Emmerdale is set to tackle a new storyline that explores sexual violence.
The new storyline will start this week and see Charity Dingle, played by Emma Atkins, be sexually assaulted by Dr Caitlin Todd.
It comes as Todd has been blackmailing Charity in recent episodes.
Emma Atkins said it is “one of the most demanding and significant storylines” she has been involved with as Charity, reports Digital Spy.
She said: “This has been one of the most demanding and significant storylines I've had to navigate as Charity.
“We know her as a tough, resilient character, but this trauma will expose a deep, raw vulnerability that has been heartbreaking at times to play.
“I hope this storyline gives even one person the courage to speak out or helps others understand the quiet devastation of trauma.”
Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper said: “Charity's storyline will explore the impact of sexual violence, and though this heinous act is fundamentally about power, we'll explore the complexities of how Charity processes her trauma when the perpetrator is a woman.
“With little conversation surrounding female-on-female assault, we'll explore the overwhelming feelings of isolation many survivors experience and will examine the disparity between the legal term sexual assault and the fact that many women in Charity’s position feel this minimises what’s happened to them, because they feel like they've been raped.
“Though difficult viewing at times, Charity's resilience will inspire hope as she confronts what has happened to her.”
The new storyline will begin on Sunday, June 7.
Emmerdale's most emotional exits
Digital Spy reports that an Emmerdale spokesperson explained: “In the coming weeks, Charity will struggle to come to terms with the attack, having to choose between confiding in her loved ones or internalising the trauma.”
Newsquest has contacted ITV for comment.
Emmerdale and Coronation Street to see schedule changes this week
The news comes as Emmerdale, along with Coronation Street, is set to see a TV schedule change later this week.
ITV will air the FIFA Women's World Cup qualifier, which will see Spain and England battle it out on Friday, June 5, with coverage starting at 7.30pm and kick-off at 8pm.
This means the football match will run over the usual 8pm Emmerdale and 8.30pm Corrie slots.
Sometimes, schedule changes mean the missed episodes are released on a Sunday instead, and this is the case this week.
Emmerdale will be available to watch on Sunday, June 7 at 8pm and Corrie will follow it in the 8.30pm slot.
Emmerdale airs at 8pm on weeknights on ITV1 and STV or from 7am on ITVX, STV Player and YouTube.
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