Emmerdale’s Ashley Dies, Horror Rape, and Pregnancy Twist: Five Years Ago on Soap

Emmerdale had a major storyline run in April 2017 that is often featured on ITV today.

Emmerdale aired scenes of heartbreak and tragedy at this point five years ago – and two of the storylines were brought up again this year.

Vicar Ashley Thomas has sadly passed away after a battle with early-onset dementia.

Mr. Laurel’s wife, children Gabby and Arthur and their loved ones said their final goodbyes at his emotional funeral that same month.

Just recently, Gabby, now a parent, and brother Arthur reflected on how much has changed in the 5 years since his death.

The scenes shot in 2017 left viewers heartbroken, as the character deteriorated before passing away in his hometown.

Also in April of this year, Pierce’s jealousy, along with controlling and coercive behavior towards his partner Rhona took place in horror.

On what was supposed to be the happiest day of their lives, Pierce brutally and horribly raped his wife after performing his duty, leaving her distraught.

After weeks of having Rhona’s loved ones share their concerns about his behavior, he turned down his new bride.

Rhona soon reported her husband to the police for his heinous crime, and the character was arrested and eventually jailed.

She had previously reported the attack but covered up the fact that it was Pierce who assaulted her, and also did not press charges – until three months after she revealed the truth.

Pierce has been back on soap since, and after killing Rhona’s partner in 2020, he tried to force her to run away with him, but the police caught him.

The perpetrator recently died in prison after being diagnosed with a terminal illness, and his son Marcus also joined the show.

In another development in April 2017, Emma Barton still hid the fact that she caused the death of teammate James – and also caused a car accident that left many people injured.

Rebecca White soon discovered she was pregnant with Robert Sugden’s child, while she was in a relationship with Ross Barton.

When Rebecca initially claims Ross is the father, he soon learns the truth after she decides to have an abortion – on Robert’s advice.

Any theories or thoughts on the plot? Let us know in the comments section below

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.