A special "stylised" episode of Emmerdale will air next week as the domestic abuse storyline involving Belle (Eden Taylor-Draper) and her abusive husband Tom (James Chase) intensifies.
After months of psychological and physical trauma at the hands of Tom, Belle will be depicted in three possible futures in the episode - written by Tony Higgins and directed by Dales veteran Tim O'Mara.
The previous night, Tom threatens Belle by telling her that he will never give up on her - words that send her into a dream-like day as she envisions the three scenarios.
"In this stylised episode we explore Belle's worst fears and see the true extent of the impact her abusive relationship with Tom has had on her," said Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper.
"If one person seeks help for a situation they are in because of seeing Belle's plight it will be an achievement. Domestic abuse can be undetectable from outside a relationship and hopefully the scenes of Belle and then Amelia's relationships, though difficult viewing at times, may shine a light on some aspects of domestic abuse.
"Charity Dingle told Belle she would be available to listen whenever Belle was ready to talk. Could now finally be the time for Belle to open up about the extent of her abusive relationship?"
Taylor-Draper, who has played Belle since 2005, said: "I'm excited for everyone to see this dream episode as I feel it's a great representation of what's going on inside Belle's mind and the constant fear even though she is no longer 'in' the abusive relationship.
"It was a very special episode to film. I understand viewers will find it distressing and uncomfortable but I am so proud we are exploring this to its full potential to give people a real insight to what can go on."
The hour-long episode will air next Thursday, September 5 at 7.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Neil Wilkes
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