Emmerdale's James Chase says it's "challenging" portraying abuser Tom | Radio Times

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We caught up with Chase at the RadioTimes.com Soap Awards 2024, sponsored by Inspired Villages, and spoke all about the villainous character.

"I think it is challenging [playing Tom], because some of the scenes are pretty dark," the actor admitted. "I always try to throw myself into it as much as I can, but I always stop myself from taking it home because it can be so dark."

In a stylised shot to promote a domestic abuse storyline on Emmerdale, Belle sits with a purple top on while Tom stands behind her menacingly. She has her hands clasped in front of her and a concerned look on her face. Tom is in black, with one arm in front, his hand clenched in a fist next to Belle. He has a stern look on his face. They are in front of a dark green background. — Emmerdale's Belle and Tom King will be involved in a domestic abuse storyline. ITV

Chase continued: "You have to make sure that you do enough to honour it, but not enough to the point where it affects you as a person, because you obviously know that you're not that character.

"But there definitely are times where it's uncomfortable. At the end of the day, we know it has to be done because that's the only way we can really do this storyline."

As for the future of Tom and Belle, there's still a long way to go in the storyline.

"Unless there's an absolute brick wall that's before him, I think there's no barrier that's going to stop him from doing what he's doing," Chase admitted.

"The bar is going to probably keep rising as to what he will do. I think he will do relatively anything to get control over her."

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The RadioTimes.com Soap Awards 2024, sponsored by Inspired Villages, took place on 13th July. Find out more about the winners!

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Helen Daly

Helen DalyAssociate Editor

Helen Daly is the Associate Editor for Radio Times, overseeing new initiatives and commercial projects for the brand. She was previously Deputy TV Editor at a national publication. She has a BA in English Literature and an MA in Media & Journalism from Newcastle University.