fans are convinced they’ve cracked the mystery surrounding newcomer Rich Thompson’s real identity, suggesting he’s linked to a past Dales villain.
The character, portrayed by Joshua John, first appeared on the soap in January as Jacob Gallagher’s (Joe-Warren Plant) friend, causing quite a stir upon his arrival.
Jacob’s mother Leyla (Roxy Shahidi) discovered cocaine in his bag, leading to a tense confrontation at The Hide with Rich and other friends. Jacob denied ownership of the drugs, prompting Rich to admit they were his.
After Leyla departed, Rich attempted to flirt with Belle King (Eden Taylor-Draper), who promptly rebuffed him. Despite her teetotal status, Rich bought her a drink which was consumed by her cousin Noah Dingle (Jack Downham). Belle then called out Rich for his behaviour, leading him to leave.
However, events took a shocking turn when Noah was found wandering in the countryside, triggering a limousine crash into a lake that claimed three lives, including Leyla’s.
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Rich made his debut this year (Image: ITV)
Noah can’t recall the incident, but many villagers are blaming Rich, accusing him of spiking the drink Noah consumed, reports Leeds Live.
In truth, it was Noah’s half-brother Joe Tate (Ned Porteous) who drugged him. Noah’s mother Charity (Emma Atkins) later confronted Rich about the alleged spiking, but he vehemently denied any involvement, even suggesting they involve the police as he has nothing to hide.
In a shocking development that has fans buzzing, it appears Rich’s true parentage may be about to come to light, with viewers convinced his father is none other than Al Chapman (portrayed by Michael Wildman).
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Fans have ‘worked out’ his true identity (Image: ITV)
Avid watchers took to an Facebook fan group to voice their theories, with one member posting: “Joe’s such a creep. Poor Noah, so now we know it wasn’t Jacob’s rich friend who did it.” The conversation quickly turned to speculation over a DNA bombshell.
“Jacob’s friend looks like Al, anyone remember him? He was Chas’ ex fella,” one fan pointed out, sparking further discussion. Another suggested, “His secret son? ” while someone else recalled Al’s past indiscretions: “He was a dirty dog if I remember correctly so probably.”
Fans have predicted a DNA twist (Image: ITV)
And yet another fan added to the mix, “Anything can happen! “.
Long-time viewers will remember Al Chapman’s arrival in 2019 as Jessie Dingle’s (played by Sandra Marvin) former husband and Ellis Chapman’s (originally Asan N’Jie) dad. Al quickly became infamous for stirring up trouble in the Dales, including embroiling himself in a love scandal that had everyone talking.
Despite being married to Paddy (Dominic Brunt), Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter) fell into an affair with Al, who at the time was also engaged to Kerry Wyatt (Laura Norton). Al’s storyline came to a dramatic end in 2022 when he was accidentally shot dead by ‘s (Jeff Hordley) son Kyle, in what was meant to be a protective act.
airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm