Emmerdale to Air Special Episode Highlighting Modern Slavery as Bear‘s Story Unfolds
Yorkshire, UK – Emmerdale will air a standalone episode focusing on the harrowing reality of modern slavery, revealing the truth behind character Bear Wolfman’s situation. The episode aims to raise awareness of how vulnerable individuals are targeted by criminal agencies.
The storyline, developed with support from The Salvation Army, depicts bear ensnared by manipulative characters Ray and celia, illustrating the cruelty and control inherent in modern slavery.Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw explained, “When Ray and Celia first came to Emmerdale it was clear that both characters were not to be trusted. we have seen their manipulation of April and Dylan, but this special stand alone episode featuring Bear ensnared in Modern Slavery, highlights the cruelty and control that these slave masters can exhibit.Bear is truly trapped in his situation and over a series of scenes you begin to understand a little more how this happened.”
Shaw emphasized the prevalence of such exploitation, even in rural settings. “With our farming and rural backdrop we have an ideal setting, but it’s not all fluffy sheep and rolling landscapes. The countryside, just like an urban setting, can harbour the dark undercurrents of society.” She also noted a potential complexity to Ray’s character, suggesting, “I don’t think the audience will ever like the character of Ray, but hopefully there will be glimmers within this episode that make you realize he too is perhaps trapped in a world not of his making.”
The episode also ties into an ongoing Emmerdale storyline involving county lines drug exploitation affecting characters April and Dylan. The Salvation Army has provided “invaluable help” with the portrayal of both storylines, according to Shaw.
The issue disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. As stated in related commentary, “The disadvantaged, dispossessed, those with mental health issues or disabilities, the old, lonely and vulnerable people that our society neglect are the perfect prey for grooming by unscrupulous criminal agencies.”
Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30 PM on ITV1 and STV, or from 7:00 AM on ITVX and STV player.
If you suspect someone is a victim of modern slavery, contact:
* The Salvation Army’s 24/7 free and confidential referral helpline: 0800 808 3733
* The Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline: 0800 0121 700
* In immediate danger, call 999.
