Emmerdale fans have predicted that newcomer Dylan could be a member of the Dingle family, as they have ‘worked out’ a heartbreaking connection involving the legend
Emmerdale viewers are speculating that the real father of newcomer Dylan could be a former Dales legend, potentially returning after a 25-year absence.
Dylan, played by Fred Kettle, first appeared on the soap earlier this year when teenager April, portrayed by Amelia Flanagan, befriended him during her time living on the streets.
As fans may remember, April disappeared from the village on Christmas Day after an argument with her father Marlon, played by Mark Charnock. It was later revealed that April had been sleeping rough in Leeds city centre where she met Dylan and his close friend Becca, played by Becca Ashton.
After learning that April was pregnant, Dylan and Becca took her under their care. However, tragedy struck when Becca was fatally stabbed while pursuing a thief who had stolen their money.
Despite this, Dylan promised to look after April, seemingly resorting to sex work to provide for them. In a heartbreaking turn of events, the house where Dylan and April were staying was raided by the police, leading to Dylan’s arrest and April’s escape.
Sadly, April later gave birth to a stillborn baby in a public toilet. She has since returned to the Dales, much to her father Marlon’s relief, but is finding it difficult to adjust to life after her traumatic experiences on the streets, reports Leicestershire Live.
In a surprising turn of events on Tuesday’s episode (March 4), Dylan made his way back to Emmerdale, visiting April in her home after she reached out. Initially reluctant, Marlon gave the green light for Dylan to stay overnight.
But now, fans are buzzing with theories of a DNA twist that could link Dylan to a Dingle family icon. On an Emmerdale fan page on Facebook, one viewer expressed their delight: “Happy Dylan is in the village. I hope they get him some help. Love that kid.”
The speculation didn’t stop there, as fans in the comments section suggested that Eli Dingle, played by Joseph Gilgun, might be Dylan’s real father. One fan speculated, “The question who is related to in the village.”
Another added, “Seems a nice lad. I think he will be related to the Dingles! Probably Eli.” A third fan proposed, “I would think it’s his son and he will track down the father so maybe Eli will come back.” While another hoped for Eli’s return, saying, “Yes I hope Eli returns! I loved him.”
Joseph Gilgun brought Eli Dingle to life on the show starting in 2006. As Marlon Dingle’s younger brother, Eli quickly became a fan favourite and was central to many major storylines, including a controversial relationship with cousin Debbie and involvement in Alice’s assisted suicide. Eli left the village in 2010 following a robbery, leaving viewers wondering if he might make a dramatic comeback.
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm
