viewers are convinced that Eric Pollard is on the brink of being written out of the show, and they believe they’ve pieced together the clues.
The iconic character, portrayed by Chris Chittell, has been a fixture in the soap since 1986, making him the longest-standing cast member in the soap’s 52-year run.
Throughout his tenure, Eric has been central to countless storylines in the Dales, including the arrival of his estranged son David Metcalfe, his role as one of the original villains, and his marriage to Val Pollard (Charlie Hardwick).
However, last year saw the character diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and recent episodes have hinted at a decline in his health.
With news that Chris’ real-life wife Lesley Dunlop, who plays his on-screen partner Brenda Walker, has exited the soap, fans are speculating that he will soon follow. In a heart-wrenching twist, viewers suspect Eric will meet a tragic end, reports .
:
Eric’s a legend on the soap (Image: ITV)
Last week, Eric confessed to Brenda that his recent illness was due to new medication for his Parkinson’s Disease. Despite this, he downplayed his symptoms, insisting he didn’t want to be a burden.
In an emotional development, Eric proposed to Brenda. This week, the couple began planning their nuptials, with Eric expressing his wish for a Christmas wedding.
Initially, Brenda was taken aback by the impromptu proposal, yet she was overjoyed when Eric later presented her with an engagement ring he claimed to have acquired at an auction. However, devotees are now speculating that a tragic wedding fate awaits Eric.
: [SOAP] [SOAP] [SOAP]
Fans reckon their wedding will end in death (Image: ITV)
On X, which used to be known as Twitter, viewers aired their predictions about his potential demise. One viewer remarked: “Eric asking what could go wrong with a Christmas wedding, this is soapland so death.”
Another hypothesized: “Heart attack at the altar.” A third contributed, positing: “Looks like there’s a Xmas wedding for Brenda and Eric too. Have a feeling Eric might die then.”
Yet another commented: “Brenda knows Eric must be going soon, she feels he’s just formalising everything for the end.”
airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm
If you love your soaps pick up Love TV’s Best of British Soaps, packed with all your favourite characters and storylines. As well as interviews and quizzes. Click to buy or it’s on sale at participating retailers.