Emmerdale is set to air a groundbreaking episode next Thursday, September 5, which will delve into Belle and Tom King’s harrowing story of coercive control through a format-breaking alternate realities plot. This special episode will offer viewers a surreal look at Belle’s potential futures following her decision to leave her abusive husband, Tom.

In this unique installment, Belle is confronted with three possible scenarios of her life after Tom’s warning that he will never truly let her go. As she experiences a dreamlike sequence of events, viewers will witness various potential outcomes for her future. These visions force Belle to confront the dark ramifications of her ongoing abusive relationship and the reasons behind her secrecy about Tom’s emotional and physical abuse.

The episode, which is crafted with input from the domestic violence charity Refuge, is penned by Tony Higgins and directed by Tim Oma. It aims to explore Belle’s deepest fears and the severe impact Tom’s abuse has had on her life. Emmerdale producer Sophi Roer emphasized that if this episode prompts even one person to seek help from their situation, it will have achieved its goal. Domestic abuse often remains hidden from the outside world, and the hope is that Belle’s story—though difficult to watch—will shed light on the realities of such abuse.

Charity Dingle has previously offered Belle support, making herself available to listen whenever Belle was ready to talk. Could this be the moment Belle finally opens up about the extent of her suffering? Eden Taylor-Draper, who portrays Belle, has expressed that filming this episode was a deeply moving experience. She acknowledges that the portrayal may be distressing and uncomfortable for viewers, but she is proud of the depth and authenticity it brings to the character’s struggles.

Earlier this year, special episodes focused on the coercive control storyline, including a dinner party scene at the King household where Tom’s abuse nearly came to light. More recently, Belle made the brave decision to leave her marriage after Tom took her to a remote Welsh cottage in an attempt to cut her off from her family permanently.

This upcoming episode promises to be a powerful and eye-opening exploration of Belle’s journey through abuse, offering viewers a profound understanding of her internal battles and the brutal realities she faces.