Emmerdale fans watching the latest ITVX release were left in shock as Moira Dingle (Natalie J Robb) collapsed in a field, sparking fears that her brain tumour may have returned. The emotional episode also set the stage for Cain’s (Jeff Hordley) troubled comeback — one that could make things even worse for his family.

Moira Pushed to Breaking Point

With Cain still missing after his trip to France, Moira has been struggling to keep Butlers Farm and her family running on her own. Juggling life as a mum to two young boys and managing the business has taken its toll, especially as she remains in the dark about what Cain is really doing.

Earlier this month, viewers saw Cain pack a bag and leave the village to track down John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), the man responsible for killing his son Nate. With Caleb Miligan (William Ash) helping John flee abroad, Cain decided to pursue him to France, desperate for revenge.

Now, as Cain continues to ignore her calls, Moira’s exhaustion finally catches up with her.

A Terrifying Collapse

The episode opens with Moira already stretched thin. When she notices the garage is still closed, she calls Kammy Hadiq (Shebz Miah), who’s busy enjoying breakfast with Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper). Despite her frustration, Kammy refuses to rush, leaving Moira to handle things alone.

Later, as she tries to move heavy fence panels across a field, Moira suddenly becomes breathless and collapses to the ground.

Luckily, her son Matty Barton (Ash Palmisciano) is nearby and rushes to her side, terrified that her symptoms signal something far more serious.

Fans will remember that Moira was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year, a condition that caused her to experience seizures and fainting spells. Matty fears the worst, but Moira insists she’s simply run down and exhausted.

“You’d Feel Better If Cain Was Around”

Matty doesn’t hold back, telling his mum that she’s taking on too much alone and that Cain’s absence is making things worse. “You’d feel better if Cain was around,” he says, pointing out that even in his own grief, he managed to stay responsible when he lost Amy Wyatt (Natalie Ann Jamieson).

Moira reluctantly admits he’s right and considers reaching out to Cain — unaware that his return is imminent, but not in the way she hopes.

Cain Returns — But He’s Broken

Next week, Cain finally makes his way back to the Dales, but he’s far from the man he used to be. Haunted by his time away and reliant on alcohol, he refuses to open up about what happened in France or whether he ever found John Sugden.

When Moira pleads with him to be a father and reminds him that it’s nearly Zak’s anniversary, Cain shuts down completely. Meanwhile, Sam (James Hooton) and Belle are devastated when he fails to turn up at their dad’s grave.

Can Cain Be Saved?

With Moira’s health faltering and Cain spiralling into self-destruction, the Dingles are on the verge of another crisis. As Belle and Sam grow increasingly worried, one question hangs in the air — who will help Cain find his way back before it’s too late?