Emmerdale confirms modern slavery storyline as Bear’s fate is finally revealed

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Emmerdale are set to explore modern slavery in a new storyline for Bear Wolf (Joshua Richards).

The character vanished suddenly during the summer, informing his son, Paddy Dingle (Dominic Brunt), that he would be visiting friends in Ireland.

Recent episodes revealed that he didn’t actually travel to Ireland, and people are now worried about his health and state of mind.

On Monday, a special episode will show what Bear has been up to recently and explain how he ended up in this difficult situation.

When Paddy and his wife, Mandy (played by Lisa Riley), start looking for him, they don’t realize he’s actually hiding very close by – in a barn near their village. We’ll see flashbacks revealing how he ended up there, taken in by people who initially seemed kind and offered him work and a place to stay on their farm.

Things quickly go wrong, and he finds himself completely controlled by those who have captured him. Weakened and hurt, he’s unable to break free.

Richards discussed his character’s storyline and the shocking reality of modern slavery, explaining, “Many people are unaware, but slavery still exists today – and in some cases, it’s actually thriving.”

This isn’t just happening in faraway or unfamiliar places, or solely through the actions of criminal groups exploiting migrants. It’s occurring right here, close to home.

People who are struggling – those facing hardship, mental health challenges, disabilities, loneliness, or old age – are especially vulnerable to being targeted and exploited by criminals. Society often overlooks these individuals, making them easy prey.

I’m thrilled and humbled to be involved in this effort, with the hope of raising awareness and exposing the horrific practice of human trafficking.

Producer Laura Shaw revealed more about who is holding the contestants captive, explaining that while the show is set in a beautiful farming and rural area, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Just like any setting, the countryside can hide dangerous secrets and a darker side of life.

From the moment Ray and Celia arrived in Emmerdale, it was obvious they were untrustworthy. We’ve already seen them manipulate April and Dylan, but this special episode, focusing on Bear and his experience with modern slavery, truly shows how cruel and controlling these kinds of criminals can be.

Bear is stuck in a difficult situation, and as the story unfolds, we gradually learn how he ended up there.

The writer doesn’t believe viewers will ever truly warm up to the character Ray. However, she hopes this episode will show moments that suggest he’s also a victim of circumstance, caught in a difficult situation he didn’t create.

As a movie buff, I’ve been really thankful for The Salvation Army’s help with Bear’s storyline – it’s added so much depth. And honestly, their support has been just as crucial in weaving in the bigger picture – the complex story of April and Dylan and their involvement with county lines drug trafficking. It’s been amazing to see how everything connects, and The Salvation Army’s contribution has been key to making it all feel real.

I’m so impressed with how The Salvation Army helped Emmerdale tackle those really difficult, but sadly common, issues we see happening around us. Their guidance was clearly invaluable in making sure the show portrayed things accurately and with sensitivity.

Will Paddy be able to rescue Bear?

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1. Stream on ITVX.

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2025-11-08 00:37