Emmerdale exit for Kim Tate as fans 'work out' killer twist

Emmerdale fans are speculating that a major departure could be on the horizon for one of the soap's most beloved characters.

Viewers of the popular ITV soap have been speculating how iconic character Kim Tate, played by Claire King, might leave the Dales. The character has been a staple of the show since her first appearance in 1989, and her fiery personality and dramatic storylines have made her a fan favourite.

Kim first left the show in 1999, but returned two decades later to continue stirring up drama in the village. Over the years, she has been at the centre of some of the soap's most memorable plotlines.

In addition to her dramatic storylines, Kim's romantic exploits have also been a source of intrigue for viewers. Kim's love life has never been short of excitement due to her affair with David Glover.

But now, fans are bracing themselves for what might be the eventual departure of their beloved Kim from Emmerale's screens. On Reddit, discussions are rife as fans speculate about her potential farewell, reports the Mirror.

One particular fan pondered on the social platform: "When the time does eventually come... how do you think they will kill off the legendary Kim Tate? Will it be some explosive fire/ explosion stunt, a murder/ who dunnit, or an illness situation? ".

The same enthusiast also shared their own vision for Kims departure: "I personally would love to see an illness storyline for her as Claire King is an amazing actress, possibly where Kim finds out secretly and doesn't tell her family for a while. And she only told her closest friends (Lydia and Mary) until one day she collapses while riding one of her horses out in the field."

"And they launch a search to find her after Lydia confesses to Will what's been going on, leading to a matter of time quest to find her before things get bad. Not quite sure what illness I would choose but I'd like a progressive one somewhat like the MND storyline in Coronation Street."

Other enthusiasts joined the conversation with their own predictions. One fan speculated: "Murder suicide. She has to go out with a BLAZE of glory and she's sworn that when Emmerdale ends, she's ending with acting."

Another added their thoughts: "Unfortunately age is against us all I think I will be illness if anything that ends her.. just please give us as many years possible first and don't let it be rushed."

The discussion follows the news that actress Claire King will be engaging with fans at an upcoming soap event. Claire is set to appear at the inaugural live Emmerdale 'audience with...' event, where she'll discuss her experiences on the popular ITV show.

Scheduled to take place at the Weetwood Hotel in Leeds, Claire King expressed her excitement: "Kim Tate has been and remains an incredible part of my life, the chance to play such a powerful (if not tricky! ) character is a gift for any actor and I feel very lucky to do so."

"I am rather fond of her to be honest and can't wait to see what she gets up to next. To be given the chance to meet the programme's fans face-to-face in our home county of Yorkshire for such a special event is fantastic."

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm