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No, I think it's just a device to make Ashley even more irrational and unforgiving.Perhaps it's just another test of their relationship? I can't figure out where the hell they're going with all this. It's a bit schizophrenic.:hmm:Quote:
Originally Posted by tammyy2j
:dQuote:
Originally Posted by tammyy2j
Ashley is the best part of this crap love triangle he is playing a blinder heading for a breakdown I thinkQuote:
Originally Posted by Katy
Emmerdale will be revisiting the romantic spark between Laurel Thomas and Marlon Dingle in the coming weeks.
The pair fell in love last year, but stopped short of embarking on a proper relationship as Laurel decided to make a go of things with husband Ashley instead.
Since then, viewers have seen the Thomases hit the rocks once again due to Ashley's abuse of his father Sandy.
This week's TV Times magazine has a summer preview for the soaps, in which actress Charlotte Bellamy discusses where things are heading next for her character Laurel.
Confirming that Laurel and Marlon's plot is far from over, Bellamy commented: "It's inevitable, really. I think they deserve that happiness and it's definitely what viewers want - they keep asking me when it's going to happen.
"Laurel fell in love with Marlon and she only stayed with Ashley because it was the right thing to do. Now her marriage is over, it's time for her to think about what she wants."
Emmerdale fans can expect the story to become prominent on screen again from July.
This viewer doesn't want to see Laurel & Marlon together. I'm definitely not a fan of Marlon.
"Emmerdale fans can expect the story to become prominent on screen again from July."
Great - another relationship I don't buy into. Laurel and Marlon does not work anywhere near as well as Rachel and Marlon. Always hankered after this coupling.
I know what Ashley did was wrong on all levels but really the man needs help - and a bath - and some food - and some self respect - and a far better wardrobe!!!!
I know I'm in the minority, but I don't mind Laurel and Marlon. Bellamy seems to be a better actor than Mark whatever his name, so that might be arkward? But maybe it will be more interesting now that they're unattached and able to pursue a proper relationship?? Obviously, TPTB are determined to put these two together 0_0, so I'll wait and see before giving the thumbs down.:thumbsdow
Who the hell wants this?Quote:
Confirming that Laurel and Marlon's plot is far from over, Bellamy commented: "It's inevitable, really. I think they deserve that happiness and it's definitely what viewers want - they keep asking me when it's going to happen.
She is deluded
Marlon should have been axed ages ago useless character
Quote:
Originally Posted by Perdita
Please No!
Not me! They are a terrible, chemistry-free couple - the simpering is so annoying. Marlon is useless and should be axed pronto - or at least taken away from this terrible storyline. Personally, in order to streamline the Dingles a bit, I'd axe him.Quote:
Originally Posted by lizann
The only reason I want to know when it's going to happen :( :( :( it to make sure I avoid it.Quote:
Originally Posted by Perdita
How can Laurel get custody of Gaby, wouldnt Diane or Bernice or Rodney get her if Ashley isnt allowed have full custody?
Did Laurel officially adopt Gaby?
I wonder will Marlon and his dog move in with Laurel and Sandy and the kids or will Laurel and the kids move in with Lizzie, Ashley and Marlon now?
I don't think anyone would wan't to split up the children. Big kick in the teeth for Ashley if Marlon moves in with the kids and Sandy. Don't think Laurel adopted Gabby. Bernice might return to stir things up a bit.
Emmerdale's Mark Charnock has outlined his belief that Marlon and Laurel could stay together for a long time.
Speaking to Inside Soap, the actor explained that he believes the new couple have a "quirky" rapport.
"I think they're really well matched," he said. "They're both quirky, romantic in an off-kilter way. They're both quite funny. I just think it's a meeting of minds really.
"They both really get each other and are people who a lot of the other villagers don't get."
Laurel Thomas (Charlotte Bellamy) left vicar husband Ashley when it was exposed that he was abusing his father Sandy.
Meanwhile, Marlon lives to regret his forthcoming decision to stay with Laurel instead of joining his son in New Zealand.
Charnock added: "Marlon decides to stay with Laurel and says, 'I'll just make it work', which is a lie. His son's everything to him and there's inevitably going to be a moment when he says, 'Actually, why am I being made to choose?'"
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has warned that it won't be plain sailing for Laurel Thomas and Marlon Dingle as they attempt to build a stable future as a couple.
The pair have finally become an item in recent weeks, but are currently keeping the news a secret from the rest of the village.
Laurel split from husband Ashley earlier this year as his abusive behaviour towards dad Sandy was revealed.
Speaking of having fewer scenes with John Middleton - who plays Ashley - Bellamy told Inside Soap: "It's very weird - I don't see him much now after we'd worked so intensely together. It's as if your own relationship changes, but that's the world of soap.
"It's going to be awful to see Laurel tell Ashley that she's with Marlon - though it doesn't happen as you might expect it would."
As well as having Ashley to worry about, Laurel may be disappointed by the way stepdaughter Gabby reacts to the changes in her life.
Bellamy continued: "Laurel's set to move in with Marlon, and they'll have their own family unit. I don't know if they'll get married or have a baby, but it's a big change in Laurel's life and my journey in the show. However, I don't think it's going to be plain sailing with little Gabby."
Emmerdale stars Charlotte Bellamy and John Middleton have insisted that they enjoy the viewer "debate" surrounding their characters' recent break-up.
The pair's alter egos Laurel and Ashley Thomas split earlier this year in the climax of the soap's elder abuse storyline. Laurel has since embarked on a relationship with Marlon Dingle, having had strong feelings for the Woolpack chef for quite some time.
Bellamy told Digital Spy of the ongoing storyline: "It's sad for myself and John because we don't work together as much, and we have worked together for eight years. In a way, it is like a divorce!
"But at the same time, our characters have to keep evolving and changing. Even though the audience might not like it, the story creates a debate. It's great that people have different opinions, as that means they care about the characters."
Middleton added: "One audience driver for the show is the debate around these things. You can't have debate if it's all one-sided. Instead people are taking the side of Laurel, taking the side of Marlon, or are taking the side of Ashley.
"It's all being debated over various watercoolers, and any soap has to create that national debate to keep the audience feeling they're missing something if they're not tuning in!"
Middleton confessed that while he would be surprised to see Ashley and Laurel reunite, he would not rule it out.
He said: "There's a certain destructive element in the creation of stories. You can't have stories without change. God knows these characters have gone through huge stories this year, with big consequences!
"What's good is that we don't absolutely know the direction of the story. We don't absolutely know that it's the end for Laurel and Ashley. I very much doubt they'll be getting back together, but they'll still have a connection because of the children. It's very messy and that messiness is what we're playing at the moment."
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has revealed that there is a big new storyline on the way for her character Laurel Thomas.
Life has been quieter for Laurel in recent months after an eventful 2012 saw her break up with husband Ashley (John Middleton) and settle down with Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock).
However, speaking to Inside Soap, Bellamy explained that Rhona Goskirk's ongoing painkiller addiction will have significant consequences for Laurel.
The actress teased: "Laurel's involved in Rhona's painkiller addiction because of Marlon and baby Leo. That bleeds into a big storyline for Laurel.
"I can't reveal too much, but there are consequences from Rhona's drug taking that will cause something to happen to Laurel. It'll be exciting, and I'm looking forward to it!"
Rhona's problem looks likely to get worse over the next few weeks as she remains in denial about the extent of her addiction, despite protests from her best friend Vanessa Woodfield (Michelle Hardwick).
Emmerdale continues tonight (May 28) at 7pm on ITV.
Emmerdale's Laurel Thomas will be brutally attacked during a car-jacking, in an upcoming storyline.
Charlotte Bellamy, who plays Laurel, recently teased a big storyline ahead for her character.
The Daily Star reports that the violent confrontation happens after Laurel gets caught up in Rhona Goskirk's ongoing pain killer addiction problem.
In scenes to be aired later this summer, Laurel will be pounced on and attacked by a thug.
Bellamy said: "I can't say too much but it has big consequences for Laurel throughout the rest of the year. It's exciting stuff though, I'm really happy."
Rhona's problem is to get worse over the next few weeks as she remains in denial about the extent of her addiction, despite protests from her best friend Vanessa Woodfield (Michelle Hardwick).
Emmerdale's Laurel Thomas will embark on a very dangerous plan in the aftermath of her carjacking ordeal.
Struggling to cope after being targeted outside a chemist in a rough area, Laurel decides that the only way to get closure is to confront her attacker face-to-face.
Laurel soon finds herself on a wild goose chase as she tries to track down the man responsible, but it's obvious to everyone around her that she's playing with fire.
Here, Charlotte Bellamy - who plays Laurel - reveals the reasoning behind her character's drastic actions.
How does the carjacking affect Laurel?
"It makes Laurel extremely nervous and anxious. She becomes unable to trust people, which is only natural because she's been through a very traumatic experience.
"When someone is carjacked, it's completely out of the blue. There's no rhyme or reason - it's just bad luck or bad timing. I think that totally unnerves Laurel. Another scary thing is that baby Leo is in the back of the vehicle. The carjacker wants to drive off with Laurel, so what are his intentions? What does he want? Laurel does manage to get out of the car with Leo, but she's haunted by the unknown and the fear of what could have happened."
Laurel is only outside the chemist because she's giving Rhona a lift. Does Laurel blame Rhona for putting her in that position?
"Laurel doesn't blame Rhona at all, because of course she doesn't know the reason that Rhona wanted her to wait outside the chemist in the car. Obviously the audience will know that Rhona just wanted to get her fix, but Laurel isn't aware of any of that. It's actually quite tough for Rhona, because she knows the reality of the situation and that her actions put Leo in danger."
Do Laurel and Rhona talk much about the incident afterwards?
"They don't, because Laurel doesn't really want to talk about it. She's dealing with it in her own way, and of course Rhona doesn't want to probe her. Rhona is just obsessed with getting her next fix."
Laurel later spots her car in Cain's garage. How does she react?
"Laurel is really freaked out by that, and she wonders if Cain might have something to do with the person who attacked her. She can't understand why he's got her car. Laurel starts to wonder whether the attacker is close to home."
Does Laurel share her suspicions with the police?
"Yes, Laurel makes a decision to tell the police, which of course opens a massive can of worms. In true Cain form, he feels that Laurel has broken the Dingle code of silence. He'd told her that he would deal with the situation himself, but Laurel wasn't going to be bullied by him and spoke to the police. Unfortunately, that means Cain will no longer help Laurel out, because she didn't do it his way."
Why is Laurel so keen to find the carjacker herself rather than having faith in the police?
"Well, Laurel finds out that Cain has got rid of the car, which will make all leads difficult to follow, because there's no evidence. Laurel becomes totally driven by finding the attacker, because she wants to tell him how he's affected her life."
Does Laurel realise that she might be putting herself in danger?
"She does, but she's so driven by this and she wants to protect her children. It's like tunnel vision and she's not seeing the bigger picture. Laurel thinks that if she confronts him, it'll make the situation better because she'll be able to face her fears."
Does Laurel suspect anyone in particular?
"She becomes very paranoid and keeps thinking that she can see the attacker in the village. She goes on a bit of a goose-hunt and she keeps getting the wrong man.
"One important thing is that there was a DS in the car which has also gone missing, so Laurel starts looking on the internet for it, in case anybody's trying to sell it. She's aware that it's full of scratches and she thinks she's found it online. It belongs to a local boy. But Laurel keeps getting it wrong, and the audience will think that she's never going to find the attacker, and also that she's gone a bit loopy-loop. However, she does find the attacker eventually…"
What happens when Laurel follows the DS lead?
"Laurel tricks Paddy into taking her to the house of the seller, but it's not the right person. When Marlon finds out what's gone on, immediately he starts to become concerned with Laurel's behaviour. She's so focused and determined to find this man. She just can't move on until she's faced him."
Marlon seems a lot more content to just let it go. How does Laurel feel about that?
"Laurel thinks that Marlon is frightened of Cain and his possible involvement, but she just can't deal with that."
Is Laurel suffering from post-traumatic shock?
"Well, her behaviour is certainly erratic and it gets worse and worse, but we'll have to see. She's just becoming more agitated, but she has to see this through. With the car being in Cain's garage, it's tough for her to think that the carjacker could be closer than she thought, or have connections with Cain.
"Laurel has never done anything wrong in her life, so she's also trying to understand how she became victim to such a terrible attack. Carjacking is so common - more common than people think. We might not think about it when we're sitting at a traffic jam, but you're very vulnerable in a car."
What are Laurel's plans for what she'd do if she did find the carjacker?
"I think Laurel never thought she would react in this way, but she's so determined to protect her family and her children that she'd just do whatever it takes.
"If she did find the attacker, she'd be putting herself in a very dangerous position, so it wouldn't be a wise move. But she's not really thinking long-term. She's thinking about getting him back and getting him to say sorry. However, of course he's not going to see things the same way Laurel would, because he's a pretty heartless character."
Is Laurel and Marlon's relationship under threat?
"They've been through a lot anyway, but it's frustrating when something like this happens to a couple and one party doesn't feel as though they're being understood. It's that miscommunication which puts a massive strain on their relationship, so we'll have to see whether they can make it through this."
Emmerdale's Laurel Thomas will embark on a very dangerous plan in the aftermath of her carjacking ordeal.
Struggling to cope after being targeted outside a chemist in a rough area, Laurel decides that the only way to get closure is to confront her attacker face-to-face.
Laurel soon finds herself on a wild goose chase as she tries to track down the man responsible, but it's obvious to everyone around her that she's playing with fire.
Here, Charlotte Bellamy - who plays Laurel - reveals the reasoning behind her character's drastic actions.
How does the carjacking affect Laurel?
"It makes Laurel extremely nervous and anxious. She becomes unable to trust people, which is only natural because she's been through a very traumatic experience.
"When someone is carjacked, it's completely out of the blue. There's no rhyme or reason - it's just bad luck or bad timing. I think that totally unnerves Laurel. Another scary thing is that baby Leo is in the back of the vehicle. The carjacker wants to drive off with Laurel, so what are his intentions? What does he want? Laurel does manage to get out of the car with Leo, but she's haunted by the unknown and the fear of what could have happened."
Laurel is only outside the chemist because she's giving Rhona a lift. Does Laurel blame Rhona for putting her in that position?
"Laurel doesn't blame Rhona at all, because of course she doesn't know the reason that Rhona wanted her to wait outside the chemist in the car. Obviously the audience will know that Rhona just wanted to get her fix, but Laurel isn't aware of any of that. It's actually quite tough for Rhona, because she knows the reality of the situation and that her actions put Leo in danger."
Do Laurel and Rhona talk much about the incident afterwards?
"They don't, because Laurel doesn't really want to talk about it. She's dealing with it in her own way, and of course Rhona doesn't want to probe her. Rhona is just obsessed with getting her next fix."
Laurel later spots her car in Cain's garage. How does she react?
"Laurel is really freaked out by that, and she wonders if Cain might have something to do with the person who attacked her. She can't understand why he's got her car. Laurel starts to wonder whether the attacker is close to home."
Does Laurel share her suspicions with the police?
"Yes, Laurel makes a decision to tell the police, which of course opens a massive can of worms. In true Cain form, he feels that Laurel has broken the Dingle code of silence. He'd told her that he would deal with the situation himself, but Laurel wasn't going to be bullied by him and spoke to the police. Unfortunately, that means Cain will no longer help Laurel out, because she didn't do it his way."
Why is Laurel so keen to find the carjacker herself rather than having faith in the police?
"Well, Laurel finds out that Cain has got rid of the car, which will make all leads difficult to follow, because there's no evidence. Laurel becomes totally driven by finding the attacker, because she wants to tell him how he's affected her life."
Does Laurel realise that she might be putting herself in danger?
"She does, but she's so driven by this and she wants to protect her children. It's like tunnel vision and she's not seeing the bigger picture. Laurel thinks that if she confronts him, it'll make the situation better because she'll be able to face her fears."
Does Laurel suspect anyone in particular?
"She becomes very paranoid and keeps thinking that she can see the attacker in the village. She goes on a bit of a goose-hunt and she keeps getting the wrong man.
"One important thing is that there was a DS in the car which has also gone missing, so Laurel starts looking on the internet for it, in case anybody's trying to sell it. She's aware that it's full of scratches and she thinks she's found it online. It belongs to a local boy. But Laurel keeps getting it wrong, and the audience will think that she's never going to find the attacker, and also that she's gone a bit loopy-loop. However, she does find the attacker eventually…"
What happens when Laurel follows the DS lead?
"Laurel tricks Paddy into taking her to the house of the seller, but it's not the right person. When Marlon finds out what's gone on, immediately he starts to become concerned with Laurel's behaviour. She's so focused and determined to find this man. She just can't move on until she's faced him."
Marlon seems a lot more content to just let it go. How does Laurel feel about that?
"Laurel thinks that Marlon is frightened of Cain and his possible involvement, but she just can't deal with that."
Is Laurel suffering from post-traumatic shock?
"Well, her behaviour is certainly erratic and it gets worse and worse, but we'll have to see. She's just becoming more agitated, but she has to see this through. With the car being in Cain's garage, it's tough for her to think that the carjacker could be closer than she thought, or have connections with Cain.
"Laurel has never done anything wrong in her life, so she's also trying to understand how she became victim to such a terrible attack. Carjacking is so common - more common than people think. We might not think about it when we're sitting at a traffic jam, but you're very vulnerable in a car."
What are Laurel's plans for what she'd do if she did find the carjacker?
"I think Laurel never thought she would react in this way, but she's so determined to protect her family and her children that she'd just do whatever it takes.
"If she did find the attacker, she'd be putting herself in a very dangerous position, so it wouldn't be a wise move. But she's not really thinking long-term. She's thinking about getting him back and getting him to say sorry. However, of course he's not going to see things the same way Laurel would, because he's a pretty heartless character."
Is Laurel and Marlon's relationship under threat?
"They've been through a lot anyway, but it's frustrating when something like this happens to a couple and one party doesn't feel as though they're being understood. It's that miscommunication which puts a massive strain on their relationship, so we'll have to see whether they can make it through this."
Emmerdale's Marlon Dingle faces a desperate race against time next week after his partner Laurel Thomas puts herself in serious danger.
When Laurel (Charlotte Bellamy) tracks down the carjacker and confronts him at his home, it proves to be a terrible decision as her attacker becomes threatening all over again.
Marlon later realises where Laurel is and recruits Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) to help him rescue her, but can they get there before any further damage is done?
Here, Mark Charnock - who plays Marlon - previews the dramatic scenes ahead.
How is Marlon coping in the aftermath of Laurel's carjacking ordeal?
"Badly! I think Laurel's reaction to it has taken Marlon by surprise. I don't think he realised how profoundly it would affect Laurel. That may seem naïve, but she's just become so obsessed and unpredictable. Marlon doesn't really realise that Laurel is suffering from post-traumatic stress. He can't put a label on it like that.
"Marlon is trying to be as supportive as he can and he's doing all of the obvious things, but Laurel is rejecting a lot of that support. Everything he says, Laurel takes the wrong way."
So is it causing strain for their relationship?
"Yes it is, and that's especially the case later on in the storyline when Ashley comes into play. Ashley gives Laurel some really good advice and suggests that she should seek therapy. Marlon feels like the ground that he's fought so hard to get is shifting from under him. He doesn't understand why - that's the worst thing about it.
"Marlon has been through a lot of things in his life, but this is psychological distress on a level that he hasn't really encountered before. He thinks that love, care and tenderness will be enough for Laurel, but it's not. She needs proper help."
Next week, Laurel thinks that she sees her attacker in the café. How does Marlon react?
"Marlon's initial thought is that it must be another slightly delusional moment for Laurel. She's already been suspicious in the past and got it wrong. However, this time Laurel seems so convinced and so Marlon decides that she must be right. Marlon has a mixed reaction - one is absolute fury and wanting to get this guy. The other is that it's an opportunity for Laurel to get the closure she needs."
What happens to the guy in the question?
"Everyone rushes to the café, where Bob and Dan are already restraining this man a little bit. Marlon rushes through the door, grabs the guy and shoves him onto the sofa. The other guy is a lot bigger, but Marlon is fuelled by a momentum in these scenes. They've got the guy, and once the police have taken him away, it's great because Laurel has finally got closure.
"Unfortunately, then it's all turned on its head, because it turns out that the guy has got a perfectly good alibi and is completely innocent. That just doubles the original problem…"
How does Laurel feel about that?
"At first it's just utter disbelief. She's so sure it's him and she's so desperate to find that person, so she'll put it on anyone. However, in the end it just sharpens her drive and accentuates all of the feelings that she has. Laurel fears that she's never going to find her attacker, but she's determined to try harder. It makes her more obsessive and she drives Marlon further away from her."
Laurel also fears that Marlon is ridiculing her at one point, doesn't she?
"Yes, Laurel overhears a conversation between Marlon and Diane where he says, 'Well as long as Laurel isn't looking for more baddies!' It's quite a light remark, but Laurel completely overreacts to it because she thinks that Marlon is mocking her. It looks like the most terrible social betrayal, but it's not, as Marlon just needs someone to talk to and is confiding in Diane."
Later in the week, Laurel tracks down the real attacker at his home and confronts him with some scissors. How aware is Marlon of what's going on?
"At first Marlon is not aware at all, because Laurel admits that she's been difficult and promises to move on. She's really convincing, but it's all just an act. However, there's a real turning point when Marlon hears that she hasn't been at work. He immediately knows that something is wrong.
"It turns out that Dan has given Laurel a list of the garages that Cain has been dealing with, and she's found the attacker that way. Dan takes the list and goes to Cain, needing his help. Cain sees that Marlon is so desperate that he's got to help out. Cain also knows that if he'd stepped in to help earlier, the situation might be a lot different. The Dingle loyalty kicks in, and Cain is great as he's actually quite heroic in the scenes coming up."
Marlon and Cain try to find Laurel and save her before it's too late. How are they feeling?
"It's utter desperation at this point. The more the day goes on, Marlon becomes more and more hysterical. He knows that Laurel is all alone and in danger. This carjacker could be a murderer or anything, so it's blind terror."
Will Marlon show a tough side when he tracks down the attacker?
"Well, when Marlon first joined the show, he was quite a puncher! He used to punch a lot of people, so he wasn't quite as wimpy as he is today. With age has come increased wimpiness!
"At the back of all this is the fear of losing someone like he did with Tricia. That motivates all of this. Marlon has never been through anything worse than that. If he went through anything similar again, it would absolutely destroy him. You'll see that any fear in Marlon is taken away by his absolute desperation to save Laurel…"
What has the storyline been like to film?
"Fantastic and really exciting. There's been a lot of action, a lot of scrapping and massive emotional turmoil. Those are the stories that you want to be doing. It's been a belter, actually.
"With these scenes, it was great to work with Jeff Hordley because we're good friends off-screen but we don't always have many scenes together. You sometimes forget they're cousins, so it should be nice for the audience to watch."
Do you think Laurel and Marlon can cope with the aftermath of this?
"I think they are strong enough to. It's definitely shaken the ground under their feet, but they do love each other. Once they come out the other side of this, it might strengthen them more. I'm not sure Ashley will see it like that, but upheavals can really cement long-term relationships."
Do you think they'll get married?
"Maybe! It's certainly possible. I think they're set, barring any absolute disasters. I think there's a very strong future with them, with lots of possibilities. I'd like them to stay together, but you can never second guess these things. They've come through a lot and they're a good match. Me and Charlotte get on really well, so that's always a help. We really work hard on our scenes to make them as interesting and textured as possible."
.
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has revealed that her character Laurel Dingle will go into denial after her drinking problem leads to the loss of her job.
Laurel has become increasingly reliant on alcohol in recent months, and she finally starts to face the consequences next week when her bosses at the factory notice her erratic behaviour.
The problems start for Laurel when hangovers in the morning lead to her arriving late at work, which doesn't go unnoticed by her supervisor Ali Spencer.
Things get worse when factory boss Jai Sharma also notices Laurel's lack of commitment to work and confronts her. When Laurel bites back with a comment about the businessman's son Archie, Jai sacks her on the spot.
Speaking of the drama to come, Bellamy commented: "Alcohol is numbing the pain for Laurel at the moment. She's finding life very difficult and hard, as would any working mum with a family that is not all her own. There's the extra pressures of stepchildren and everything that happened with Donna.
"I think drink has become a bit of a crutch for Laurel. She thinks a glass of wine at 5pm is fine and it just helps her through."
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Laurel lies to Marlon
© ITV
Laurel lies to Marlon
She continued: "When Laurel loses her job, she has to come home and tell Marlon. Laurel thinks that what happened is a shame, but she convinces herself that Jai is overreacting. She thinks she is never late and what's the problem if she made a little joke?
"Of course, in reality it's a case of denial, which does happen with people who have got drink problems. Laurel doesn't give Marlon the true version of the story, because I don't even think she believes the true version herself!"
Laurel does get a chance to redeem herself when she quickly lines up an interview for another job, but her alcohol problem ruins this opportunity too.
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Doug offers Laurel a sneaky drink will she be tempted?.
© ITV
Laurel has been developing a drink problem
Bellamy commented: "Laurel starts to get very nervous about the interview, so she decides to have some vodka to steady her nerves. It does make her calmer, but then she's late for the bus! She misses the interview, but she lies to Marlon that it went really well. Laurel is just becoming entangled in this web of lies, deceit and denial.
"I think the writers have tackled the storyline really well because it's been so subtle. You've seen it happen over a period of nearly six months. Even in the 40th anniversary live episode, Laurel was drunk!
"This could become a big problem for Laurel because she's not really happy. She wasn't even happy on her wedding day and she's not coping with her situation."
Emmerdale producer Kate Oates has revealed that Laurel Dingle's current drinking problem is the beginning of a much bigger storyline.
Viewers have seen Laurel (Charlotte Bellamy) develop a worrying reliance on alcohol in recent weeks, but the plot will head in a surprising direction in the longer-term - focusing on much more than just her addiction.
Oates confirmed that the unexpected developments ahead in the story will set it apart from Emmerdale's most recent addiction plot, which saw Rhona Goskirk become hooked on painkillers.
"The audience will have to wait and see how this story will be different, because what is different about the story is where it goes in the long-term," Oates explained. "It will be a much, much longer journey.
"It's not just about Laurel's alcoholism. It's not just about what that does to Laurel in the here and now and how she and her family deal with that, it's about where it goes beyond that. People will have to be patient and wait and see what happens with that one!"
Oates refused to reveal what the twist in the story's direction will be, but she promised that there is much more to come as the troubles within Laurel's marriage to Marlon (Mark Charnock) continue to take their toll.
She continued: "It's a long journey for Laurel and what we're seeing is that her marriage is really flawed. She's really struggling, but she thinks she has a 'life problem' rather than a drink problem and she's drinking to cover that life problem.
"It's nice to explore that and the problems in Laurel's relationship with Marlon, and also to use Duncan Preston as her dad Doug, because Doug is absolutely devastated to see his little girl in this situation. He's desperately trying to help her and she's just fighting all the way.
"One person who Laurel will come to rely on massively is her ex-husband Ashley through all of this, so the people who enjoyed Laurel and Ashley back in the day will hopefully enjoy this."
Next week's episodes will see Marlon's young daughter April become unwell after she accidentally drinks Laurel's secret glass of vodka and orange at home. A horrified Laurel has to rush April to hospital, before stooping to new lows to hide what happened from Marlon.
I didn't mind the character of Laurel when she was with Ashley, but have never liked the pairing of her and Marlon, and consequently now dislike her character. I hope she doesn't spoil Ashley's relationship with Harriet, but won't hold my breath.
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has revealed more details of April Windsor's upcoming hospital dash, admitting that it won't be a wake-up call for her troubled character Laurel Dingle.
Next week's episodes see the youngster become unwell after she mistakenly drinks Laurel's glass of vodka and orange at home. The worrying incident takes place after Laurel starts to drink spirits during the day.
While it's clear that Laurel's problems with alcohol are escalating, she refuses to admit this to herself and instead focuses her attentions on hiding what happened from her husband Marlon.
Speaking of the dramatic scenes, Bellamy commented: "It's not good at all. Laurel's drinking is starting to get out of control and that has consequences. That's when she has to do the terrible thing of trying to cover it up, because children talk.
"There's a terrible scene coming up for Laurel and April which I found difficult to film. Laurel has to tell April to lie. April even has this little sticker from the hospital to say how brave she is, but Laurel has to tell her to take it off. It's awful!
"Laurel feels absolutely terrible, but like with any alcoholic, she thinks she can have another drink and it'll just be okay. The audience will think 'just stop drinking then' but she keeps getting herself into worse situations and then trying to cover it. You know that it's going to unravel."
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April is taken to hospital after drinking Laurel's drink
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April in hospital
The cover-up helps to keep Marlon in the dark over his daughter's hospital visit, but Laurel's father Doug Potts does find out what happened.
Bellamy continued: "April tells Doug that she drank bad juice and went to hospital, so obviously he clicks on and confronts Laurel. Laurel is still in complete denial and says she doesn't have a problem. He knows it's something more sinister so he pursues it.
"This story goes further, so I think there will be a point of no return." Lets hope it is sooner rather than later
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has admitted that her character Laurel Dingle is still in denial when she returns to the village next week.
Laurel has taken a short break with her husband Marlon (Mark Charnock) after her constant drinking left their marriage in crisis.
The couple appear to be back on track when they finally arrive home next week, but it doesn't take long for the cracks to show once again.
Speaking of the upcoming scenes, Bellamy explained: "The break was amazing. Laurel and Marlon had a great few weeks and she hasn't drunk any alcohol during that time. They reconnected, so Laurel is feeling extremely positive that life is going to be okay.
"I don't think Laurel thinks she's 'cured' as such, because she doesn't really think there was that much of a problem in the first place. She thinks she just needed to reset, and she had said before she left that it was a life problem, not a drink problem.
"Laurel comes back in a really great frame of mind, but she's in denial that it was anything sinister or long-term. She just thinks that she maybe had a few binge drinking moments but it was nothing more than that."
The troubled character's latest breaking point comes when Jimmy King (Nick Miles) offers her a new job, only to later change his mind after hearing the extent of her recent problems.
Bellamy continued: "It's a really sad moment. Laurel is feeling so positive about everything and she feels that honesty is the best policy. It's a massive downfall that she is honest with Jimmy and then he doesn't give her the job after leading her on.
"Laurel comes crashing down and the first thing she reaches for is the drink. She drinks three bottles of wine, which leaves her unconscious. It was really hard to film because it's in front of the kids. It was a really brave move of the writers, but a really raw experience that lots of people have been through.
"It just shows you suddenly how vulnerable the children are and how vulnerable Laurel is too. The kids find her, so they call the ambulance and Arthur runs to the pub and tells everyone there. Laurel is unconscious at that point and rushed to hospital."
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Marlon finds Laurel being treated by the paramedics
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Marlon finds Laurel being treated
Marlon will be horrified when he learns of Laurel's latest relapse, but viewers will have to wait and see whether it is the final straw for their marriage.
Asked about portraying the dark storyline, Bellamy replied: "I'm really enjoying the challenges, actually. There are so many different lights and shades I wanted to bring to it. When drunk, people have different sides of their personality that come out. Sometimes you're an angry drunk, sometimes you're aggressive, sometimes you're weepy, sometimes you're silly or funny.
"As an actor it's been a real challenge to find all those lights and shades while telling a really poignant, raw, real story."
Two Emmerdale couples could be facing heartbreak this summer as their relationships come under severe strain.
In a new summer preview released by the ITV soap, series producer Kate Oates confirmed that Marlon Dingle will consider leaving his wife Laurel as her drinking problem spirals further out of control.
Life won't be much happier for Dan Spencer, as he is left to question his relationship with Kerry Wyatt.
Discussing the turmoil ahead for the Dingles, Oates told Emmerdale's official website: "One of the things I've really been enjoying since before Christmas is the Laurel alcoholism story. What people are going to see over spring and summer is that even though Doug knows that she's an alcoholic and has brought Marlon in on that secret, the one person who can't admit that she's an alcoholic is Laurel herself.
"We're going to see her move further down that slippery slope and whereas before she was getting people like April in jeopardy, this time it's going to be Laurel herself that's at risk.
"So Marlon's going to have some really tough decisions to make about how long he can stay in this marriage when he's got a little girl who really needs his help and support. We're also going to be seeing Ashley get more involved and really try to pull that person that he once loved so much out of this terrible, terrible problem."
Emmerdale star Charlotte Bellamy has warned of much worse turmoil to come for her troubled character Laurel Dingle, describing her next big mistake as "totally unforgiveable".
Laurel's drinking problem nearly killed her this week as she suffered a major relapse, but future episodes will see her continue to hit the bottle regardless.
Scenes airing towards the end of next week will see Laurel's husband Marlon (Mark Charnock) finally cut ties with her after he catches her doing something shocking, although exact details of what he sees have been kept under wraps.
Teasing the dramatic moment to come, Bellamy told Emmerdale's official website: "Laurel's feeling so angry that everyone is saying that she's got this problem, when she feels that she hasn't. She thinks that she's completely in control, but what happens next is something that is totally unforgiveable and very shocking, which proves that she is anything but in control.
"The consequences of this event are huge and the audience will think, 'How will she ever move on from this? How will she ever be forgiven?' You think that she's reached an all-time low, but in fact it's only just beginning."
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Cain and Marlon are horrified by what they witness.
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Marlon is left devastated
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Marlon spots Laurel doing something shocking
Marlon's cousin Cain (Jeff Hordley) will also be particularly vocal over Laurel's bad behaviour in the next few days, as it reminds him of his own family's experiences with alcoholism.
Bellamy added: "His dad Shadrach was an alcoholic, so it brings up huge memories of his past and he knows exactly what's going on in [Laurel's] mind."
I find this laurel storyline to be getting too much screentime.
It possibly is Serena. But in a way that isQuote:
Originally Posted by Serena Williams
realistic. People with serious alcohol
problems do/ can disrupt a lot of other
peoples lives for a long time.
Way beyond family circle and it is very
upsetting if children involved- as in this
story!
This is true but I find laurel so irritatin. I wish aaron and robert got the same amount of screentime. Does Kate oates not realize how popular robron is worldwide?Quote:
Originally Posted by maidmarian
This is true but I find laurel so irritating. The actors are doing a good job the actor who plays marlon and laurel are giving 100 percent to their performances. I just wish aaron and robert got the same amount of screentime. Does Kate oates not realize how popular robron is worldwide?Quote:
Originally Posted by maidmarian
You can't rush showing a person becoming an alcoholic and the effect this can have ... A lot of storylines on cancer, addiction of any kind, rape etc can make feel viewers uncomfortable and upset, which is why there is usually the advert for helplines at the end. But if you want to tell a story that is so multi faceted like alcohol dependency, you can't do this in a couple of weeks transmission time :nono:
Troubled Emmerdale character Laurel Dingle finally admits that she is an alcoholic next week - but actress Charlotte Bellamy has warned that her alter ego's problems aren't over.
Laurel's life has slowly spiralled out of control this year as she has grown increasingly reliant on alcohol to make it through the day, but she has always stopped short of admitting the extent of her problem.
Next week's Emmerdale episodes see Laurel's resolve finally crumble as she faces up to the truth in an emotional heart-to-heart with her ex-husband Ashley Thomas (John Middleton).
The big moment comes after Laurel's current husband Marlon (Mark Charnock) discovers that she has stooped to a new low by sleeping with a stranger in her quest for her latest fix.
Speaking of the upcoming scenes, Bellamy commented: "At this point Laurel is at her lowest ebb. She turns around to Ashley and says, 'I don't want your help - I don't deserve anyone's help now. I deserve to be on my own'.
"Ashley then gets Laurel to admit that she is an alcoholic. That is a real milestone in the story. It's a huge turning point because it's the moment where Laurel says, 'I know what I'm doing here and yes I'm an alcoholic'. It's the moment that she's not in denial anymore."
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Ashley spends time with Laurel and she finally makes a big admission.
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Laurel makes a big admission
Asked what the future holds for Laurel afterwards, Bellamy continued: "Our producers and writers have really managed this story so well. Just when you think it's going to be okay, it will have another twist.
"Of course with alcoholism you can't just get better overnight and it is a long journey for Laurel. But this story then takes lots of twists and turns too. You need to stay with it - it's not a simple happy ending."
Bellamy has been widely praised for her performances in the tough storyline, which has been running since the beginning of the year.
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Laurel realises she's slept with a total stranger
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Laurel sleeps with a stranger next week
Reflecting on the experience, she added: "I've welcomed the challenge and I've really enjoyed all the different aspects of playing an alcoholic. It's the different lights and shades and trying to find new subtleties in playing a drunk. The reactions of people have also been really interesting. It's been a great opportunity for me as an actor."
marlon should f*ck her out of the house, he has the kids, change the locks move back in with april and leo
Emmerdale spoilers: Laurel Dingle will realise she still loves her ex Ashley Thomas
Will the former couple be brought back together?
By Daniel Kilkelly, Digital Spy
28 November 2015
Emmerdale could be about to reunite one of its best-loved couples, as Laurel Dingle realises that she may still have feelings for her ex-husband Ashley Thomas.
Laurel has been growing closer to her ex recently and their connection won't go unnoticed by Ashley's outspoken father Sandy in scenes which air next month.
Viewers will see Laurel become annoyed and defensive when Sandy voices his suspicions, but she soon starts to accept that maybe she does want to get back with Ashley despite his relationship with Harriet Finch.
Charlotte Bellamy, who plays Laurel, revealed: "Laurel knows that Ashley was always there for her, especially when life got really tough with the alcohol. She's also dealing with the feeling of being on her own when Marlon is now dating again. She wonders where her life is going and finds herself looking back at Ashley.
"Laurel knows that Ashley loves Harriet, so it's a lose-lose situation. She doesn't want to ruin things for them, because that's not who she is. Laurel is quite defensive when Sandy challenges her over it, because he's got it bang on! It's obvious from the way Laurel talks about Ashley that she's back in love with him."
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Laurel denies having feelings for Ashley, but Sandy doesn't believe her
Both ladies in Ashley's life are currently unaware of the fact that he's recently been diagnosed with dementia.
As Laurel struggles with her feelings, she's shocked when Harriet confides in her by revealing that she's going to propose to Ashley.
Bellamy continued: "Laurel feels totally gutted about Harriet's plans, but she kind of sets up the situation herself almost to help her own feelings. She decides that if she convinces Harriet they're a great match, that will help Laurel to move on herself.
"If Laurel found out about Ashley's diagnosis, I think her reaction would be disbelief. She wouldn't be able to comprehend what he's saying. I hope Laurel will be closely involved in the storyline because they've been through so much. To see his last months out feels like the right story."
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Ashley tells Harriet he was confused and never wanted to break up with her
John Middleton, who plays Ashley, recently announced that his dementia storyline will ultimately lead to him leaving Emmerdale. He's currently contracted to stick with the soap throughout 2016.
Revealing her own reaction to the story, Bellamy admitted: "I was quite shocked really, because I'm losing a colleague. But John's really positive about it and he's happy. At the end of the day, we are actors - it's a great story for him and it will be a great way out.
"I also love getting my teeth into stories that have a real depth and will have an effect on people. Everyone knows someone who will have suffered from some form of dementia. It's so rife and I'm hoping this story will show how people do cope, because I think a lot of it is kept behind closed doors.
"We've been to care homes that specialise in different forms of dementia and we've been in touch with charities, so we've done a lot of research. It's great to be armed with as much information as you can, so you can give a truthful portrayal. It will be emotional, but of course we'll have to find some light moments in it as well."
Source:
http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emme...ashley-thomas/
Emmerdale’s Charlotte Bellamy: Laurel will be with Ashley to the bitter end
SoapSquawk
28th November 2015
>Why do you think Laurel’s started to have feelings for Ashley again?
I think it’s a feeling that he was always there for her, especially when life got really tough with the alcohol. Being on her own in a house with Marlon who is still dating, she’s feeling like she doesn’t know where her life is going and finds herself looking back at Ashley.
>Ashley has always loved her, is she aware of his feelings?
No, she’s not taken that for granted and knows that he loves Harriet. It’s a lose/lose situation, she doesn’t want to ruin things because that’s not the kind of person that she is. She’s just coming to terms with the fact she’s in love with him and he loves someone else.
>Sandy works out how she’s feeling about Ashley, how does she react when he challenges her about it?
She’s quite defensive when he challenges her because he’s bang on and he can see that she’s back in love with Ashley.
>Does she feel guilty when Harriet tells her she wants to marry Ashley?
She’s feels totally gutted because she kind of sets up the situation to sort of help her own feelings. If she convinces Harriet that they are a great match then Laurel won’t be in that situation of being in love with Ashley, she’ll try and move on. Of course, she makes things worse!
>Ashley is hiding his dementia diagnosis, how will Laurel take that news?
She wouldn’t be able to comprehend what she’s saying, it would be complete disbelief. It’s early onset dementia so it’s very rare, but I don’t think she will be able to comprehend it.
>Would you like to see them reunited?
Yeah, I think they have been through so much and to see his last few months out, it feels like a right story.
>Was Ashley always the one for her?
Marlon did say that he couldn’t cope with her disloyalty and her alcoholism so he did finish that relationship. But fate has a weird way of putting people together and Laurel’s going to nurse Ashley to the last few days.
>How did you feel about Ashley’s illness?
I was quite shocked because I am losing a colleague. When you have been working with someone for decades it’s quite shocking. John’s really positive about it, he’s happy and at the end of the day we are actors so we have to move on. It’s a great story for him and it’ll be a great way out.
>Are you pleased to be a part of such an issue-led storyline?
Oh yeah, I love getting my teeth into something that has such depth, truth and will have an effect on the audience. Everyone knows someone who have suffered from some form of dementia, it’s so rife. I’m hoping this story will show how people do cope because a lot of it is kept behind closed doors. I’m talking about the people looking after people with dementia and how tricky and heart-wrenching it can be.
Source: (news link liable to change but active right now)
http://www.soapsquawk.co.uk/news/emm...he-bitter-end/
(Link to be updated to a more stable one in due course)
Looks like Laurel comes through near the end for Ashley. True love always lasts to the end and beyond for the ones you really love, of course.
Nicola will play cupid after Laurel reveals her feelings.
By Sophie Dainty, Digital Spy
3 December 2015
Emmerdale's Nicola King will attempt to play cupid later this month when she realises that Laurel Dingle is still in love with her ex-husband Ashley Thomas.
Laurel still has strong feelings for Ashley, but has been forced to put them to one side due to his relationship with Harriet Finch.
However, Ashley and Harriet will split in an upcoming episode, leaving Laurel with renewed hope of a reconciliation.
Although Laurel is keen to keep her feelings under wraps, Nicola rumbles her secret after clocking the fond way that she looks at her former husband.
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Nicola clocks Laurel's fond look towards Ashley
After Laurel is forced to confirm that she's still in love with Ashley, an excited Nicola vows to get the couple back together by the end of the year.
Despite instructions from Laurel not to interfere, Nicola is soon pushing forward with her plan and engineers a reason for the pair to have a coffee together.
While Nicola is busy playing cupid, Laurel and Ashley are brought together on their own accord after she has unpleasant situation with Mat, the man she spent a drunken afternoon with at a bar a few months ago.
Laurel decides to be honest with Ashley after he saves the day, but he has an even bigger confession for her...
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Mat comes on too strong with Laurel
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Ashley defends Laurel and punches Mat
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Laurel decides to be honest with Ashley, but he has an even bigger confession for her
Emmerdale airs these scenes on Wednesday, December 16 and Friday, December 18 on ITV.
Read more at:
http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emme...el-and-ashley/
Emmerdale spoilers: Ashley and Laurel will reunite before Christmas
The pair will vow to stay together throughout Ashley's dementia battle.
By Daniel Kilkelly, Digital Spy
8 December 2015
Former Emmerdale couple Ashley Thomas and Laurel Dingle will have an emotional reunion in the build-up to Christmas.
The popular pair are finally brought back together after Laurel decides to confess that she still has feelings for Ashley.
Laurel makes her bold move after Ashley splits from his current partner Harriet Finch (Katherine Dow Blyton).
Ashley is initially hesitant and reluctantly breaks the news of his recent dementia diagnosis, but a shocked Laurel refuses to be deterred and vows to stand by him every step of the way.
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Laurel tells Ashley about her feelings for him
Charlotte Bellamy, who plays Laurel, revealed: "Laurel confesses her love to Ashley, but he says that she can't fall in love with him and then tells her why. It's an absolute shock - she can't understand it because he is only 54.
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Ashley tells Laurel about his dementia
"She's also seen Ashley around the village and he seemed fine. She knows he's been a bit forgetful, but she can't believe that he's been dealing with this all on his own. She's not going to leave him."
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Laurel can't believe what Ashley has told her
She continued: "Before you know it, they're back together and it feels like they haven't even been apart. When Laurel's alcoholism got really tough, Ashley was always there for her. He was the one who never judged her, and I think that was true love. That's what she quotes when they get back together.
"Ashley never really fell out of love with Laurel, and I think probably she didn't with him either. She was also in love with Marlon and he's funny and so different to Ashley, but her heart's really with Ashley, isn't it?"
While Laurel and Ashley's reunion will be welcomed by most, an upset Harriet will be stunned when she first sees them back together.
"Ashley does like Harriet and he respects her, but he doesn't want to put that burden on her. It doesn't feel right," Bellamy added. "She was fine as a girlfriend for him at that moment, but we're talking about something much bigger now and really the history lies with Laurel.
"Laurel doesn't try to split them up or anything like that. She actually tries to keep them together at first, but it kind of backfires. It's only after Ashley finishes it with Harriet that Laurel confesses her love. But yeah, poor Harriet!"
Ashley's dementia storyline is expected to run all the way through 2016, but John Middleton - who plays the vicar - has confirmed that it will ultimately be an exit storyline for his character as there is no cure.
Emmerdale airs Laurel and Ashley's reunion on Monday, December 21 at 7pm on ITV.
Read more at:
http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emme...ore-christmas/