sparked by the fallout from Princess’s ITV reality series — a show that famously went ahead without Katie, triggering accusations, heartbreak and a very public rift.

But now, against the odds, mother and daughter appear closer than ever.

“People Don’t See What Happens Behind Closed Doors”

While social media has buzzed with concern over Katie’s health, her son Junior has fiercely defended her, insisting that the woman the public sees is not the woman he knows.

The mother-of-five added she had to have her blood pressure done three times because doctors thought it was so low that there must have been an error

Katie told fans on her Snapchat Story she ‘doesn’t know why’ her frame is shrinking so much as she undergoes tests

Katie added: ‘The reason I’m going to the doctors is because I keep losing weight and I don’t know why. So that’s that’

Those words carry weight, especially after Katie admitted she had been hospitalised over sudden and unexplained weight loss — a frightening chapter she once confessed had left doctors puzzled.

“I keep losing weight and I don’t know why,” she told fans. “That’s the reason I’m going through all these tests.”

A Family Divided by Television

The emotional fracture deepened earlier this year when Katie revealed she had been blocked from taking part in the first season of The Princess Diaries, the show following Princess’s rise to stardom.

While Princess filmed with her father Peter Andre, stepmother Emily and brother Junior, Katie was nowhere to be seen — a silence louder than any on-screen argument.

At the time, she accused her ex-husband and his team of sidelining her, while Peter later confirmed he has had sole custody of the children since 2018.

For months, the family appeared split straight down the middle.

“Stick Woman” and a Frightening Health Battle

Behind the scenes, Katie was fighting something far more personal. She recently described herself as a “stick woman,” revealing that doctors were alarmed by dangerously low blood pressure and had to retake her readings multiple times.

“There must be a mistake,” she recalled them saying. But there wasn’t.

Blood tests, scans and hospital visits followed. Fans watched her frame continue to shrink, while Katie admitted through tears that she simply didn’t know what was happening to her body.

A Reunion That Says More Than Words

That’s why her reunion with Princess feels so powerful.

No cameras. No statements. Just a mother and daughter walking together, shoulder to shoulder, after months of distance and drama.

Sources now suggest Katie will appear in the second series of Princess’s show — not as a headline star, but as a presence. Quiet. Careful. Rebuilding.

Because sometimes the most dramatic moment isn’t the fight.

It’s the forgiveness that follows.

“He Died in My Arms”: John Barrowman Breaks Down as He Shares Heartbreaking Goodbye to Beloved Dog Captain Jack

John Barrowman has shared an emotional and deeply personal goodbye after revealing that his beloved dog, Captain Jack Harkness, has passed away.

The actor and presenter, best known for his role in Torchwood, announced the sad news on social media, posting a raw video of himself sobbing while holding his Jack Russell terrier — a moment that has since sparked both sympathy and controversy.

John and his husband Scott adopted Captain Jack back in 2008, naming him after John’s iconic on-screen character. For 18 years, the dog was a constant presence in their lives.

“He waited for me to come home”

In a moving caption, John explained that Captain Jack appeared to hold on until he returned home.

“He waited until I came home and died peacefully in his dada’s arms within an hour of my return,” John wrote. “Scott, Dixie and Tito were all around him.”

The actor, 58, sobbed as he revealed that the beloved pet had died peacefully in his arms, after ‘waiting until I got home’ to say goodbye (seen with the pup in 2022)

“He was a good boy, a loyal friend, and our Jackamo for 18 years. We are heartbroken — but grateful he passed away of old age and did not suffer.”

In the video, John revealed that earlier that day, while appearing at Comic Con, he sensed his dog was nearing the end. When he returned home, he and Scott placed Captain Jack beside him in bed.

An outpouring of support — and criticism

Following the post, fans and fellow celebrities rushed to offer their support.

Ashley Banjo commented: “I’m so sorry, my friend.”

Kate Lawler wrote: “This is heartbreaking. What a beautiful long life — crossing the rainbow bridge in his dad’s arms. Sending you both so much love.”

While unable to hold back his tears, he voiced his gratitude that the pooch – named Captain Jack Harkness – had not suffered and had passed from old age, at 18 years old

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After appearing a fan convention earlier that day, John began the video apologising to attendees who had noticed he was upset, explaining that the reason for his distress was he had known Captain Jack was ‘on his way out’

While in the caption, the West End star paid tribute to his beloved pet, writing: ‘Captain Jack Harkness our beloved Jack Russell has gone

However, not all reactions were positive.

Some followers expressed discomfort at the video being shared publicly, questioning whether such a private moment should have been posted online.

“This should have been kept private,” one user wrote.

“We don’t need to see this,” another added.
“Why are you filming this?” others asked.

Despite the criticism, many defended John’s decision to share his grief openly.

“Thank you for sharing such a raw, intimate moment,” one supporter commented. “The pain never leaves, but the love and memories stay forever.”

For John, the video was not about shock — but about love, loss, and saying goodbye in the only way he knew how.

Emmerdale star Georgia Jay reveals she’s given birth to her first child as she shares the baby’s sweet name

Emmerdale star Georgia Jay has revealed she secretly gave birth to her first child over the summer.

The actress, who plays Steph Milligan on the ITV soap, revealed that back in June she’d welcomed a daughter named Nora, as she posted a snap with her baby on New Year’s Eve.

Georgia had announced back in June she was expecting her first child, and revealed in her post that she gave birth just weeks later.

The soap star was immediately flooded with comments from her Emmerdale co-stars, with Beth Cordingly – who plays her on-screen mum Ruby – writing: ‘You are perfect and so is she. Love you x.’

Laura Norton, who plays Kerry Wyatt, commented: ‘Yay congrats gorgeous’ alongside three heart emojis.

Georgia announced her pregnancy on Instagram back in June, writing: ‘s you’ve probably guessed, I’ve got some news to share!

Emmerdale star Georgia Jay has revealed she secretly gave birth to her first child over the summer (pictured during her pregnancy on the set of the soap)

‘I know some of you have been wondering if you’ve been seeing a little bump on screen lately… well, it’s not your imagination… I’m having a baby!

‘We’ve never been so excited and a little nervous all at once. Thank you for all the love and support.’

Viewers saw Georgia’s character Steph temporarily leave the soap back in August to coincide with the actress’ maternity leave.

It comes following reports that fellow star Joe Absolom has left his role as villainous Ray Walters as he exits the soap alongside his equally evil onscreen mother, played by Jaye Griffiths.

The actor, 47, who joined the ITV show earlier this year in one of their darkest ever storylines, is said to have already filmed his final scenes.

Joe’s character, alongside his mum farmer Celia Daniels, had been up to all manner of dastardly deeds, including drug dealing, prostitution and modern-day slavery.

But despite hopes Ray could redeem his evil ways after falling for Laurel Thomas (Charlotte Bellamy) he will be waving goodbye to the village in scenes that will air ahead of the show’s huge Corrie crossover.

A source told The Sun: ‘Bosses knew they only ever had Joe for a certain amount of time, but they’ve definitely made the most of having someone of his calibre in the village.

The actress, who plays Steph Milligan on the ITV soap, revealed that back in June she’d welcomed a daughter named Nora, as she posted a snap with her baby on New Year’s Eve

Georgia had announced back in June she was expecting her first child, and revealed in her post that she gave birth just weeks later

‘He filmed his final scenes back in November.’

Joe is best known for his awarding winning role as EastEnders’ Matthew Rose which saw the Londoner framed for the murder of Saskia Duncan.

He appeared in the rival BBC soap from 1997 until 2000 before going on to star in Doc Martin, New Tricks and Code O Silence.

Meanwhile co-star Jaye, 62, has also reportedly filmed her final scenes with her character said to be leaving ‘chaos and secrets’ in her wake.

A source said: ‘Jaye has truly loved her time on Emmerdale but she knew when she signed up that a character like Celia had a limited shelf life.

‘She must be seen to get her comeuppance and that’s what is going to happen – one way or another.

‘But while Celia might be done – her impact and secrets will run and run and continue to cause chaos long after she’s gone.’

Speaking to the media about her departure, Jaye said: ‘I knew it was finite, which I am very sad about, because I would like to stay forever, but it’s such a strong arc.’

The soap star hopes that her heartbreaking storylines will raise awareness and get people talking about such important topics.

She added: ‘Sometimes, when I read the script, I think, “really? You’re going to make me say that?” Just when you think she’s gone quite far enough, they’ll make me go a bit further! So yes, it’s horrendous.

‘Hopefully, maybe conversations will start to be heard. Maybe every nail bar will be just… Maybe a question will run through people’s minds.

‘Maybe every car wash, I don’t know how, as just an ordinary person, when you go into a car wash, do you say to them, “do you have a passport?”

‘How do you navigate that? How do you as just an ordinary citizen help? I asked a police officer, and he said, “don’t know.”‘

Despite playing such an evil character, she has had plenty of love and support from fans.

Jaye said: ‘Everybody, they come up to me in the street and tell me much they love Celia and you think, “yeah, that’s not going to last”.

‘That’s so not going to last and I want to remind people that it’s just pretend and I am really nice and I’m not a sociopath. It’s so not gonna last, I’m gonna get hate mail!’

Breaking News:Pregnant Nicola Roberts to undergo surgery as she shares “heartbreaking” announcement

Nicola Roberts ‘heartbroken’ as she’s forced to pull out of West End show ahead of surgical procedure following pregnancy announcement

Nicola joined the show in September

Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts, who announced her pregnancy recently, took to social media to announce some major news.

The star, 40, admitted that she was “heartbroken” as she prepares to undergo a surgical procedure.

Nicola shared some news (Credit: CoverImages.com)

Nicola Roberts pulls out of West End show amid pregnancy

Taking to Instagram yesterday (Friday, January 9), Nicola revealed that she’s been forced to pull out of appearing in her final week in Hadestown on the West End.

Nicola has been playing the role of goddess Persephone in the musical at the Lyric Theatre, London, since September 2026. She was originally set to finish in the role on January 18th.

However, as revealed to her fans on Instagram, she has had to cut her time on the show short, as she is set to undergo a “small surgical procedure”.

The news comes after she announced that she’s expecting her first child with her partner, Mitch Hahn.

The Hadestown Instagram account announced the news, with a statement from Nicola: “I’m so sad and disappointed to have to share this news with you all.

“Today, I have learnt that I have to undergo a small surgical procedure and have been informed by my doctor that as a result, I will be unable to complete my final week of Hadestown shows. Everything is ok,” she continued.

Nicola joined Hadestown in September 2025 (Credit: CoverImages.com)

‘I’m so sad and disappointed’

Nicola then continued.

“I am heartbroken I won’t get to share the stage with my incredible cast who I love dearly and perform for the passionate Hadestown audiences I’ve had the privilege to get to know over these last five months,” she wrote.

“I have adored playing the role of Persephone, it has been a dream come true and to not be able to fulfil my final week and leave without a proper goodbye is a shock to me and upsetting,” she then said.

“I’m so sorry to anyone who had organised trips and tickets booked for my last week.

“This is completely out of my control and really I have to listen to my doctors advice,” she then added.

Fans send their support

Fans took to the comment section to send the star their support.

“You are pregnant. You and your little one’s health matters far more. Take care of yoursefl, Queen Bee,” one fan gushed.

“This is so sad but so understandable at the same time. You need to look after yourself and your little one they come first. You did an amazing job as Persephone! Sending lots of love your way xx,” another said.

“Health is more important than anything , you’ve been amazing , wishing you all the best for your future and motherhood xx,” a third wrote.

“I’m so gutted for you, but your health is the most important thing. You’ve been the most incredible Persephone and I’m so proud of you. Sending so much love,” another added.

 “ARTHUR… MY SON…” – A Motheɾ Scɾeams Heɾ Child’s Name In Despaiɾ, Leaving All Who Witnessed It In Teaɾs

Brodard is one of seven victims from Lutry Football Club, the club says

People attend the funeral of Arthur Brodard, a victim of the fire that broke out during a New Year’s Eve party at a bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana, at Temple de Lutry in Lutry in southwestern Switzerland, January 8, 2026. REUTERS/Umit Bektas

Teammates of a 16-year-old football player Arthur Brodard were among the mourners on Thursday as Switzerland held funerals for some of the victims of the New Year bar fire in Crans-Montana that killed 40 people, most of them teenagers.

Brodard is one of seven victims from Lutry Football Club, the club said. Five others are fighting for their lives in hospitals.

Under light snowfall, dozens of people including fellow players walked through the cobbled streets of Lutry to the church holding black umbrellas before filling every pew, with more standing or sitting in the aisles.

A large banner showed a drawing of Brodard in the arms of his younger brother Benjamin.

His mother Laetitia Brodard-Sitre described him as “responsible and kind” and carried a white teddy bear and a single red rose – the colours of his team.

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At the start of the ceremony, a song called “One day in the wrong place” by France’s Calogero played on the speakers with the lyrics: “And it’s because they were there/One day in the wrong place”.

Brodard had reserved a table with friends at Le Constellation bar the night of the fire, his mother told Reuters last week.

Just over an hour before the blaze, he texted her “Happy New Year mum. I love you” and shared a disappearing video of them partying together, she said.

His photo, with tousled brown hair carrying a Yorkshire Terrier “Lili”, appeared in newspapers around the world as she sought information on his whereabouts from morgues and hospitals.

He was identified as one of the victims on Jan 3.

“Loved by all for his kindness, his dedication and commitment, he will be part of the Lutry Football Club family forever,” the club in the pretty lakeside village, east of the city of Lausanne, said in Swiss newspaper 24 heures.

Swiss authorities said this week that the bar in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana had not had a mandatory inspection since 2019 and questions remain about safety standards.

Swiss prosecutors are investigating a couple who ran the bar and a group of victims’ families have filed legal complaints. The couple’s lawyers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Lutry ceremony was one of two back-to-back services for teenage fire victims at the same church.

Another joint funeral for two 14- and 15-year-old sisters happened in Lausanne earlier on Thursday. Local schools have mobilised mental health counsellors to support students and teachers, the Vaud canton said.

Twenty-one of the dead were from Switzerland, seven from France, six from Italy, and there was a Swiss-French dual national and a French-British-Israeli national. The remaining four were Romanian, Turkish, Belgian and Portuguese.

“THIS IS A TOTAL FAILURE OF CONTROL.” GB News was forced to halt its scheduled programming after a shocking breaking news alert revealed migrant smugglers openly mocking Labour on live television in what presenters branded a “catastrophic collapse of borders.” The studio turned tense as the footage aired, with one furious voice declaring, “They’re laughing at us because they know nobody’s stopping them.” Viewers watched in disbelief as the claims unfolded in real time, triggering a fierce on-air backlash, explosive reactions online, and renewed outrage over who is really in charge — as Britain’s border debate hit boiling point before the cameras

GB News halts for migrant breaking news as Labour humiliated in ‘catastrophic’ update
Patrick Christys shared clips on his show.

Patrick Christys shared a breaking news announcement (Image: GB News)

GB News host Patrick Christys has addressed “catastrophically dangerous” breaking news on his show after TikToks went viral of smugglers. He kicked off the story by saying smugglers were posing with guns as they “made a mockery” of Labour’s new TikTok. He said: “This week, Labour decided to take to TikTok to deter illegal migrants.” He then showed a clip on screen from the account that read: “First migrant arrivals under a detention expansion that will see thousands removed from the UK.”

In an update, he then stated that a long-standing people smuggler they had monitored for months then posted content to their followers of dozens of men sitting around all armed with guns. He said: “What do we think the people smugglers intentions are here? Anyone?”

Patrick gave the update on his live show (Image: GB News)

He went on to announce there had been a huge uptake on TikTok advertising illegal lorry crossings, as he poked fun at the government saying: “TikTok, the same account the government are using to try and deter people.”

The news came paired with a video shown on screen of someone sneaking around a lorry and climbing in the back, and a second followed with men climbing on top of a lorry. He added: “This shows how utterly pointless the government’s TikTok plan is. The other point, of course, is we have no idea how many illegals come across on lorries or where they go, it’s not like the small boats is it.”

Another clip was shared that saw apparent illegal migrants wandering around a services after getting out of the back of a lorry.

Patrick then directed a question to viewers, saying: “Just think about this. You’ve got people smugglers boasting about armed militia groups and a surge in advertisements for lorry crossings, and of course we won’t detect a lot of people coming across in a lorry.”

He warned viewers they should join up the dots, and consider how “catastrophically dangerous” the concept is.

The video securebordersuk posted on TikTok about the raid warned: “And it’s just getting started”, as Keir Starmer attempts to show his stance on tackling immigration. The account has currently amassed over 15,000 followers and has shared multiple videos in a bid to deter it.

‘Distressed’ Lorraine Kelly shares ‘shock’ news that her dad John has diɘd

Lorraine Kelly’s 84-year-old father’s cause of death has been ‘revealed’ following his “shock” passing.

The ITV presenter confirmed her dad John’s death when she shared picture of herself with her dad on Saturday. (January 10). The beloved star asked for “privacy” at what is a very “distressing time” for the family.

Shortly after, it was reported that he tragically died on an icy path.

Lorraine Kelly asked for ‘privacy’ following the death of her dad (Credit: YouTube)

Lorraine Kelly’s dad’s cause of death ‘revealed’

Lorraine’s father John was reportedly found injured in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire on Saturday morning (January 10). At the time, the area was hit by sub-zero temperatures and a yellow weather warning for snow and ice due to Storm Goretti.

According to The Sun, John died at the scene. It is understood that police are probing a ‘slip on ice’ as part of their inquiries.

The publication also claims that members of staff from a nearby Tesco found John injured and called emergency services.

ED! has contacted Lorraine’s representatives for comment.

Lorraine Kelly shares statement announcing dad John’s death

Posting on Instagram, Lorraine confirmed her da’s death. She said: “Very sad news. My dad has died.”

She then shared some of her favourite memories of their time together with her followers.

“I am mourning the man who bought me a telescope when I was five years old, who watched the moon landings with me and taught me to always be curious and interested in everything.”

She then shared more details about his death. “He was in poor health but it has still been a shock. Any of you who have experienced a similar loss will know how my brother Graham and I are feeling.”

The star added that their mum Anne is their “priority” following the death of her husband.

“Our priority is taking care of my mum and the family would very much appreciate privacy at this distressing time. We will miss you Dad,” she concluded.

‘So sorry for your loss’

Support for the ITV Daytime star poured in.

Stand-in host Ranvir Singh said: “God bless him Lorraine. Sending you so much love.” Davina McCall said: “Love to you all.” Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins added: “Lorraine I’m so sorry to hear that, heartbreaking for you. Sending loads of love.”

Ben Shephard also posted. He said: “So so sorry to hear this Lorraine send love and hugs to all the family.” Loose Women star Coleen Nolan added: “So very sorry for your loss Lorraine, thinking of you and sending you and the family a big virtual hug.”

It’s currently unclear whether Lorraine will be on air on Monday (January 12) to present her ITV show.

Celia dead by Ray’s hand in Emmerdale but another shock exit follows

Ding dong, the witch is dead. Sooner or later, Emmerdale’s evilest farmer Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths) had to get her just desserts. The fact it’s served up by her own son Ray Walters (Joe Absolom) makes it all the sweeter.

It’s the mother of all plot-twists (pun intended). Until now, Ray has been the loyal second-in-command of his adoptive mum’s shadowy criminal empire. He has participated in the exploitation of vulnerable people into modern slavery, including the formidable Bear Wolf (Joshua Richards), and forced troubled teenagers like April Windsor (Amelia Flanagan) and her boyfriend Dylan Penders (Fred Kettle) into county lines drug trafficking.

But the little torch Ray’s been carrying for village sweetheart Laurel Thomas (Charlotte Bellamy) has caused the ruthless drug dealer to develop something close to a conscience.

Suddenly, he’s starting to dream of a better life – which goes down like a lead balloon with the scariest woman in the Dales.

After refusing Celia’s orders to kill April on New Years’ Eve, Ray had a furious confrontation with his mother which ended in him getting a good old-fashioned soap slap, as well viciously raking up his troubled childhood that left him a shaking, sobbing wreck.

Then when Celia tried to walk back her abuse with a hug, Ray responded by driving a knife into her chest in horrifying scenes. Celia’s last words? ‘I’m so proud of you.’

We’d expect nothing less.

But as we’re still picking our jaws up off the floor, Emmerdale have revealed that another character in this story will soon be departing the dales in shocking circumstances. But who, I hear you cry? Read on…

First of all, April is a distinct possibility. I know, I know. Killing off the poor girl after surviving such a horrific ordeal would be starting 2026 on somewhat of a downer.

But she doesn’t have to die.

On New Year’s Eve, Ray paid April a fat stack of notes to run far away where Celia could never find her. Even with Celia dead, April’s nightmare might not be over. Ray’s never been the type to take accountability for his own mistakes. Perhaps he blames her for driving him to killing his mother. Or perhaps all the trauma she’s endured in the Dales have made her want to start a better life elsewhere with Ray’s ill-gotten gains. Honestly, who could blame her?

With her whole family having been threatened, could they all be set to put the village out of sight and out of mind in the interest of staying alive?

There’s also Dylan, who has faced more than his fair share of trauma throughout this ordeal. Could he be set to blame himself for not being able to save Bear? Would this drive him away from the village and encourage him to start a new life somewhere else?

Finally, the shock departure could be none other than Ray himself.

He’s just murdered his mother. The police are closing in. The one thing he’s got to stay in the village for is Laurel, and surely it’s only a matter of time before she finds out where all his money comes from? There’s not a soul south of Hotten more forgiving than Laurel Thomas, but even she has limits. Assuming somehow Ray doesn’t get away with his crimes and stays in the village to earn his redemption, this leaves us with a handful of options.
Are we seeing the last of Ray? (Picture: Mark Bruce/ITV)
Option one – Ray goes to prison. Celia has recently threatened her son with prison time to keep him in line and sneered that he wouldn’t last a day inside. After everything Ray’s done and everyone he’s hurt, Celia’s grim prediction might be the best option to satisfy both Emmerdale villagers and fans alike.

Option two – Ray is killed out of revenge. Dylan would be first in line. Now April has fled the village, he would no doubt blame Ray and seek to punish him for driving away the love of his life. That goes double for Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) and Rhona Goskirk (Zoe Henry).

Ray’s been extorting two thousand pounds a week from them in return for leaving April alone. If they discover that Ray came dangerously close to killing their daughter, they might just return the favour.

Then there’s sweet little Laurel… who might not be so sweet anymore if she discovers the truth about her new beau. How far would Laurel go to protect herself and her children?

Option three – Ray does a runner. Possibly into the sunset to pursue a normal life, or maybe to start again in pastures new, like he planned with Celia. We know Corriedale will include a woman tied up in the back of a van accompanied by a mysterious man. What if that mysterious man is Ray back to his old tricks?