Emmerdale Ruby's abuser 'revealed' in heartbreaking twist - but it's not her father

Emmerdale fans believe they have figured out the truth about Ruby Fox-Milligan and her estranged father, Anthony.

Ruby (played by Beth Cordingly) and Caleb (portrayed by William Ash) were left speechless this month when their daughter Steph (Georgia Jay) made an unexpected appearance, over a decade since they last saw her.

Stephanie was first mentioned a few months back, following the passing of Ruby's mother Helen (Sharon Maughan). Last week, Steph arrived in the Dales - but it was evident that Steph was only there to claim her inheritance from her late grandmother Helen.

Steph confronted her mother about her terrible childhood, but the situation escalated dramatically when Ruby slapped her, instead of the reconciliation she had hoped for. Luckily, the two managed to reconcile. However, another family member soon arrived in the Dales: Ruby's father Anthony (Nicholas Day), reports Leeds Live.

It was clear there was a lot of unresolved history between the father and daughter - with Ruby adamant she wanted nothing to do with him. Steph later confronted Anthony, begging him to leave the village, which he did. But during Friday's episode (November 22), things took a heartfelt turn.

Steph - who has moved in with Caleb and Ruby - attempted to get her mother to look inside the memory box from her childhood. Clearly hiding something, Ruby was overwhelmed with emotion after picking up a photo of herself at age 15, dressed in a school uniform.

Speculation is rife among viewers about the traumas of 'Emmerdale's' Ruby, with some suspecting a very dark history. On an Emmerdale Facebook fan group, theories abound: "Ruby - I see lots of folk speculating that her dad abused her and is possibly Steph's dad - I don't think so I think Caleb is Steph's dad - BUT I do think there's possible abuse that her parents ignored so maybe an uncle or brother?"

Another viewer offered a different take: "My theory is she was abused by her mum, but her dad knew about it. Having said that, I don't want an abuse storyline, so we'll just have to wait it out and see what the story is."

A further comment from another member of the community reads: "I'd prefer that storyline to Ruby being abused by her Dad, it's too far is that one." In agreement, yet another person shared: " That's what I said. She undoubtedly told them and they wouldn't believe her."

If you are worried that a friend, neighbour or loved one is a victim of domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm

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