Emmerdale is soap with the most Ofcom complaints in 2024 - and it’s mostly down to Tom abuse storyline

Soaps are known to tackle hard-hitting storylines, and sometimes viewers think they may take things to far. But out of all the soaps, it was Emmerdale which received the most Ofcom complaints in 2024.

This isn’t Emmerdale’s first time getting a lot of complaints, but it is their highest amount ever.

And that’s all down to Tom King’s abuse.

Since earlier this year, Tom began emotionally and physically abusing Belle Dingle, in an ordeal that finally ended in yesterday’s episode (December 19).

While viewers were left disturbed over many scenes this year. It’s been reported that it was Tom’s treatment of their dog, Piper, that sparked many Ofcom complaints.

Tom Emmerdale Ofcom Complaints — Tom pretended Piper had died to manipulate Belle (Credit: ITV)

Emmerdale storyline that got the most Ofcom complaints

The sickening scenes saw Tom harm his dog in another attempt to bring Belle back under his control.

In an incredibly tough scene to watch, Tom stood over Piper with a syringe in his hand. He told the puppy: “Don’t worry. This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you. Then again, maybe not.”

The cameras then cut away before we could see anything else. But Piper could be heard whimpering off-screen.

It’s now been revealed by Ofcom that those scenes gained Emmerdale the Number 5 spot on the Top 10 most complained about moments this year.

A total of 1,193 Ofcom complaints were made. But it looked like far more than that voiced their disgust on social media. So much so that Emmerdale had to clarify the pup was not actually harmed.

Taking to their own social media, Emmerdale shared: “These scenes can be distressing to watch, but we want to remind you that Minnie (AKA Piper) is a very good actor and is always living her best life on set!

“We can confirm that no harm has come to her whatsoever.”

Emmerdale's Piper and Belle reunited at a graveside — Belle is reunited with Piper at Christmas. (Credit: ITV)

Ofcom’s response

Not only did Tom injure the dog, but he also let Belle believe she died, even faking a burial for the pooch.

In response to the complaints, Ofcom responded with how they dealt with the investigation.

They acknowledged the scenes were ‘an uncomfortable watch,’ but added that ‘no graphic detail of animal abuse was shown’ and ‘Tom’s actions were not portrayed in a positive light.’

Ofcom added: “We also took into account that this long-running storyline depicting coercive control in a relationship would have been within audience expectations of this soap, which often tackles challenging themes and issues.”

Belle finally got the justice she deserved last night, as Tom was found guilty on all charges against him. And the villain got sentenced to three years behind bars.

And while Belle faces a journey of healing, that will be made a little bit easier when she is reunited with Piper this Christmas. We can’t wait to see Piper again!

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm on ITV3.

Follow our Facebook page @EmmerdaleInsider for the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers. Or find us on Twitter @EmmerdaleInside. Let us know your thoughts!