Emmerdale Shake-Up: Gabby Thomas Replaced by Two New Characters
A New Era at Dale View
Emmerdale fans tuning into Friday’s (October 24) early ITVX episode have been treated to a major shake-up in the village’s living arrangements. Following Gabby Thomas’s (Rosie Bentham) shock split from Vinny Dingle (Bradley Johnson), the show has wasted no time filling the emotional and physical space she left behind — with two familiar faces stepping in to change Vinny’s life completely.
After walking out on Vinny and taking her young son, Thomas, back to Home Farm, Gabby left her ex-husband rattling around Dale View alone. But Kim Tate (Claire King), ever the queen of control, wasn’t about to let that situation linger for long.
Kim’s Big Decision
In Friday’s episode, Kim approaches Vinny at the café and suggests he must be “rattling around” the empty house. Though Vinny insists he can manage on his own and keep up with the rent, Kim clearly has other plans. Without consulting him, she reveals that she’s already advertised for new tenants — and two familiar names immediately step forward.
When Lewis Barton overhears the conversation, he suggests that he and his brother Ross take the spare rooms. By the end of the day, the Barton brothers have officially moved into Dale View, transforming Vinny’s once-quiet home into a bustling house-share.
Gabby’s Reaction — and Jealousy
Gabby doesn’t take the news well. When she discovers her ex enjoying drinks with Lewis and Ross at The Woolpack, she’s visibly irritated. Her frustration spills over when she confronts Kim, fuming, “I don’t want him out just laughing, drinking and happy!”
It’s clear that while Gabby ended her marriage, she’s not entirely ready to see Vinny move on — or to see him surrounded by new friends. Kim and Dawn Fletcher (Olivia Bromley) are left trying to talk her down as she wrestles with her unresolved feelings.
Fans Speculate: Vinny and Lewis Connection Ahead?
The new living arrangement has set the stage for potential new storylines — and fans are already buzzing with theories. Many believe the move could mark the start of a deeper connection between Vinny and Lewis Barton, especially as Vinny continues to explore his sexuality following months of inner turmoil.
Bradley Riches, who plays Lewis, recently hinted at what’s to come, telling Inside Soap at the awards show, “It’s having someone from the queer community helping Vinny and saying, ‘It’s not weird to think these things — everyone’s story is different.’”
He added, “It’s very exciting to see how that friendship blossoms. Every good relationship is built on friendship, so it’s a good starting point.”
What’s Next for Dale View?
With Gabby still struggling to let go, Kim quietly orchestrating village life, and the Barton brothers settling in, Dale View has become the newest hub of drama in Emmerdale. Whether Vinny’s connection with Lewis remains platonic or turns romantic, one thing’s certain — Gabby’s exit has set the stage for fresh stories, new dynamics, and perhaps even unexpected love.