Soap with most Ofcom complaints in 2024 revealed as over 1,100 furious fans slam ‘disgusting’ storyline
EMMERDALE has been revealed as the most complained about soap after hit by 1,193 Ofcom complaints over a harrowing dog abuse scene.
The ITV soap caused uproar amongst viewers with the sickening scenes that saw abusive vet Tom King (James Chase) harm his pet dog in an effort to bring his wife Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) back under his control.
In a hard to watch moment, he loomed over adorable pup Piper with a syringe in his hand.
He then bitterly said: “Don’t worry, this is going to hurt me more than it hurts you… then again, maybe not.”
The cameras cut away as the pup started whimpering.
Viewers were so distressed at the idea of the pet coming to harm, show bosses had to clarify the dog was OK on X (formerly Twitter).
“These scenes can be distressing to watch, but we want to remind you that Minnie (AKA Piper) is a very good actor and is always living her best life on set!
“We can confirm that no harm has come to her whatsoever.”
Ofcom revealed: “We received 1,193 complaints after Tom was seen injecting a dog with an unknown substance, as part of ongoing coercive control storyline.
“While we recognised that this scene was an uncomfortable watch for some viewers, no graphic detail of animal abuse was shown, and Tom’s actions were not portrayed in a positive light.
“We also took into account that this long-running storyline depicting coercive control in a relationship would have been within audience expectations of this soap, which often tackles challenging themes and issues.”
On trial for coercive controlling behavior and assault, Tom was determined to destroy is ex-wife Belle in court in Thursday’s episode of Emmerdale.
As the intense legal battle unfolded, Tom’s manipulative actions came under scrutiny, putting Belle’s courage to the test.
Belle bravely gave a powerful testimony, exposing the full extent of the abuse Tom subjected her to.
Her courage directly challenged his lies, as she stood strong against his false narrative.
Tom King was found guilty of coercive control and assault, receiving a three-year prison sentence.
Most complained about soap storylines
Over the years, all three of the main soaps have featured plots that have had even die-hard fans reaching for their phones and laptops so they can get in touch with Ofcom and complain. Here are just some of the most scandalous…
The outcome of the trial will have a long-term impact on Belle’s journey toward healing.
But there are happier times ahead for Belle as she will enjoy a joyful reunion with her beloved dog, Piper, this Christmas.
Other tv shows that have received the most complaints include Julia Hartley-Brewer’s interview with Dr Mustafa Barghouti with 17,366 complaints.
Good Morning Britain gained 16,851 complaints after an interview with Zarah Sultana, MP for Coventry South, was given ample opportunity to express her views and respond to the questions put to her.
Love Island generated 1,832 complaints about the behaviour of Joey Essex and Sean Stone.