Moira Dingle took shocking revenge to protect her son, Matty Barton, in Emmerdale. Recently, newcomer Josh Hope escalated his grudge against Matty by instigating a brawl at the Hide and causing an incident where Samson was shoved into Matty, who was holding a knife. As a result, Matty has been arrested and faces serious prison time for allegedly stabbing Samson.
In the July 18 episode, Amy and Moira visit Matty in prison and are disturbed to see his deteriorating condition. Matty hasn’t showered in days and is missing his medication, indicating his distress.
Meanwhile, in the village, Samson prepares for work when his uncle, Cain Dingle, visits to discuss the stabbing. Cain suspects Josh’s involvement and urges Samson to clear Mattyβs name. However, Samson, fearing Josh, sticks to his story.
Outraged by Samson’s refusal to tell the truth, Moira confronts him at the Woolpack. She asks Mackenzie to distract Charity while she traps Samson in the toilets. Moira aggressively presses Samson’s stab wound, warning him that the pain will worsen unless he tells the truth. Samson’s cries for help draw Charity and Mackenzie, who intervene. Despite Mackenzieβs plea that Moira’s actions aren’t helping Matty, Moira implores Samson to admit what really happened, emphasizing Matty’s gentle nature and fear.
Samson worsens the situation by expressing hope that Matty never gets out of prison, provoking Moira further. Mackenzie has to physically restrain her from attacking Samson again.
Back at home, Cain warns Moira that intimidating Samson could jeopardize Mattyβs case. Moira retorts that Cain should have taken action himself and criticizes his lack of support, accusing him of being a shadow of his former fearless self. She tells Cain that he is weak and useless to her now, leaving their relationship in turmoil.
The storyline is set to continue with Cain visiting Matty in prison to offer some difficult advice, hinting at more emotional and intense scenes to come.