Emmerdale's Eric Pollard has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Emmerdale's Eric Pollard receives heartbreaking diagnosis
Chris Chittell, who portrays the legendary soap character, feels "really privileged" to have been given such a powerful plot, and he is determined to do it justice.
He said: "I feel really privileged to be given this storyline.
"Parkinson’s is indiscriminate, deceptive and wickedly unkind targeting so many.
"I want to do this storyline justice for the most courageous of people who are having to bear the brunt of this condition."
On Wednesday night's (01.11.23) episode, Eric tearfully confided in Mandy Dingle (Lisa Riley) about what he has been going through.
'Emmerdale' has worked closely with charity Parkinson’s UK on the hard-hitting storyline.
Show producer Laura Shaw said: "When Eric Pollard is diagnosed with Parkinsons he's naturally very scared and unsure of what the condition means for his future.
"The unique position of a show like 'Emmerdale' means we can tell this story really authentically over a long period of time and we can really shine a light on what a diagnosis like this means and follow Pollard on his journey of learning to live with it.
"Working closely with Parkinson's UK, who have been guiding us through every step of the way, we hope seeing Pollard's story helps to raise awareness of Parkinson’s and show the day to day reality of those living with it, as well as the impact it can have on friends, family and the local community."
Caroline Rassell, Chief Executive of Parkinson’s UK, added: "Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, but is still misunderstood by many.
"A diagnosis can be a blow, forcing people to confront a future different from the one they had imagined. We hope that Eric's storyline will increase awareness and understanding of a condition that around 153,000 people in the UK live with, and encourage discussions about the impact it has on those living with Parkinson's and their loved ones.
"It's a privilege to be assisting the 'Emmerdale' team in portraying Eric’s journey, and Parkinson's UK is here to support anyone affected by the condition through our helpline, local groups and website."
Tagged in Chris Chittell Lisa Riley