A Story Fans Never Saw Coming

Emmerdale actress Jaye Griffiths, known to viewers as Celia in the ITV soap, has shared a deeply personal story about surviving a violent and controlling relationship that lasted for five years. While her character on screen is known for power and intimidation, her private life once looked very different. During an interview on Kaye Adams’ How to Be 60 podcast, Jaye described how abuse slowly isolated her until she felt unable to reach out for help.

“I Couldn’t Tell Anyone”

Jaye explained that shame and manipulation kept her silent. She said she “disappeared” from her life for half a decade, unable to make decisions because she was constantly told her thoughts weren’t real. She now recognises those years as gaslighting. One day she would be hit; the next, she would receive jewellery, which left her confused and afraid to speak.

She described living in a “twilight existence,” struggling to trust her own instincts. Something as simple as hearing footsteps behind her triggered panic. Rebuilding her confidence took years, and even everyday activities felt dangerous. Turning on a heater at home could lead to explosive anger, forcing her to choose between cold or conflict.

When she eventually went to the police, she was told that many women experience violence more than 30 times before reporting it. Jaye recalled how exhausting it was to keep saying, “I’m fine”, when she was not.

Finding Safety and Learning to Trust Again

Jaye eventually managed to leave the relationship. With time, her life changed. She has now been married to her current husband for more than 20 years, although healing was not instant. She said she struggled to be touched, especially around her neck, and it took several years before she could feel safe again.

Her home is now a peaceful place. She describes a quiet, gentle life where care is shown not through grand gestures, but through small acts: a cup of tea, dinner cooked every night, and love shared with their family and dogs. She says she feels lucky to live in safety and hopes others can find it too.

If You Need Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. Support is confidential.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7): 0808 2000 247
Women’s Aid: womensaid.co.uk
Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse: aafda.org.uk