fans are convinced that Kim Tate, a staple character since 1989 played by Claire King, has a secret sibling residing in the village.

Known for her dramatic storylines, from numerous feuds to faking her own death, Kim's life in the Dales has been anything but dull. Her romantic entanglements, including her marriage to Frank Tate (Norman Bowler) and recent relationship with Will Taylor (Dean Andrews), have often been the subject of village gossip.

However, last Christmas brought heartbreak for Kim when her husband Will passed away, following their tumultuous on-and-off relationship throughout the previous year.

In another twist, Kim's step-grandson Joe Tate (Ned Porteous) recently returned, arousing Kim's suspicions about his true intentions - which proved correct.

It was revealed that Joe is suffering from chronic kidney disease and, in collaboration with unscrupulous Dr Crowley (James Hillier), plans to target his blood relative, uncle Caleb (William Ash), for a kidney.

Now, viewers believe Kim is due for another family surprise, suspecting her secret brother is living in the village.

Fans of Emmerdale have been left scratching their heads as the elusive backstory of iconic character Kim Tate remains largely under wraps - despite her on-screen prominence.

Born in 1959 to a telephone engineer and a hairdresser, Kim's family life has rarely been explored beyond mentions of a younger sister in the '90s, reports Leicestershire Live.

However, speculation is mounting amongst viewers that Kim might also have a brother, one with a connection to Joe Tate no less. A devoted fan on an Emmerdale Facebook group speculated, "I'm kinda hoping that Joe's doctor is actually Kim's brother," sparking a flurry of agreement from fellow soap enthusiasts.

Excitement builds as another fan exclaimed, "Yes!" while others are riled up by the potential revelation.

With one adding, "Well she did arise from the dead back in the 90s so who knows." Another pointed out the soap's penchant for surprise connections: "Nothing surprises me given the coincidental relationships that end up in the village."

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm