Emmerdale viewers were taken aback as they recognised a newcomer on tonight's show.
Thursday's edition of the long-running soap continued to explore the blossoming romance with Ethan Anderson and Marcus Dean. However, Ethan was forced to leave Marcus midway through tonight's hour long episode as the defence lawyer was called upon to represent a new client following an attack in the village.
The character, played by Emile John, arrived at the police station to meet Jordan Greenlow, who had been arrested after he attacked Billy Fletcher. Billy was admitted to hospital due to his injuries - and later revealed to Dawn the assault was racially motivated.
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The Emmerdale newcomer denied the claims and asserted he attacked Billy in self defence. Viewers following the show on Twitter were taken aback during the scene as they spotted the character was played by Jack Parr, who portrayed Dougie Bill in hit BBC show, Peaky Blinders.
Sophie said: "Hey it’s Peaky Blinders guy!!"
Matthew commented: "Have they seriously just cast a Peaky Blinders actor (Jack Parr) in the role of Billy's racist attacker only for said attack to happen off screen-seriously!"
Jordan was later charged by the police for racially aggravated assault and Ethan was conflicted over whether he should continue to represent his new client. Harriet Finch tried to convince the lawyer to step aside and Ethan was left with the dilemma of whether he should follow his loyalties or his career.
Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7.30pm on ITV and the ITV Hub
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