Emmerdale viewers have expressed frustration over the ITV soap’s latest workplace bullying storyline, with some threatening to switch off entirely amid growing backlash online.
The plot centres on trainee doctor Jacob Sugden, played by Joe-Warren Plant, and Dr Caitlin Todd, portrayed by Caroline Harker, whose increasingly hostile behaviour towards her junior colleague has sparked strong viewer reaction.
Tensions have escalated throughout recent episodes, with Dr Todd persistently criticising and undermining Jacob.
The situation intensified further when she moved into the village, extending the conflict beyond the hospital and into his personal life.
Some Emmerdale viewers have expressed frustration over the latest workplace bullying storyline
|ITV
Audience reaction on social media has been largely negative, with many fans labelling it one of the show’s weakest storylines in recent memory.
In Monday’s episode, Jacob briefly believed the ordeal was over after witnessing what he assumed was Dr Todd’s retirement speech at the hospital.
Attempting to make peace, he presented her with flowers ahead of her father’s funeral, expressing hope they could move forward.
However, she discarded the bouquet immediately after he left.
ITV's Emmerdale is under fire from fans over the controversial plot
|ITV Emmerdale
Later, while shopping with Vanessa Woodfield, Dr Todd issued a chilling warning, suggesting she might now use her free time to make Jacob’s life “as hellish” as their working relationship had been.
She also hinted at having damaging information, claiming she knows baby Leyla’s biological mother is Charity Dingle rather than Sarah Sugden.
The storyline has prompted a wave of criticism online, with viewers voicing their frustration.
One wrote: “I won’t watch again until Dr Todd is gone.”
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Tensions have escalated throughout recent episodes
|ITV Emmerdale
Another said: “Can’t stand her! Putting me off watching.”
“She is making me want to switch off. She is ruining the show for me," a third added, as a fourth said "the writers have lost the plot."
Others were equally critical, with one viewer commenting: “Worst storyline ever. Hope it’s over soon.”
The latest episode comes just days after Emmerdale star James Hooton addressed rumours he is leaving the ITV soap, confirming he is not departing and remains under contract until March 2027.
The actor, who has played Sam Dingle for 26 years, took to social media to shut down false reports suggesting his character was being written out.
“Hi, everyone. Just a quick message to say I have NOT left Emmerdale!” he wrote on Facebook, adding he has “no intention of leaving” unless the show decides otherwise.
He also joked about repeated hoaxes surrounding his character, referencing previous fake claims, including rumours he had died.
Mr Hooton said online stories had wrongly suggested his exit, reassuring fans there was no truth to the reports.
James Hooton has confirmed his future on the ITV soap
|ITV
He first joined Emmerdale in 1995, briefly left in 1998, and returned in 2000, remaining a regular ever since.
Fans responded with messages of support, with many saying the show “wouldn’t be the same” without Sam Dingle.
Others praised his long-running role, calling him an “anchor” of the soap alongside other key characters.
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