Emmerdale fans have called for one of the soap's long-running stars to win awards for his recent storyline after another emotional scene between Marlon Dingle and his daughter April aired on Wednesday night's ITV soap. Viewers have commended actor Mark Charnock, who has played pub chef Marlon for more than 25 years, for his moving performance.
In recent scenes of the Yorkshire drama, Marlon returns home from hospital but still requires full-time care from partner Rhona following his stroke. Earlier in the week, Marlon's young daughter April, played by Amelia Flanagan, was seen giving her dad a drink after he told her he was thirsty.
But within moments Marlon was choking and a panicked April looked on in horror as she shouted for Rhona to come and help. The ordeal left the teenager frightened and she became withdrawn, worried she was going to hurt her dad again. During the episode April and her dad had a heart-to-heart, after he asked to return to hospital because he didn't want her to be "scared".
Taking to Twitter after the episode, 53-year-old actor Mark Charnock tweeted: "Proper heartfelt thanks to everyone for their kind words over the last few nights of #Emmerdale. One of the most positive aspects of it all is seeing people bravely sharing their very moving personal stories about strokes and supporting each other. You’re all amazing & inspiring. X"
The emotional scenes saw fans heap praise on the pair for their performances on social media, some said they were left "sobbing" and "heartbroken". "Marlon and April really out here making me sob", @vanitypending tweeted and Anikka Forbes added: "Emmerdale keeps making me cry at the Marlon scenes his playing his role so on-point!".
Others suggested Mark should win awards for his performance, Simon B posted "I've always loved the comedy antics of Marlon and Paddy in #Emmerdale but the acting of @markcharnock recently is something to behold. To suddenly have to play this part must have been so daunting, wanting to do it justice and he absolutely has. World class Mark. Award worthy".
Gilly K replied to the star: "Your performance is so real and heartfelt! Amazing acting and the fantastic young actress who plays April wow! Xx". Another fan, Elena Daniels added: "I cried last night watching Marlon and April together. It was sublime acting by you both. You all deserve awards but you especially Mark, your portrayal of a stroke victim is so accurate".
Graeme Coombs tweeted: "Mark, you should win every single TV, soap and acting award, for the heart rending portrayal of Marlon following his stroke. By far the best and most inspired piece of acting I have ever seen on TV, I was moved to tears". John said: "You’re breaking my heart. Such a powerful portrayal - understated in so many ways. Congrats to you and everyone @emmerdale. Brilliant!"
Emmerdale continues weeknights on ITV and ITV Hub from 7.30pm.
