Emmerdale has announced a special episode as Cain Dingle’s cancer diagnosis is confirmed. In scenes set to air next week, Cain is told he has prostate cancer. Following the recent Corriedale crossover event, fans were left feeling worried about Cain’s health after he was admitted to hospital.
In the hospital, Cain was told that he could have cancer after doctors had found “a sizeable mass” and that he would need immediate tests.
In next week’s episodes, Cain is told he has aggressive, yet localised, prostate cancer. Overwhelmed by the diagnosis and what it entails, Cain leaves his consultation abruptly.
The special episode will focus on Cain’s inner thoughts, telling the story from the character’s perspective.
Struggling to process the news, Cain’s mounting anger and denial cause him to clash with those who cross his path, as he wants to be left alone with his inner demons.
As if his diagnosis wasn’t enough, Cain’s wife Moira has just been charged with double murder.
ITV
Related: Emmerdale’s Laurel Thomas to make a major confession in Ray’s death aftermath
For the episodes, the soap has worked alongside the charity Prostate Cancer UK in order to give a realistic and authentic depiction of Cain’s cancer journey.
Speaking about the new storyline, Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “Cain instinctively felt like the right character to tell this story. He is a complex man that doesn’t normally talk about his feelings or channel them in a helpful way.
“It’s important men are encouraged to get checked, but we also want to sensitively explore the possible side effects patients may have, but don’t necessarily talk about.”
She added: “It’s also a love story for Cain and Moira as they navigate the tough times ahead as a married couple.”
Cain actor Jeff Hordley said: “I feel really honoured to be given this storyline and I am excited for the challenges it is already throwing at me.”
ITV
Related: Best streaming services UK 2025
He continued: “This is the first proper illness my character, Cain, has been given and I want to play my part in making sure the audience can relate to the journey so many families unfortunately have to navigate.”
Laura Kerby, chief executive at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Storylines like Cain’s have a huge impact in reaching men and families up and down the country and putting prostate cancer, and men’s risk, on their radar.”
In the coming months, the soap is set to explore how Cain and his family, friends and loved ones try to come to terms with the diagnosis and what impact it will have on their future.
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 reacts to the big revelation over who killed Ray in Emmerdale.
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.