Emmerdale spoilers follow.
Suspicions are high on Emmerdale next week when Joe Tate shows some unexpected kindness towards Lydia Dingle. The character, who has a knack for scheming, makes the surprise move in the aftermath of Butler’s Farm changing hands.
Last week’s scenes saw Moira Dingle signing the property over to the Tates, and it has now been confirmed that Joe ultimately hands control of it over to Robert Sugden and his partner, Aaron Dingle.
ITV
ITV
Related: Emmerdale star Will Ash confirms new project away from the soap
Viewers will soon see the Dingle clan making a fresh start at The Woolpack, only to be wary when Joe walks in and apologises to Lydia for the recent tensions between them – and offers her a pay rise.
Even Joe’s mother Kim is suspicious of his actions, but she’s unaware that he’s made a big discovery…
“Joe rarely does anything without an ulterior motive,” our Emmerdale source teases. “When he offers an olive branch to Lydia, there are some who dare to hope that he’s building bridges between the Tates and the Dingles.
“After all, Lydia has worked loyally for Kim at Home Farm for years now. Unbeknownst to everyone, though, Joe has made a big discovery that’s driving his latest actions. What is he up to – and where does Lydia fit into it all?”
ITV
Related: Best streaming services UK 2026 — including Disney Plus, Netflix, iPlayer and Apple TV
Someone who’s very much in the loop is Joe’s returning adoptive dad, Graham Foster. When he confronts Joe with full knowledge of what he’s up to, how will Joe react?
Meanwhile, Moira and her clan losing Butler’s Farm might be a seismic move, but it does at least make for a major new chapter for Robert and Aaron.
“The Sugdens have always been at the centre of our village, having been the original farming family when Emmerdale was first created,” producer Laura Shaw said.
ITV
Related: Emmerdale star Adam Thomas flooded with support as he breaks down in emotional moment on air
“This return to the farm’s roots is a powerful moment, echoing the early drama that unfolded when Annie Sugden and her sons, Jack and Joe, farmed the land. Taking over the tenancy, grandson Robert wants to do his best and make his dad proud.
“With his loyal partner Aaron, they are ready for this new chapter and committed to making the farm thrive. Farming remains a vital presence in Emmerdale, providing a daily dose of excitement and fresh air for our audience.”
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
Read more Emmerdale spoilers on our dedicated homepage
For exclusive soap star interviews, gossip, spoilers and theories every week, don’t miss the Soap Scoop podcast from Inside Soap magazine. The latest episode delves into next week’s soap spoilers for EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale – and also includes a deep dive into what Weatherfield newcomer Jodie Ramsey is really up to!