Emmerdale Tom King star’s new role on rival soap ‘revealed’ after exit

Emmerdale’s James Chase could be set for a stint on a rival soap, following his village exit.

The actor made his soap debut in 2023 as the on-screen son of villainous Carl King (Tom Lister). And soon enough, Tom struck up a relationship with Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper).

However, over the past year, the soap has aired a harrowing domestic abuse storyline. Fans have watched in horror as Tom made Belle’s life hell, gaslighting her and controlling her every move.

One incident saw Belle attack Tom with an axe in self-defence, and despite being hesitant at first, Belle reported Tom to the police for his abuse over the past few months. Thinking he was able to get away with it, Tom was quick to dispose of his tablet, which contained incriminating evidence.

But this week, justice finally came calling for Tom – much to the delight of soap fans. Despite being arrested and charged, Tom later decided to go on the run and flee the country. He soon got what was coming to him though, as the cops were able to track him down.

Now, with actor James’ soap exit looming, it seems a stint on a rival soap could just be around the corner. In exclusive odds provided by Betway Casino, the booked have chalked up James at 10/1 odds to join EastEnders. For a role on Corrie, the odds are 20/1.

What’s more, a PR expert also pointed out how another soap would be a perfect fit for James – and he could even become a part of an iconic family on one of the programme’s.

“James’ upcoming exit from the Dales opens the door for a wealth of exciting opportunities,” Dom Aldworth, Head of Brand Marketing at Slingo, said. He then shared how joining a rival soap “seems like a logical next step, especially for an actor who’s already shown his ability to anchor compelling storylines”.

And Dom reckons EastEnders would be great for James as it “offers the chance to lean into grittier, high-stakes drama”. He explained: “James’ natural intensity could see him playing a mysterious newcomer in Albert Square, maybe someone tied to the Mitchells or the Panesars.”

ITV’s other soap Coronation Street could also welcome James to its cast, with Dom calling it a “fantastic fit”. The expert said: “He could thrive in its mix of relatable, down-to-earth narratives and larger-than-life characters. Perhaps he could stir things up by joining the Barlows or the Platts, adding a fresh dynamic to these iconic families.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm