Note: This article contains discussion of sensitive subject matter such as modern slavery.
Emmerdale spoilers follow.
Emmerdale star Joshua Richards has revealed how the events in tonight's episode will affect Bear Wolf going forward. As the character finds himself in the middle of a terrible situation, can he do anything to escape?
The character left the Dales earlier this year following a falling-out with son Paddy Dingle, though it soon became apparent that all was not well after Paddy discovered that his dad was not in Ireland visiting a mate like he'd claimed.
It was eventually revealed that Bear was being exploited by Celia Daniels and her adopted son Ray Walters, who are running an illegal camp which forces vulnerable people into labour in exchange for shelter.
Speaking ahead of the latest instalment of the ITV soap, which sees Bear's close friend Anya tragically pass away, Richards explained that his character will be forlorn at the helplessness of his situation.
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"Bear is going through a very difficult time in his life," said the actor. "He’s possibly confused, not very well and probably drug-addled and not knowing exactly where or what he’s doing.
"I think he’s too far gone in his mind - he’s decided that he’s already walked out the door and he’ll never be coming back. Bear is absolutely horrified [by Anya's death] because he’s been told by Ray, who he trusts with his life, that everything is fine."
"Initially he gets quite angry, disappointed and somewhat saddened. Because he’s been manipulated very heavily by Ray, he almost forgives him," added the star, who has played Bear since 2019.
"I think there was a glimmer of light for him [with Anya] - it was almost like a reminder of little Eve, his granddaughter. [Anya was an] almost innocent soul [who] was shining in the darkness and he recognised it."
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Following Anya's death, Bear will be forced to dig her grave as part of a makeshift funeral, with Richards explaining that the emotional toll will be very difficult for his character to carry.
"Initially, [he's] horrified. But then he's determined to make it as best as he can possibly make it for Anya," said the actor. "For Bear, it’s a very poignant and difficult thing to do. But of course he wanted to do right by her and show some kind of respect."
"He sings a little song to her - a song he comforts her with when she comes back after having a traumatic time, then he sings it over her grave. In a way he’s singing it to himself," he continued.
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Despite the horrifying events, Bear is still blinded to Ray's true depravity and evilness, with Richards explaining that his character's issues with his own son has led to him misplacing his trust in Ray.
"I think, because in a way he’s taken himself away from the love of his own son and his family, somewhere deep within him, because he feels rejected, that Ray is a surrogate son to him," he explained.
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
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