Gobsmacked Emmerdale fans work out where they've seen Joe Tate's doctor before
Emmerdale viewers were left distracted as Joe Tate's doctor arrived at Home Farm to check on him
Emmerdale fans have been left stunned after recognising the actor playing Joe Tate's doctor.
Joe, portrayed by Ned Porteous, made a dramatic comeback to the Dales in December, six years after his departure, and he's already stirring up a storm among the villagers. But there's more to Joe than meets the eye - he's harbouring a significant health secret.
Viewers have seen him popping painkillers frequently to alleviate symptoms, including chest pains, but he's yet to reveal the nature of his ailment. Moreover, since his return, Joe has been focusing on his brother Noah Dingle (Jack Downham).
According to Joe, he's keen to forge a bond with Noah, but their mum Charity (Emma Atkins) is sceptical and suspects an ulterior motive.
Joe's doctor made his debut this week (Image: ITV)
Earlier this month, the plot thickened when Noah was found drugged and mysteriously lying in the middle of the road, leading to a massive limo crash. In Wednesday's episode (February 27), Ross Barton (Michael Parr), convinced that Joe had drugged Noah, attacked Joe and locked him in a barn, reports Leicestershire Live.
Joe managed to escape and collapsed just after dialling his doctor, pleading for urgent help. Dr Crowley then arrived and whisked him away to his room without anyone noticing. In his room, a mysterious black case left by the doctor sat on the bed. Inside was an item that had potentially saved Joe's life.
The actor is a familiar face (Image: ITV)
And while this plot twist intrigued Emmerdale fans, many were left puzzled trying to place where they've seen Dr Crowley's portrayer before. Discussions bubbled over on an Emmerdale Facebook fan group, with several followers recognising he'd popped up in multiple soaps, including EastEnders.
One fan recalled, "The guy who was with Joe wasn't he in Coronation Street too? Face very familiar," while another agonised, "Been racking my brain as well on where I've seen him before." Luckily, a third chimed in to solve the mystery: "The one playing the Dr? If so then he was in Eastenders as Roxy Mitchell's fianceĚ."
He previously starred in EastEnders
Actor James Hillier, who's gracing the Dales as Joe Tate's saviour, is not new to TV drama. Cast your minds back to 2007, and you'll remember his turn on BBC's EastEnders as Damian, Roxy Mitchell's (played by Rita Simons) other half.
But that's not all James has under his belt; he's also turned heads in The Crown's initial two seasons, showcasing his talent on Netflix's hit show.
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm
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