For nearly three decades, Mark Charnock has been a familiar face in Emmerdale, winning over viewers as the lovable and often unlucky chef Marlon Dingle. Since joining the show in 1996, his character has survived heartbreak, tragedy, and more than a few Dingle family dramas. But away from the cameras, Mark’s real life couldn’t be more different — quieter, grounded, and full of warmth.

A Life Far from the Dales

While Marlon’s life in the village has been anything but peaceful, Mark prefers to keep things calm off-screen. The actor is famously private, rarely discussing his personal life, but it’s understood that he’s married with one child and lives in North Yorkshire with his family.

His closest companion, though, might just be his beloved Golden Retriever, Freddie. Fans have often spotted the pair in cosy snapshots, relaxing on the sofa — Mark in his trademark chunky knit jumper, Freddie gazing affectionately at the camera. It’s a side of the actor that fans rarely see: peaceful, content, and far removed from Marlon’s constant chaos.

Cast Friendships and On-Set Fun

Mark has built strong friendships during his nearly 30 years on the soap, often sharing light-hearted glimpses of life behind the scenes. He’s particularly close to Gemma Atkinson, who played Carly Hope between 2015 and 2017.

The pair’s playful friendship has produced some hilarious social media moments — including one photo of Gemma trapped in an inflatable mattress, which Mark captioned: “When you go to run lines in Gemma’s dressing room and are greeted by this #idiot.”

He’s also been spotted enjoying nights out with Michelle Hardwick (Vanessa), Danny Miller (Aaron), and Amy Walsh (Tracy), proving that the Dingle family bond extends well beyond the set.

A Private Passion for Gardening and Horror

Away from acting, Mark is a man of many hobbies. He’s an avid gardener, affectionately referring to his vegetable patch as his “little gang.” His Instagram feed often shows off lush greens and blooming flowers, a stark contrast to the chaos of Emmerdale village.

He’s also a self-confessed horror enthusiast. Mark has amassed an impressive library of spooky fiction, including A House of Ghosts by W. C. Ryan and The Grip of It by Jac Jemc. His love for horror connects him to his best mate and co-star Dominic Brunt (Paddy), who has even directed zombie films such as Before Dawn. Together, the duo have hosted a zombie film festival in Leeds — and once pitched the idea of an Emmerdale Halloween special, joking: “Everybody could be bitten by zombies and we all turn into zombies!”

A Touching Tribute That Broke Fans’ Hearts

Perhaps one of Mark’s most heartfelt real-life moments came in 2014 when he led tributes to Harry Whittaker, the young actor who played his on-screen son, Leo Goskirk. Harry tragically passed away at just three years old from a chronic lung disease.

Mark shared a deeply emotional message:
“Our superhero. We were lucky to know you and hear your laugh. You lit up our lives, dearest, loveliest Harry.”

Years later, he continued to honour Harry’s memory, posting a touching message on what would have been his tenth birthday: “Thinking of our prince Harry with love and happy memories.”

The Man Behind Marlon

For all of Marlon’s heartbreak and chaos on Emmerdale, Mark Charnock remains one of the show’s most grounded and respected figures — a man who values friendship, family, and creativity.

While his character faces dark times on-screen, fans can take comfort knowing that off-screen, Mark’s world is one of peace, laughter, and quiet happiness — a fitting contrast to life in the Dales.