Emmerdale spoilers follow. This article includes discussion of sexual assault, which some readers may find upsetting.
Emmerdale star Louise Jameson has revealed that her character Mary Goskirk will support Vanessa Woodfield in the wake of her ex-wife Charity Dingle's sexual assault by Dr Todd.
In an episode airing last night, Charity was subjected to a devastating sexual assault by Dr Todd, in a truly dark turn for the blackmail storyline that has been playing out over the last few weeks.
Sitting down with Inside Soap magazine, Louise reveals that Mary will provide vital support in the aftermath of the events.
Related: Emmerdale announces Charity's devastating new story
"All I can tell you is her shoulders are going to have to grow, as Vanessa might need them to cry on in the aftermath of what’s in store for her and Dr Todd," Louise says. "It’s going to get really dark, it’s a very bold story and Caroline Harker [aka Dr Todd] is marvellous."
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The storyline aims to raise awareness for female-on-female assaults, examining the legal difficulties that follow such cases.
"This has been one of the most demanding and significant storylines I've had to navigate as Charity," said Emma Atkins, who plays Charity. "We know her as a tough, resilient character, but this trauma will expose a deep, raw vulnerability that has been heartbreaking at times to play.
Related: Emmerdale's Charity betrays family in Dr Todd plot
"I hope this storyline gives even one person the courage to speak out or helps others understand the quiet devastation of trauma."
Show producer Sophie Roper added: "Charity's storyline will explore the impact of sexual violence, and though this heinous act is fundamentally about power, we'll explore the complexities of how Charity processes her trauma when the perpetrator is a woman.
"With little conversation surrounding female-on-female assault, we'll explore the overwhelming feelings of isolation many survivors experience and will examine the disparity between the legal term sexual assault and the fact that many women in Charity’s position feel this minimises what’s happened to them, because they feel like they've been raped."
Read the full interview with Louise in the new issue of Inside Soap magazine, out tomorrow (9 June).
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
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