fans are speculating that newcomer Dylan’s real father could be a former Dales icon, potentially returning after a 25-year absence.
Dylan, portrayed by Fred Kettle, made his debut on the soap earlier this year when April, played by Amelia Flanagan, befriended him during her time living rough. As viewers will remember, April disappeared from the well-known village on Christmas Day after a disagreement with her father Marlon, played by Mark Charnock.
It was later disclosed that April had been sleeping on the streets of Leeds city centre where she met Dylan and his close friend Becca, played by Becca Ashton. The pair took April under their care, particularly after discovering she was pregnant. Tragically, Becca was stabbed and subsequently died after pursuing a thief who stole their money.
Aware of April’s pregnancy, Dylan vowed to take care of her, seemingly resorting to sex work to provide for them. In a heartbreaking twist, the house where Dylan and April were staying was raided by the police, leading to Dylan’s arrest while April managed to escape.
However, in a distressing turn of events, she later gave birth to a stillborn baby in a public toilet. April has since returned to the Dales, much to her father Marlon’s relief, but she is finding it difficult to readjust to normal life following her traumatic experiences on the street, reports Leicestershire Live.
:
Dylan was back on the soap this week (Image: ITV)
In a shock twist, enthusiasts are buzzing with theories after Dylan returned to the village in Tuesday’s episode (March 4), visiting April at her home. Despite Marlon’s initial reservations, he allowed Dylan to stay overnight.
Fans on an Facebook fan page have been speculating that none other than Eli Dingle, played by Joseph Gilgun, might be Dylan’s real father. One fan commented, “Happy Dylan is in the village. I hope they get him some help. Love that kid.”
In the flurry of responses, fans suggested connections with village locals: “The question who is related to in the village.” Others were more convinced, stating, “Seems a nice lad. I think he will be related to the Dingles! Probably Eli.”
: [SOAP] [SOAP] [SOAP]
Fans reckon Eli Dingle could be his dad (Image: ITV)
More chimed in with hopes of Eli’s return, saying, “I would think it’s his son and he will track down the father so maybe Eli will come back.” And, “Yes I hope Eli returns! I loved him.”
Joseph Gilgun’s portrayal of Eli Dingle, ‘s (Mark Charnock) younger brother, began in 2006 and quickly turned the character into an audience favourite.
Among his major plot involvements were an affair with cousin Debbie (Charley Webb) and aiding in Alice’s (Ursula Holden-Gill) suicide. Eli made an exit from the village in 2010 following a robbery storyline.
airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm