Emmerdale viewers are furious following the dramatic axe attack on villain Tom King, leaving his fate uncertain. During Thursday’s episode, Tom, who had been abusing his wife Belle Dingle for months, violently attacked her after she tried to escape with a shotgun. In a desperate attempt to save herself, Belle defended herself by striking Tom in the back with an axe. As the episode ended, Tom lay motionless on the floor, sparking speculation over whether he survived.

With actor James Chase’s exit from the show confirmed, fans are unsure if Tom’s death marks his departure or if he’ll appear in future episodes. Friday’s episode will reveal the aftermath, including whether Belle will face any legal consequences. However, fans are not concerned with Tom’s fate for his sake but for Belle’s, hoping she receives justice after enduring his abuse.

Many viewers took to social media to express frustration over the possibility of Tom’s death, fearing it may rob Belle of the justice she deserves. Some viewers voiced their desire for a court case storyline, where Tom would face the full consequences of his actions, bringing closure to the domestic abuse plot. They argue that killing Tom off prematurely would diminish the impact of the storyline, as justice would not be served through legal means, which could provide hope to real-life survivors. Fans are now pleading with the show to avoid a rushed ending and instead show Tom paying for his crimes.