Emmerdale’s boss has defended the highly controversial scene where Tom King poisons Belle’s beloved dog, Piper, triggering 850 complaints to Ofcom. The episode shows Tom using a syringe to harm Piper and manipulate Belle. The soap responded by releasing behind-the-scenes footage of Minnie, the dog actor, to assure fans she was unharmed.
‘This Is All Based On Research’ Says Soap Maker On Controversial Scene
ITV soap big boss explains showing Tom King being horrible to Belle’s beloved dog, Piper. After Piper was poisoned, the viewers got so upset- 850 complaints went to Ofcom. The scene featured abuser Tom using a syringe to poison Piper while Belle was in a mental health facility.
After everyone got mad, the soap makers had to show behind-the-scenes of Minnie, the dog actor playing Piper, to prove she was okay. They wrote, “These scenes can be distressing to watch, but we want to remind you that Minnie (AKA Piper) is an outstanding actor and is always living her best life on set! We can confirm that no harm has come to her whatsoever.”
Producer Laura Shaw explained that the plot point was identified during their research. According to their findings, abusers often use family pets and loved ones as tools to harm their victims. Therefore, the inclusion of Piper in the storyline was grounded in research, not simply being mean to the dog without reason.
She humorously remarked that they should have chosen an ‘ugly dog’ instead. She stated, “I don’t think having such a cute dog has helped. Whenever you put any pet in danger on Emmerdale everyone goes up in arms about it. Did I expect it? Yes.” She went on to confirm that Piper would definitely play a future role in the story.
Tom Catches His WIfe’s Abortion Lie
Next week, Tom finds out Belle went to an abortion clinic and gets furious. Meanwhile, Belle admits to her therapist she lied about having a miscarriage. Back in town, Noah innocently tells Tom he saw Belle, who was supposed to be walking her dog.
Tom loses it and starts wrecking everything in a barn. Then, he accidentally shocks himself with an electric bar. The boss described the audience reaction as ‘phenomenal’ and highlighted that domestic abuse had been previously covered in soap operas, but their approach was unique.
She mentioned that the audience response had been remarkable, with numerous women and men sharing their own experiences. Laura acknowledged that reading some of these messages was upsetting as it highlighted the widespread impact of domestic abuse. However, she also emphasised that their portrayal gave people a voice and enabled them to speak out about their experiences.
For more such Emmerdale Spoilers, stay tuned to the Soap Opera Daily! Also, what do you think? Will the incident spell the end of Belle-Tom’s marriage? Or will the vet manage to manipulate his wife once again? Only time will tell!