Moira looks pained at home on Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Composite: EI)

Tonight’s episode of Emmerdale (Friday September 13) will see the heartbreaking moment that Moira Dingle is diagnosed with a brain tumour. Moira and Cain learned last night that a ‘mass’ on her brain was behind her recent erratic behaviour – leaving them both terrified for her future.

Moira’s ill health had led to her attempting to kiss Nate, headbutting Ruby, and even hallucinating a confrontation with old enemy Emma Barton. In her confusion, Moira let off a gunshot which sparked this week’s barn fire-turned-explosion, putting multiple lives in danger.

The symptoms continued during the aftermath of the fire, as Moira suffered a seizure while talking to dubious husband Cain.

,Moira looks upset as she talks to a doctor on Emmerdale
Moira learned the reason for her sudden change in personality last night (Credit: ITV)

Emmerdale tonight: Moira diagnosed with a brain tumour

After a quick scan, Moira’s doctor revealed that they had found a mass on her brain. And, as the storyline continues, Moira will be diagnosed with a brain tumour.

In tonight’s episode, Moira discovers that she has a type of brain tumour called a meningioma. This is why she has been suffering from the symptoms which led to her sudden change in personality. It is also responsible for the confusion, memory loss… and the seizure she also suffered last night.

While non cancerous, the tumour leaves Moira terrified for her future and apprehensive about its treatment.

Emmerdale worked closely with the charities Brains Trust and The Brain Tumour Charity while devising the storyline. They will continue to support the production team to give Moira’s story a realistic and authentic depiction.

Moira looks stressed at home on Emmerdale
Moira is played by actor Natalie J. Robb (Credit: ITV)

Natalie J. Robb reveals ‘challenging time ahead’ for Moira

Speaking on the storyline, actor Natalie J. Robb said: “I feel really fortunate to be trusted with such a challenging storyline. Moira and her family have an extremely challenging time ahead, and I’m hoping I can portray it in a truthful way that does justice to all the people who are really suffering with a brain tumour.”

Meanwhile, Emmerdale Producer Sophie Roper said: “Moira’s diagnosis comes as a huge shock to both her and her family and Moira faces an emotional and challenging time ahead.”

She continued: “The research and support we’ve received throughout this storyline has allowed us to depict the realities of the condition and though at times it may be distressing to see the symptoms Moira’s experiencing, we’re keen to explore the hope and resilience Moira finds as she comes to terms with her diagnosis.”

So it doesn’t sound like she’s leaving for now as the storyline has a long way to go. Can Moira come through this?

Read more: Fans slam laid-back Mack for barn fire reaction: ‘He couldn’t sound less concerned’

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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