Emmerdale fans have been left in tears after Paddy Kirk revealed his devastating suicide plan.
Over the last few weeks, viewers have had to watch as Paddy's mental health deteriorated following his marriage breakdown. Struggling to cope with it all, he decided to leave Emmerdale without telling anyone, prompting a huge search.
He eventually called his dad Bear Wolf to tell him that everyone needed to stop looking for him. This week, Paddy returned to the village, but as viewers correctly predicted, it was only to say his goodbyes.
Read more: Emmerdale’s Dominic Brunt admits he finds 'difficult' Paddy Dingle story 'huge responsibility
No one in the village suspected Paddy had come to the heartbreaking decision to end his life. Only Dawn Fletcher became suspicious when he offered to "hold down the fort" at the vets.
Asking him if he wanted a "naughty" doughnut from the café, he replied: "I'm good." Looking closely at his face, she replied: "Are you though, Paddy? Are you good?"
Not long after, Paddy disappears again, leaving family, friends and fans worried. Many have praised actor Dominic Brunt for his superb acting during tonight's episode, while others were pleased with how sensitively ITV has handled the storyline.
Others pleaded for anyone affected by the story or who is going through something similar to go and get help.
@_erinz_ said: "Really strong episode. They’ve portrayed so well the peace and clarity that someone finds when they’ve decided to take their own life. Paddy seemed back to his usual self, but it’s because he thought he’d found a way out."
@alligatoruk wrote: "This Paddy suicide story on Emmerdale is so upsetting - that he feels he has mental clarity in choosing to end his life is heartbreaking. Deciding not to be here will never be the best for your loved ones. If you feel low please talk to someone @samaritans freephone 116 123."
@Momrocks50 praised: "As a mental health nurse well done the writers and @dominicbrunt for the fabulous portrait of Paddy in severe crisis well done."
@TanyaAn35180018 said: "I lost my daughter to suicide. I appreciate Emmerdale addressing this sensitive subject. The signs may be there if we look, and we need to reach in, rather than asking people to reach out. Well done @dominicbrunt."
And @dawnjones1979 tweeted: "Wow, Emmerdale, what an episode, it’s breaking my heart seeing Paddy so lost. Such a great portrayal of how someone's mental health can make you look all happy on the outside but on the inside it’s a whole different story."
Paddy's storyline is part of ITV's bid to raise awareness for men's mental health. A special episode featuring an ensemble cast of only male actors will air on March 10 during which Marlon Dingle will set up a late night lock-in at the Emmerdale Woolpack, with one thing on the agenda: men talking to each other.
As ever, we'll continue to bring you the big Emmerdale news about what is happening in the village and away from it. You can visit our Emmerdale homepage to find the latest gossip about the soap and its stars.
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.
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