Aaron Livesy

Aaron Dingle (also Livesy) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera, Emmerdale, played by Danny Miller. The character was originally played by Danny Webb and appeared in a recurring capacity. When Aaron was reintroduced in 2008, he was promoted to the full-time cast and the decision was made to recast the role. Miller successfully auditioned for the part and later admitted that he would have quit acting, if he had not been cast. Aaron made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 24 December 2003.

Aaron is the son of Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter) and Gordon Livesy (Gerard Fletcher; Gary Mavers). His storylines have included being involved with the criminal McFarlane family, making a romantic advance towards his best friend Adam Barton (Adam Thomas), coming to terms with his homosexuality, his relationship with Jackson Walsh (Marc Silcock) and Jackson's suicide. Miller chose to leave the show in November 2011 and he made his final appearance on 5 April 2012. Aaron's exit storyline saw him accused of arson and so he left the village with his new partner Ed Roberts (Lloyd Everitt).

Two years later, Miller reprised the role and Aaron returned on 14 August 2014, as part of a heist storyline involving Donna Windsor (Verity Rushworth) and Ross Barton (Michael Parr). The character's most notable storylines since his return have been his relationship with Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley), his role in Katie Sugden's (Sammy Winward) death, self-harming, revealing that he was sexually abused by his father when he was a child and reuniting with his estranged half-sister Liv Flaherty (Isobel Steele).

On 20 December 2016, Aaron was briefly played by Bryan Parry in a special episode focusing on Ashley Thomas' (John Middleton) dementia.^[1]

Storylines

2003–2006

When Aaron (Danny Webb) was young, his parents, Gordon Livesy (Gerard Fletcher) and Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter), separated and Chas left her son to live with his father and Gordon's second wife, Sandra (Janet Bamford). Aaron visits his mother in Emmerdale, where he tells her that he resents her for not raising him and explains that he feels that she abandoned him.^[2] The two begin to bond, before Aaron returns home to his father. Aaron returns to visit Chas, but she reprimands him after she catches him talking to other people about her behind her back.

Louise Appleton (Emily Symons) witnesses Chas slapping Aaron and tells Gordon when he arrives to collect his son. Gordon tells Chas that her relationship with her son is over and that Aaron will not visit her again. Despite this, Aaron returns to Emmerdale several months later, staying longer than expected as he came into contact with a person who had German measles and Sandra was pregnant. Aaron returns home to his father and his stepmother, after telling Chas that while she was in the Army, her partner Carl King (Tom Lister) had a one-night stand with her cousin, Del Dingle (Hayley Tamaddon).

2008–2012

Aaron (now Danny Miller) returns to the village two years later and is arrested by Ross Kirk (Samuel Anderson) for possession of drugs. He is cautioned then meets his mother but later runs away after Chas takes him home. Gordon reveals that he threw Aaron out for hitting Sandra, Chas' family learn that he is a drug courier for the McFarlanes and they bring him to Emmerdale after Gordon refuses to take him back.

Aaron clashes with Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins) but they eventually become friends and Aaron helps rescue her when she falls into a frozen lake. Aaron convinces his cousin, Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper), to take the day off school and is also caught stealing so Lisa (Jane Cox) throws him out. Consequently, he and Chas move into Smithy Cottage with Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt) and Chas gives him the choice of going to college or getting a job so he gets a job at the garage. Aaron begins dating Victoria and loses his virginity to her but they break up when he discovers her relationship with her foster brother, Daz Eden. Aaron then dates Holly Barton (Sophie Powles) and makes friends with her brother, Adam (Adam Thomas). When Aaron ignites a bale of hay at the Bartons' farm Holly's father, John (James Thornton), hits him and locks him in a stable. Aaron reports John to the police but later drops the charges.

Aaron discovers that Chas has resumed her relationship with Carl and he tells her that he wants nothing more to do with her. After Aaron and Adam are involved in a run-off-road collision, Aaron tries to kiss Adam. Aaron is embarrassed and tells Adam that he misunderstood the situation. Aaron sleeps with Holly and Adam tells his family that he thinks Aaron is gay. Adam tells Aaron that he is fine with him being gay but he does not want his sister to be used. Aaron denies it but Holly ends their relationship.

Aaron visits a gay bar and meets Jackson Walsh (Marc Silcock), he leaves his phone behind and Jackson returns it. Aaron returns to the bar to meet Jackson. When Paddy discovers that Aaron has visited a gay bar he asks if he Aaron is gay only for Aaron to violently attack him. Aaron apologises and admits that he is gay but rejects his sexuality. Jackson comes to the village to talk to Aaron. They go to kiss but are interrupted. After a night out at the bar Jackson and Aaron eventually kiss. Jackson comes to The Woolpack and when he touches Aaron's arm, Aaron punches him. Aaron is charged with ABH and told that he will stand trial. Aaron tries to kill himself at the garage but his uncle, Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley), and Adam find him in time. During his court case Aaron admits that he hit Jackson because he himself is gay and struggling with this situation, Aaron is sentenced to community service. He meets Wayne Dobson (Gary Hanks) who taunts him about his sexuality, back in the village Jackson witnesses this and sticks up for Aaron. After talking things through Aaron and Jackson start dating.

Aaron sells a clocked car to Mickey Hall (Lee Oakes). Aaron uses his dog, Clyde, to try to intimidate Mickey but Mickey sets his own dog on Clyde, seriously injuring him, so Clyde had to be put down. Jackson and Aaron argue and Jackson tells Aaron that he loves him. Aaron thinks things are becoming too serious and the pair do not talk for days. Aaron and Jackson invite Paddy and Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) on a night out. Jackson is hurt when Aaron does not say he loves him too and after realising that Aaron will not change his violent tendencies, Jackson drives off. Aaron tries to phone him and later finds Jackson has crashed his van onto a railway and has been hit by a train. Jackson is permanently paralysed from the neck down and Aaron tells him that he will not walk again as Jackson's mother, Hazel (Pauline Quirke), cannot do it. Jackson blames Aaron for the crash and they break up, Aaron refuses to see Jackson, even when Hazel asks him to.

Aaron and Jackson get back together and Aaron helps Jackson and Hazel move into Dale Head. Jackson's mood starts to deteriorate and he pushes Aaron away. Aaron meets Flynn Buchanan (Ryan Prescott) and he feels like he is cheating on Jackson. Aaron tells Flynn about Jackson and that he cannot forget about him. Aaron then tells Jackson that he loves him. Aaron watches Jackson's video diary and is shocked to hear Jackson admit that he wants to die, he tells Hazel and they try to work out how to help Jackson. Aaron confesses to Jackson that both he and Hazel have watched his video diary. Aaron and Hazel then become determined to show Jackson that he has a life worth living. Jackson is admitted to hospital with a chest infection and it strengthens his resolve to end his life. Jackson, Aaron and Hazel go to Whitby and Aaron books Jackson on a tandem skydive. Aaron thinks Jackson has changed his mind about dying, but he has not. Aaron is shocked to learn that Jackson has managed to convince Hazel to help him end his life. Jackson later promises Aaron that nothing is going to happen until Aaron is ready. Jackson breaks up with Aaron to make the process easier and Aaron agrees to help Jackson end his life. Jackson tells his mother and Aaron how grateful he is for their support and - when Hazel cannot give Jackson the pills - Aaron takes the cup and gives it to Jackson. Jackson then dies and Aaron runs through the village. He then tells Adam about Jackson's death and his part in it.

The police investigate Jackson's death and arrest Aaron for murder. Aaron is forced to miss the funeral as he is due in court. He is released on bail and he goes to Jackson's grave to say goodbye. At his trial, Aaron is found not guilty of murder. However Aaron blames himself for Jackson's death and starts lashing out at people. Aaron breaks into Carl's house with the intention of getting arrested, but Carl doesn't press charges. Aaron moves into The Woolpack with Chas and begins self-harming. During a drive Aaron starts speeding and crashes the car, Chas suffers minor injuries. When Sean Spencer (Luke Roskell) steals money from the garage Aaron chases after him then collapses. When he recovers Chas tries to get him to open up to her about his problems, later she catches Aaron self-harming and he starts attending counselling sessions. He also takes a break from the village for a while.

Aaron meets Ed Roberts (Lloyd Everitt) when he brings a minibus to the garage to be fixed. However, when Aaron becomes involved in an argument with Adam, Ed leaves. He later returns with his rugby teammates and Aaron fixes the minibus, but Ed drives off without paying the bill. Ed later returns to pay Aaron and when he brings his car to the garage for Aaron to look at, he gives him his phone number. Aaron arranges to go for a drink with Ed but cancels to help Adam fix a roof. Ed turns up with two of his teammates to help out. Ed initially mistakes Aaron and Adam's friendship for something more but Aaron corrects him and they kiss. They go on their first date to Bar West but Ed leaves early when he finds out about Jackson. Aaron becomes angry with Ed and deletes his phone number. Ed comes to visit Aaron and he apologises. Aaron reveals his scars from self-harming to Ed and they spend the night together. Ed tells Aaron that he has been signed for a French rugby club and is leaving for France in four weeks. He asks Aaron to come with him but he turns him down. Aaron spots a fire in the garage and helps Adam save Cain, who had become trapped. Aaron then learns Adam deliberately started the fire and, not wanting his friend to be sent to prison, tells the police that he was responsible for the fire. He is released on bail but on the day of his court hearing, Aaron goes to France with Ed.

2014–

Aaron returns to stop Adam participating in a robbery with Ross Barton (Michael Parr) and Donna Windsor (Verity Rushworth). After the robbery and Donna's subsequent death, Adam confesses to the garage arson, so Aaron can come home. However, Aaron is arrested for perverting the course of justice but returns to the village after receiving a suspended sentence. He moves into The Woolpack with Chas, her boyfriend, James Barton (Bill Ward), and Diane Sugden (Elizabeth Estensen). Aaron then has a one-night stand with Finn Barton (Joe Gill), James' son. Aaron resumes working at Debbie's garage where he gets caught up in a car scam with Ross and Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins). They abandon it after being caught. Aaron and Ross are then hired to raid Home Farm, involving Lawrence White (John Bowe) and his daughter, Chrissie (Louise Marwood), on orders of Chrissie's fiancé, Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley). A few weeks later Robert asks Aaron to fix his car and the pair kiss. They have sex in the back of a car at the garage, beginning an affair. Aaron grows closer to Robert, spending nights at hotels together and starting a scrap business with Adam, with Robert as an investor. Katie Sugden (Sammy Winward) suspects that Robert is cheating on Chrissie and sets about trying to prove it. Aaron tells Paddy that he has fallen in love with an unavailable man.

Aaron tries to make Robert choose him instead of Chrissie and the White fortune, but Robert ends their affair. On Robert's wedding day, Robert tells Aaron that they could continue together. Later, Aaron meets up with Robert at Wylie's Farm where he again asks him to call off the wedding and choose him. Robert's response isn't to Aaron's satisfaction so he texts Katie to come to Wylie's to get the evidence to prove Robert's infidelity. Aaron seduces Robert into a kiss and Katie photographs it. Robert attempts to blame Aaron, leading to Aaron leaving Katie and Robert alone together. A heated argument between the two results in Katie's death as she falls through the rotten floor after being pushed by Robert. Robert calls Aaron for help and they get rid of any evidence of their presence at the farm. Aaron tells Robert to marry Chrissie, so he has an alibi. Aaron struggles to cope with his guilt and cuts himself with a shard of glass outside the wedding reception. Chas is suspicious of Robert but Aaron tells her and Paddy that Robert was with him at the time, exposing their affair. Aaron begins self-harming to cope with his guilt.

Aaron and Robert resume their affair. While out jogging Aaron trips and falls in the woods, causing him to break his leg. He tries to free himself from a piece of branch under which his injured leg is trapped, Aaron falls down a steep hill and hits his head, knocking him unconscious. Eventually Chas and Robert find him and rush him to hospital. While Aaron is in hospital, Chas pleads with him to give up on Robert, to no avail. Aaron learns that James has cheated on Chas with his ex-wife, Emma Barton (Gillian Kearney). When James calls Aaron a coward Aaron retaliates by smashing a bottle over his head. Emma reports Aaron to the police for assault but James drops all charges, claiming no idea who attacked him.

Aaron learns from Paddy that Robert tried to kill him after finding out about Paddy's veiled warnings to Chrissie. Aaron arranges a secret break in order to elicit a confession from Robert. During the confrontation Robert admits the full truth to Aaron about Katie's death. Aaron attacks him but is quickly subdued by Robert. He then ties Aaron to a radiator as he tries to argue his case that he never intended to kill Katie. Robert produces a gun and accidentally shoots Paddy, who turns up to find Aaron. Eventually Robert releases them and they all agree to keep quiet about the day's events. Aaron tells Chrissie the truth about his affair with Robert.

Andy Sugden (Kelvin Fletcher) questions Aaron about his call to Katie. Panicked, Aaron lies that Katie had phoned him about changing her car so she could get some money to start a new life away from Andy, but Andy does not believe him. Suspicious, Andy confides in Robert that he thinks Aaron is lying. Andy manages to get Robert to admit to pushing Katie to her death, but leaving out Aaron's involvement completely. At The Woolpack, Aaron finally admits to Chas that Robert killed Katie and coerced him into covering it up. Robert is arrested but released soon after. He is later shot by an unknown person. Aaron appears on the scene not long after and tries to help Dan Spencer (Liam Fox) tend to Robert's wound.

Aaron believes his mother could possibly have shot Robert. He visits a comatose Robert in hospital where he tells him to hurry up and die, he later suggests to Victoria that Robert deserved what happened to him. Adam and Victoria accidentally film Aaron concealing the gun in a car at the scrapyard. Adam confronts Aaron, who admits hiding it to protect his mother when he believed she was guilty. Victoria uploads the video to the internet where it is seen by Priya Sharma (Fiona Wade) and Rakesh Kotecha (Pasha Bocarie). Rakesh reports it to the police and Aaron is arrested and charged with possession of a firearm and attempted murder. Already having a suspended sentence, he is immediately remanded in custody. It emerges that on the night of the shooting, Aaron was at the garage when he heard the gunshot. He accidentally alerted the shooter, Ross, who then quickly hid, but in his haste dropped the gun. As Aaron approached the scene he discovered the gun, and, upon seeing that Robert had been shot with Chas standing right next to him, presumed she had shot Robert and so took the gun to protect her. Aaron pleads not guilty and Robert tries to goad Aaron into telling the truth. Aaron angrily shouts that he should have done everyone a favour and died. After discovering Andy's involvement in his shooting, Robert makes a false statement to get Aaron released.

Aaron's father, Gordon, visits the village. Cain catches Aaron trying to burn himself with the candles on his birthday cake. When he learns that his parents have reunited and his father also possibly buying Diane's share of The Woolpack, Aaron plans to run away to France. On the day he is due to leave Robert tries to stop him, leading to Aaron's collapse from septicaemia due to extensive self-harming. Robert rushes him to hospital where Aaron reveals that his self-harming is his father's fault. Aaron discharges himself and hides at Debbie's house, where Robert finds him. Aaron admits to Robert that Gordon raped him when he was a child. Aaron confronts Gordon about the past, and Gordon leaves. After spending the day at the seaside, Aaron breaks down and tells Chas about Gordon.

Aaron refuses to report Gordon to the police, so Chas confronts Gordon, who admits he abused Aaron as revenge for the assault on his own ego when she left him. When Chas returns home she tells Aaron that Gordon admitted to abusing him. Chas then tells Cain, who goes to Gordon's home to get revenge. When Aaron learns of this he stops Cain by agreeing to go to the police. While Aaron gives his statement to the police, Cain - with Aaron's blessing - tells the Dingles, Paddy, Moira and Adam everything. Gordon is brought in for questioning, maintaining his innocence and branding his son a liar. Gordon also informs the police of Cain's actions against him. Gordon then turns up at the scrapyard to bully Aaron into retracting his statement, he tries to bargain Cain's freedom against Aaron's case.

Robert helps Aaron track down his stepmother, Sandra Livesy, who has changed her surname to Flaherty, and his younger half-sister, Liv Flaherty. Aaron pleads for Sandra's help, but she is adamant that she knows nothing. When Sandra slips up that she changed her surname to keep Liv safe, Aaron works out that she knows what happened and he becomes angry with her. He tells Liv what kind of person their father is and returns home. Aaron then learns a second young man has come forward to say Gordon abused him. The police inform Aaron that, because of Ryan's statement, they are pressing charges against Gordon. However, Aaron spots Robert and Ryan (George Sampson) together and learns Robert paid Ryan to lie. Aaron visits Ryan and convinces him to retract his statement, Ryan agrees. Aaron finds out the police intended to charge Gordon with his statement only. Aaron tells Robert that they should only be friends. Liv and her mother arrive in the village, Liv is convinced Aaron is lying about their dad abusing him. Aaron tries to explain what Gordon did to him but she refuses to believe him. Chas convinces Sandra to give a statement to the police.

Liv comes to stay with Aaron for a while. He soon learns that Gordon is using her to discredit Aaron's case against him. Aaron asks Liv to leave, so she runs away. Aaron goes to Gordon's house to find Liv, Gordon tries to provoke Aaron to violence but Aaron keeps his temper, promising to see his father in court. During the trial, Gordon's barrister suggests that Aaron hates all men interested in his mother and that he had made up the allegations as a way to split up Chas and Gordon. Liv tells the court to believe Aaron and brands Gordon a bully and a liar. Gordon is found guilty. Aaron admits that he wants to change his surname to Dingle. He and Robert also agree to take things slowly between them. Liv moves into The Woolpack, after she refuses to move to Dublin with Sandra. Gordon is later sentenced to 18 years in prison. Aaron is left confused when Gordon asks if he got his letter, unaware that Robert burnt it after receiving it from Pete. When they arrive home, Aaron mentions the letter but Robert covers his tracks by claiming it is another of Gordon's lies. Aaron's name change becomes official. At the party Aaron learns that Robert has destroyed the letter from Gordon. Gordon takes his own life in prison.

Aaron discovers Gordon has left £500,000 for himself and Liv, but that he must revert to his original surname in order to claim his half. Aaron convinces Liv to accept her share. Aaron, Liv, Robert and Chas attend Gordon's funeral. Aaron finally vents his anger at his father and promises to take care of Liv. Aaron organises a holiday for himself, Liv and Robert. Aaron and Robert agree to live together at the pub until they find a place for themselves and Liv. Aaron receives an offer to learn the export trade in France and plans a holiday with Robert. Chas reveals that Liv has been playing up in school, so Robert agrees to stay behind to supervise her. Chrissie's sister Rebecca (Emily Head) introduces herself to Aaron.

Aaron overhears Lachlan threatening to make false allegations of sexual abuse against Robert, and he forces his head into a barrel of water, warning him to stay away. Robert calms Aaron down and they later meet at a barn, where Aaron shows Robert that he has Lachlan tied up in the boot of his car. Robert reprimands Aaron for his actions. Lachlan escapes and they are forced to give chase and stop him falling over the edge of a cliff. Lachlan almost forces Aaron over until Robert pulls him off. Lachlan tells Aaron that Robert is having an affair with Rebecca. With Lachlan back in the boot, Aaron and Robert talk and Robert admits he is bisexual. While driving back to the village, Robert produces a ring and tells Aaron he was going to propose. Aaron takes his eyes off the road, but Robert yells at Aaron to watch out and he loses control of the car trying to avoid a pile up on the road. They crash into a water-filled quarry. Aaron regains consciousness and realises his leg is trapped. Robert attempts to free him, but Aaron begs Robert to save himself. Robert eventually manages to free him and he gets Aaron breathing again, as the paramedic arrives. Robert dives back into the water to try and save Lachlan. Aaron becomes unresponsive and undergoes surgery on his liver. He regains consciousness as Robert, Liv and Chas visit him. Aaron accepts Robert's proposal and goes on to recover from his injuries.

Aaron and Robert attend the bonfire night at Home Farm, where Rebecca publicly accuses Chrissie of framing Andy. Aaron learns that Finn has been visiting Kasim, another victim of the pile up, almost every day. Aaron voices his concerns and tells Finn that he should stay away. Aaron becomes jealous when he sees Rebecca and Robert together. Robert insists that they are trying to clear Andy's name, but Aaron does not trust Rebecca and asks Robert to stay away. Rebecca tells Aaron that she and Robert kissed. Aaron calls her bluff, saying he already knew Robert was playing her before telling her she is not a threat. Aaron angrily confronts Robert and Robert assures him it was only to get Rebecca on side for Andy, and that it meant nothing. After learning that The Mill is up for auction, Liv offers to use some of her inheritance to help buy it, but Aaron refuses to use Gordon's money.

Aaron breaks into Home Farm and empties the safe. Rebecca confronts Aaron at the pub, threatening to call the police. When she asks why Aaron would choose to steal from her, Aaron tells her about Gordon's abuse. Aaron returns the money and he purchases The Mill for himself, Robert and Liv. Aaron (Bryan Parry) finds a confused Ashley wandering around the streets of Hotten and offers to bring him back to the village. He takes him to The Woolpack and is saddened to see the former vicar's rapid decline as his dementia takes hold. Aaron (Danny Miller) encourages Chas and Paddy to get back together. Aaron is disappointed when Robert cannot be with him on his birthday because he is negotiating a business deal with Rebecca. Chas later shows him a video of Robert and Rebecca hugging, and he confronts Rebecca, who tells him that she was helping Robert plan a trip to Vegas for himself and Aaron. Robert and Aaron argue about the lack of trust in their relationship again. When Robert mentions that he is helping Rebecca to run Home Farm in Lawrence's absence, which will require an overnight stay, Aaron lies that he has booked a weekend away in Manchester.

Aaron struggles to hide his jealousy when Robert spends most of his time working on a business plan for Rebecca. Aaron and Robert decide to have a secret wedding in Vegas. However, they argue and Robert removes his engagement ring. Aaron gets drunk and beats Kasim when he sees a disagreement between him and Finn. Aaron is arrested and Robert promises to stand by him. Aaron apologises to Finn for attacking Kasim. Finn tells him he deserves to go to prison, but hopes he does not. Aaron meets his estranged grandmother Faith Dingle and instantly takes a shine to her, despite Chas' disapproval. Liv is disappointed that no one has remembered her birthday and lashes out at Aaron and Chas. Aaron finds her drowning her sorrows at the bridge and carries her home. Aaron gives Liv some belated birthday presents but she gets upset about the thought of him going to prison, causing Aaron to snap at her. He goes out for a run and Faith finds him suffering from a panic attack.

With the help of their families, Robert surprises Aaron with an impromptu wedding ceremony in the Woolpack. Just as the service gets underway, the police turn up looking for Faith. Upset, Robert walks off and Aaron follows him to the garage, where Robert laments that he wanted this day to be perfect, but Aaron assures him it doesn't matter and produces the rings. They exchange their vows in private before heading back to the pub where they are congratulated by their family and friends. Aaron apologises to Robert for having to leave him. Robert assures Aaron that he will wait for him. Aaron is given 12 months in prison. He immediately begins to struggle with the situation. After seeking the advice of one of the guards, Aaron decides to hide his sexuality for his own protection, but instinctively shouts at the prison bully Jason when he sees him abusing a fellow gay inmate. When confronted by his cellmate Ethan, Aaron claims to have a gay brother in order to cover his tracks.

Robert visits Aaron in prison where the pair struggle to hide their emotions. Jason spies Robert gently squeezing Aaron's leg under the table and works out Aaron's sexuality, later confronting him in his cell. Aaron squares up to Jason and calls the thug out on his bigotry. Hearing the guards approaching, Jason and his mates leave but not before threatening Aaron. The next day, Chas visits Aaron and she is dismayed to learn that the inmates are aware of his sexuality after he is openly hassled in the visiting room by Jason though he tries to play it down in front of her. Instinctively, Chas lashes out and tries to warn Jason off. Later, Aaron is cornered by Jason and his mates; the guards manage to pull them apart in time but Aaron is left shaken and afraid by the encounter. The following day, Aaron is unsettled when a fellow inmate recognises him and calls him "Livesy" in front of Jason. Robert visits Aaron again and apologises to him after learning from Chas what happened after the last time he visited. Aaron assures him he's fine but keeps getting more nervous as Jason is watching them. Later, Aaron is shocked when Jason reveals he knew Gordon and confesses that he was the one who got him to kill himself before launching a vicious attack. Battered and bruised, Aaron rings Chas and tells her to see Sarah in Prague, assuring his mum he's ok but after Jason stops by to warn him its only the beginning, he crumples the floor and suffers a severe panic attack.

The next morning, Ethan offers Aaron a joint of Spice to help with the pain but Aaron refuses, saying his 6pm phonecall to Liv and Robert will get him through the day. Aaron is soon cornered by Jason and his mates; they bundle him into a cell and he tries to stand up to them but quickly falls apart when Jason tells him it's the cell where Gordon took his own life. Holding him down, Jason continues to taunt Aaron about his past and tells him he won't kill him as he's already dead inside. Aaron is later found in a near catatonic state by the prison chaplain, Fr Aiden who delivers some tough love, saying Aaron needs to open up to the people he cares about or end up like Jason. Aaron later makes his phonecall to Liv and Robert but is unable to confide in them. That night in his cell, Aaron gives into temptation and asks Ethan for some Spice. The next morning, Aaron asks Ethan for more Spice but his cell mate tells him the only person he can get it off is Jason. Aaron goes to see Jason and is told he can have the drugs if he agrees to do some jobs for him. Aaron is later visited by Liv and Paddy. While Paddy gives them some time alone, Liv immediately senses something is amiss and is shocked to discover her brother is on drugs. Aaron is taken aback by her perceptiveness and begs her not to tell Robert. Liv abruptly asks Paddy to take her home, leaving Aaron crushed. Later, Aaron goes to see Jason again and agrees to deliver drugs to other inmates for him; Ethan warns Aaron if he gets caught, he'll risk his appeal.

Robert comes to visit Aaron again and tells him he knows about the drugs, having learnt the truth from Liv. Aaron is gutted about being found out and Robert is dismayed by his husband's indifference, both towards the drugs and Liv's recent expulsion from school, causing Aaron to get defensive and orders Robert to leave him alone. A few days later, Robert and Chas visit to tell Aaron his appeal has been successful and he'll be released in a few weeks. Aaron apologises to Robert for the things he said last time he visited and promises he's off the drugs for good.

A few weeks later, Aaron is released and shares an emotional reunion with Robert outside the prison gates. They arrive back at the village where Faith has organised a coming home party. Aaron is soon overwhelmed by it all and after speaking briefly with Rebecca, he rushes outside where he has a panic attack. Robert tries to comfort him but Aaron suddenly turns around and punches him in the face. Horrified by his actions, he quickly apologises before breaking down and admits to Robert what he went through in prison, including being beaten and locked in Gordon's cell. Robert gently assures his husband he'll get through this and promises to get him help for his problems.

When Aaron stresses about not being able to support Liv, Robert takes him for a picnic in order to take his mind off things. They have a great time together and Robert tells Aaron he's proud of him. On their way back to the village they are shocked to overhear Rebecca is pregnant. The next day, Aaron attends his first counselling session and with Robert's encouragment finds himself finally able to open up about his problems and admitting that he wants to change. Robert suggests to Aaron that they visit Chas and Liv for a few weeks and after getting the all clear from his probation officer, they leave the village.

A month later Robert and Aaron return from their break and move into the Mill. However, Aaron is heartbroken when Robert breaks down and confesses that he slept with Rebecca, she got pregnant as a result and he told her to have an abortion. Devastated by the betrayal Aaron removes his ring and orders Robert to leave. Alone, Aaron contemplates hurting himself again but he comes to his senses and goes to see his counsellor instead. Later that evening Aaron asks Robert to come back to the house so they can talk. They have a heartfelt discussion about everything and Aaron tells Robert he wants to forgive him. They agree to start again and Aaron assures Robert he still loves him. However, the next day Aaron and Robert are dismayed to learn that Rebecca is still pregnant. Robert tells him it changes nothing and begs for Aaron's forgiveness but Aaron tearfully tells him it'll always be a reminder of what he did. Aaron then goes to see Rebecca and she tries to convince him to leave Robert. After thinking things through, Aaron surprises Robert by saying he will support him if he wants to be a part of the baby's life though Robert is adamant he doesn't want any involvement. However, when Rebecca is rushed to the hospital with sudden stomach pains, Aaron convinces him to go to the hospital to check everything is ok. The next day, Aaron and Robert learn that Rebecca has left and Robert believes it's for the best.

Development

Casting

Jake Roche auditioned for the role of Aaron, however, it was actor Danny Webb who was eventually cast.^[5][6] Aaron first appeared in Emmerdale in 2003 as a recurring character.^[6] In 2008, Aaron was reintroduced as a full-time cast member and the decision was made to recast the part.^[2][7] Former Grange Hill actor Danny Miller successfully auditioned for the role of Aaron.^[8] Miller admitted in an interview with Sue Crawford of The People that he would have quit acting for good if he had not landed the role.^[8] On 20 December 2016, Aaron was temporarily recast with new actor Bryan Parry taking on the role for an episode focusing on the viewpoints of dementia patient Ashley Thomas.^[9]

Characterisation

Violent, angry and always in trouble, the character quickly established himself as the 'baddest' of bad boys. Describing Aaron, Lucy Pargeter (Chas Dingle) said "Aaron's an absolute pain in the arse for Chas. Danny Miller, who plays him, is brilliant. He gives so much and he's only young".^[10]

Sexuality

A high-profile storyline for the character was when he began to question his sexual orientation. As the storyline progressed, Aaron was seen struggling to come to terms with his sexuality, before admitting the truth to his friend and guardian Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt).^[11] Miller admits that he was apprehensive when the Emmerdale writers approached him and told him they were making Aaron gay. Miller said "Being a straight actor and having to kiss another lad, I'm not going to lie, I was a bit worried about it, because it's a great test of your acting skills."^[8]

Miller's co-star, Dominic Brunt has praised the storyline and told Media and Entertainment website, Digital Spy, that "It's done more realistically than I've seen in a soap." He went on to describe Aaron as being a homophobic homosexual, who doesn't like what he is.^[12] Miller has stated that he is enjoying the challenge presented by the storyline saying "It's definitely been a big challenge – I feel a big responsibility to get this right and portray it in a way that makes it real, because there are so many lads who are going through what Aaron is going through".^[13] Miller's co-star James Sutton, who previously played a gay character in Hollyoaks, has said that Miller did not need any advice for the role and said, "We've chatted but I've given him no advice – he's a great actor, he doesn't need me to give him any pointers".^[14]

Emmerdale producer Gavin Blyth explained the gay plotline to Miller saying, "There are hundreds of thousands of teenage lads out there who are struggling with it as we speak – they're sexually confused". He also added "Aaron keeps it in so much because he's worried about what people think of him".^[15] Miller has admitted that he felt "awkward" and "strange" when he filmed an intimate moment with his Emmerdale co-star Adam Thomas, who is his real-life flatmate.^[16] He said "You'd never think yourself to be in the position that these two are in. Knowing myself and knowing Adam and his long-term girlfriend, he's the last person you'd expect in that position."^[16]

Departure (2012)

On 18 November 2011, Miller announced he would be leaving Emmerdale in 2012.^[17] Of his decision to leave, Miller said "It has been an incredibly difficult decision but after three years playing Aaron and much soul-searching, I am eager to explore other roles. I am so grateful to Emmerdale for the opportunity that I have been given and have loved every moment. I will miss everyone enormously but this might not be the last we see of Aaron."^[17] Series producer Stuart Blackburn said he respected Miller's decision and was grateful for the hard work he had put into the role of Aaron.^[17] On 20 January 2012, Miller revealed the Emmerdale team were still discussing how to write out Aaron.^[18] The actor said "They keep chopping and changing [it] – I think because they want to make it quite impactful and dramatic. I hope it's not leaving in the back of a cab, but there's great storyliners and a great team there."^[18]

In February 2012, Susan Hill of the Daily Star reported Aaron would exit the village in "heartbreaking scenes" after turning down the chance to leave with his new man, Ed Roberts (Lloyd Everitt).^[19] Hill said the show's bosses were desperate to get the character's departure right and spent months coming up with a dramatic storyline.^[19] Details of what happens to stop Aaron having a happy ending were being kept under wraps.^[19] The following month, Miller and other members of the cast and crew were spotted filming Aaron's final scenes at Robin Hood Airport.^[20] Paul Millar of Digital Spy reported that Aaron's final scenes could see him on the run from the police after being accused of setting fire to the garage.^[21] Aaron made his last screen appearance on 5 April 2012.^[21]

In honour of his departure, the cast and crew made a parody video for the song "Written in the Stars" by Tinie Tempah.

Reintroduction (2014)

On 4 April 2014, Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Miller would be returning to Emmerdale.^[22] Kilkelly said that while producers had yet to officially announce the news, a show insider had confirmed Miller's return.^[22] Aaron will make his on-screen return later in the year.^[22] Aaron returned on 14 August 2014 to help Adam out of a scam that he was involved with Ross Barton and Donna Windsor.

Child sexual abuse

On 21 January 2016, a new story arc for Aaron began when he revealed to his ex-lover Robert Sugden that he was raped by his father, Gordon, when he was child. Aaron explained to Robert that Gordon repeatedly raped him throughout his childhood from the age of 8, before Gordon kicked him out.^[23] Two weeks later, on 3 February 2016, Aaron tells his mother Chas what Gordon did to him.^[24] After the emotional episode aired, Miller was overwhelmed by the response to his child abuse storyline with fans and co-stars praising his performance on Twitter.^[25] On 16 February 2016, it was announced that a new character would become involved in the storyline with Aaron; newcomer Ryan (played by George Sampson),^[26] and a second abuse victim, later revealed to be male, would come forward.^[27] A week later, it's revealed that Robert paid Ryan to lie about being abused by Gordon in order for the police to charge him.^[28] On 15 April 2016, the jury found Gordon guilty of raping Aaron.^[29]

Car crash stunt

In May 2016, new Emmerdale producer Iain Macleod reveals Aaron will heavily involves the big October storyline along with Robert. Aaron and Robert will caught in explosive and heartstopping twist. Iain says 'It's a massive, big storyline for Robron. It's funny, romantic and heartstopping in places. people will be on the edge of their seat – or possibly falling off the end of it. I think viewers want us to keep them together and they have earned the right to be together for a period. obviously there will be challenges but I’m really rooting for them, I hope that they can make it through!’ ^[30]

Reception

For his portrayal of Aaron, Miller was nominated for the "Best Newcomer Award" at the Inside Soap Awards in 2009.^[31] Miller won the "Best Actor" award at the 2011 British Soap Awards, he was also nominated for "Sexiest Male".^[32][33] Miller was nominated in the category of "Serial Drama Performance" at the 2012 National Television Awards.^[34] The character was selected as one of the "top 100 British soap characters" by industry experts for a poll to be run by What's on TV, with readers able to vote for their favourite character to discover "Who is Soap's greatest Legend?".^[35] Miller was nominated for Best Actor for the 2015 British Soap Awards and won the 2014 Best Moment in All About Soap Awards (with Ryan Hawley, who played Aaron's on-off lover Robert). He won the Best Actor Award at the 2015 TV Choice Awards. Miller has won more awards for his character than any other Emmerdale actor for their character.

A writer for Holy Soap said Aaron's most memorable moment was "His realisation about his sexuality and the emotional scenes where he told Paddy the truth."^[36] Miller revealed that he had been verbally abused in public for portraying a bad boy and a homosexual. He stated some viewers initially found it difficult to differentiate between character and actor. Miller said, "I get the odd bit of trouble here and there but nothing that I can't handle. I get people shouting stuff, names in the street, but nothing serious." He added, "There are people who think I'm the character but when they realise you're not they warm to you."^[37] Following Aaron's departure, Jaci Stephen of the Daily Mail said "Gosh, I never expected to be so devastated by Aaron's exit, but I was sobbing as much as he was. Danny Miller has delivered some extraordinary performances and will be hugely missed."^[38] Sarah Ellis of Inside Soap said that "given the impact he's had on Emmerdale, Aaron's farewell was always going to be an emotional one." The writer said that she and all of her colleagues from the publication will miss him. Ellis added that she would also "love" to watch Aaron in a spin-off series set in France.^[39] A reporter writing for the Inside Soap Yearbook 2017 named Aaron's "abuse agony" as one of the "best bits of February", describing viewers as being left "stunned" when he revealed he was abused by his father.^[40] They praised the scenes between Aaron and Chas at the seaside.^[40]

See also

• List of soap operas with LGBT characters
• List of soap opera recasts
• List of soap opera villains

References

External links

• Character profile at itv.com
• Character profile at Holy Soap