Emmerdale’s Joe Tate strikes again as much-loved character is in serious danger

Joe Tate (Ned Porteous) finds himself in an usual predicament in Emmerdale – he can’t seem to get his own way.

Joe is a man used to commanding respect and having those around him kowtowing to his demands, but Billy Fletcher (Jay Kontzle) is infuriatingly refusing to do so.

He won’t show Joe an ounce of respect, and he won’t stop meddling in his romance with Dawn Taylor (Olivia Bromley). Billy causing Joe problems with the kids too and is general is just a pain in Joe’s side. He already has one of those, he doesn’t need two.

Joe tried to lure him away from the village with the promise of his dream job, but Billy was way beyond accepting a bribe that would take him away from his children.

What’s even more irritating for Joe is that he thinks Billy is still trying to one up him. He finds his car keyed and immediately suspects Billy. In response, he decides to teach Billy a lesson.

Before he can, it seems that his adversary one-ups him again. Joe discovers someone has rifled through his things and has stolen his autoimmune suppressant medication. Again, Billy is prime suspect, and Joe relays his concerns and plans to Sam (James Hooton).

Sam suggests he just confront his lover’s ex, and Joe takes the groundkeeper’s advice, but it badly backfires. Joe instead finds himself humiliated when he confronts him at the depot.

Furious, Joe plots his next move. Sam inadvertently gives him a dangerous idea when he suggests he needs another Graham to sort the situation and get him the respect he deserves.

Joe enlists Shaun, intending for him to carry out his dirty work and sort Billy out once and for all.

Is Joe going to finally get his way by getting Billy permanently out of the picture?