Emmerdale fans praise Paddy suicide story for shining light on men mental health

Emmerdale fans have heaped praise on the ITV soap following the news that Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt) will attempt to take his own life next month, with one branding the storyline ‘heartbreaking but relevant’.

Paddy, as viewers know, has been visibly struggling with his mental health, following his discovery that beloved wife Chas (Lucy Pargeter) had been having an affair with mortal enemy Al Chapman (Michael Wildman).

The popular character will, this week, suddenly leave the village without telling his friends or family where he is or where he intends to go. After some time, he will be found staying locally in a guest house, but it soon becomes clear that he is really struggling – and doesn’t plan on reconnecting with his loved ones for a while.

In scenes set to air next month, Paddy will begin to say veiled goodbyes to family and friends, before leaving the village with the aim of ending his life in an emotional and hard-hitting storyline.

Discussing the story, actor Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy, said: ‘It is a huge honour and a great responsibility to be portraying this storyline. It’s an inherent problem in today’s society that most men don’t talk enough about their problems. 

‘We bottle them up, we don’t want to bother anyone, we become embarrassed, we feel we should be strong and not show weakness. 

‘If this story can shine a light on the issue or make even a small change to someone’s outlook or viewpoint, then it will have been worth it.’

Emmerdale is working with Samaritans and Andy’s Man Club on the storyline, which was officially announced earlier today, receiving an overwhelming response from viewers, who heaped praise on the serial drama for tackling such an important subject.

‘Heartbreaking but very very relevant,’ said one viewer. ‘We need men to open up more & talk. It’s okay to talk. It’ll be a tough watch but good on @emmerdale for doing this #itsokaynottobeokay’

Another wrote: ‘Very proud of and grateful @emmerdale @dominicbrunt – Thank you for work closely with @samaritans and @andysmanclubuk to help show Paddy’s journey, thousands of men unfortunately go through this every year. Let’s shine a light and help those who struggle.’

‘Such an upsetting and Heartbreaking storyline for Paddy,’ added one viewer. ‘But also sadly so very common especially for us men who struggle to open up on our feelings and our MH.’

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7: 30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

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