Emmerdale: 'Controlling' John 'the new Tom King' say fans amid fears for Aaron

Like two peas in a pod?
Joel Harley
By Joel Harley

Emmerdale fans have grown concerned for Aaron, branding John Sugden ‘the new Tom King.’ John’s controlling side has come out as he attempts to protect Aaron from the consequences of killing Anthony.

Cleaning the crime scene and hiding the body, John has been Aaron’s rock. However, viewers have seen another side of John. In addition to handling the situation, he’s also attempted to keep Aaron from spiralling out of control or confessing to Ruby.

Last night’s episode (Wednesday, January 29) saw John remain firm in his stance that Aaron should keep quiet about the attack – Aaron’s own feelings on the matter be damned.

This has kept Aaron out of prison so far, but some have suggested that his behaviour towards Aaron seems a bit familiar… reminiscent, in fact, of one Tom King.

John glares at a nervous Aaron
Viewers aren’t happy about how John’s been treating Aaron (Credit: ITV)

John ‘the new Tom’ suggest Emmerdale fans as he ‘controls’ Aaron

Writing on X as recent scenes aired, fans shared their thoughts on the chilly interplay between John and Aaron. And a few were unsettled by John’s demeanor with Aaron.

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“John is the new Tom and Aaron is going to end up being a version of belle, John does like to be in control,” wrote one fan.

“John is really controlling Aaron,” observed another.

“I have to say John really creeped me out he seems very controlling and the differences between him & what Robert would have done is really apparent, John doesn’t know Aaron at all,” said a third.

But what does John’s controlling side mean for Aaron?

Tom Emmerdale Ofcom Complaints
Tom’s gone, but the soap soon filled the void of manipulative monster (Credit: ITV)

What’s John’s game?

No sooner had Tom King been sentenced to prison than Anthony filled the role of village creep. As Tom’s story came to an end, so Ruby’s ramped up. The soap then confirmed that he’d raped her as a teenager.

Anthony is now dead – with Aaron having apparently beaten him to death. John’s willingness to cover up a serious crime had many baffled, pointing out that he might have an ulterior motive.

Many are convinced that John isn’t what he seems – with theories ranging from serial killer to psychopath. Devoted (if slightly creepy) boyfriend or controlling would-be killer? What’s John up to?

Read more: From Carl King to son Tom, Emmerdale characters that finally got their comeuppance

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLANbaQVxes?si=CdKBVdz7nEaC-5kx]

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

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

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