It’s been a big year for the Dingles, and with it, Emmerdale fans have noticed a change in Sam Dingle – and they’re here for it.
The last few months alone have seen Sam come to terms with his son being sent to prison, the revelation that his sister has been abused by her husband and his dad’s death.
Fans believe that these big events have seen Sam become more emotionally intelligent.
Sam’s big year
Following on from 2023, which saw Sam’s wife Lydia assaulted by her childhood friend Craig, things continued to be tough for Sam. Earlier this year, Sam’s son Samson teamed up with local thug Josh Cope. They carried out a robbery at The Hide. Unfortunately, waiter Matty Barton was there and a scuffle broke out. Samson ended up being stabbed and then lied to the police that Matty had stabbed him on purpose.
Matty was jailed, but Samson eventually admitted the truth. He was then sentenced to four years in prison. The whole situation took its toll on Sam, who was heartbroken to lose his son.
Then came Belle’s revelation that husband Tom had been emotionally and physically abusing her for the past year. Sam was furious that anyone would hurt his little sister.
More bad news came last month with Zak Dingle‘s death. Sam and Cain travelled to Scotland together to retrieve Zak’s body and bring him home to Emmerdale. Sam, Cain and Belle then came together to give Zak the perfect Dingle farewell.
Emmerdale fans praise Sam Dingle character change
Throughout Sam’s tough time, fans have noticed how well Sam has dealt with everything and have commented that he appears more mature.
Taking to Reddit, one fan wrote: “Sam has always been made out to be not very bright and pretty useless but recently his character is changing for the better. Now he is often the voice of reason and keeps his head when others are losing theirs.
“For example he was at the hospital trying to support Cain and talking sense into him. Another one was when he was telling Cain and others not to go all guns blazing punching Tom because it wouldn’t help Belle’s situation.”
They added: “He was great with Lydia after her attack and does his duty towards Amelia and the baby. I think he is finally coming into his own and showing some leadership and good qualities. He’s always played second fiddle to Cain but he’s showing some strength of character now.”
Others agreed, with another viewer writing: “I love Sam at the moment, he’s like the real head of the family, think Lydia has brought the best out in him,” while a third fan commented that Sam is “emotionally intelligent.”
Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the exits, arrivals and returns coming up
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