Emmerdale Tom King actor James Chase's real life from past roles to 'unusual' hobby

James Chase has become a familiar face on ITV's Emmerdale, portraying the character Tom King since he joined the cast in April last year. His arrival has certainly stirred up the drama in the village.

Previously, the role of Tom King was played by actor Mark Flanagan from 2012 to 2013. When James secured the part, he expressed his excitement on social media, saying: "Absolutely buzzing to finally announce that I'm playing Tom King in @emmerdale! ! I want to thank my incredible agents at @redtalent @kelseybing @cheekychappy for getting me in the door, and the awesome casting department for giving me this opportunity."

He also shared his experience of joining the show: "It's been crazy fun already filming this last month, with everyone cast and crew alike humbly welcoming me into the Emmerdale family. Tune into to ITV 1 on 27th April. Bring the Popcorn."

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Since taking over the role, James's character Tom has rekindled a romance with Belle Dingle, leading to their marriage and moving in together. However, the storyline takes a dark turn as Tom begins to emotionally abuse and control Belle, causing concern among viewers for her wellbeing.

Career before Emmerdale

Despite his villainous role, James is said to be quite the opposite of his character in real life. Before his breakthrough on Emmerdale, James had been building his career with smaller roles on television and voiceover projects.

James Chase made his first Emmerdale appearance as villainous Caleb Miligan in December 2022, joining his on-screen brother Cain Dingle as a newcomer to the family.

The actor has a rich CV, with roles in Andrew Lloyd Webber's stage production of Robin Hood, alongside parts in The Beginning and End of Everything and Art of Love.

James ‘quirky’ hobby and private life

When not acting, James lends his voice to various projects, including for the Saint Kitts and Nevis investment programme in the Caribbean.

Despite his Emmerdale fame, James prefers to maintain a degree of privacy, keeping his personal life under wraps.

What we do know is that the self-professed "all around goofball" is based in Leeds and enjoys collecting Funko Pops, as evidenced by an Instagram post earlier this year.

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