Emmerdale fans are buzzing with excitement as they speculate

that a major character from Kim Tate’s past could be making a surprise return to the soap after a 29-year absence.

The beloved and scheming Kim Tate (played by Claire King) has been a cornerstone of Emmerdale since 1989,

captivating viewers with her numerous high-profile romances and dramatic storylines.

Now, fans are convinced that Kim’s “true love,” who was tragically killed off more than two decades ago,

could be set to return – bringing chaos, heartbreak, and a whole new level of drama to the village.

Kim Tate’s Love Life: A Rollercoaster of Romance

Throughout her long history on Emmerdale, Kim has been involved in several iconic relationships. From her marriage to Frank Tate (Norman Bowler), which ended in betrayal and violence, to her more recent romance with Will Taylor (Dean Andrews), Kim’s love life has never been far from the headlines. However, one relationship stands out in the hearts of fans – her affair with Dave Glover (Ian Kelsey), a character who left a lasting impact on Kim’s life.

Back in 1995, while married to Frank, Kim embarked on an affair with Dave, a younger man who worked at Home Farm. Their passionate romance was scandalous, especially given Kim’s already tumultuous marriage. In the same year, Kim gave birth to her son, Jamie Tate, and though Frank initially believed he was the father, a secret DNA test proved otherwise. However, Kim was suspicious of the test’s accuracy and the situation led to a great deal of conflict within her marriage.

A Tragic End for Dave Glover

Sadly, the story of Kim and Dave ended in tragedy. On Christmas Day in 1996, Dave lost his life in a heroic act of bravery. During a fire at Home Farm, he managed to rescue baby Jamie from the flames but was unable to escape the fire himself. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Dave ultimately succumbed to his injuries, leaving Kim devastated. His death marked the end of one of Kim’s most passionate, if complicated, love stories.

Since then, Dave’s absence has been a lingering shadow over Kim’s character, and his death has never truly been forgotten. In fact, Kim herself has often referred to Dave as the “love of her life,” and fans have always been curious about the impact his loss had on her over the years.

The Speculation: Could Dave Glover Return?

In a recent twist, fans on a popular Emmerdale Facebook fan page have begun speculating about Dave’s potential return. While it’s well known that Dave died over two decades ago, some viewers have suggested that, in the world of soap operas, anything is possible. One fan posed the question, “Wonder if Dave Glover could ever come back?” to which others quickly joined the conversation, agreeing that his return would be a game-changer for Kim and the show.

“I loved him, Kim’s true love for sure,” one fan commented, while another added, “They should have him return.” One viewer even theorized that Dave could have been placed in witness protection, suggesting that his death may have been staged, leaving the door open for his comeback. “True, it is soap land, anything can happen!” they concluded, hinting at the possibility of a dramatic return for Dave.

Claire King’s Thoughts on Dave Glover

The speculation surrounding Dave’s return is made all the more intriguing by comments made by Kim Tate’s actress, Claire King. In 2020, King openly discussed Dave’s significance to Kim, admitting that she believes he was the true love of her life. King said, “I honestly believe that he was. I think she still believes that it was possibly Dave’s baby. Frank went to get a test done but he had to bribe them so there’s still that grey area although Jamie thinks Frank’s his father and Kim’s let that ride. I think in her heart of hearts she still thinks there’s a possibility it could be his.”

King’s remarks have sparked further interest in the idea that Kim may never have fully moved on from Dave. Despite her tumultuous relationships with other men, including her recent partnership with Graham Foster, Kim’s lingering feelings for Dave have remained a key part of her character development.

What Would a Dave Return Mean for Emmerdale?

If Dave were to return to Emmerdale, it would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the village. Kim’s reaction to his reappearance would be the focal point of the story, as fans would be eager to see how this reunion would affect her relationship with Jamie, who has always believed Frank Tate to be his father. Dave’s return could also have significant repercussions for Kim’s current relationships, particularly with Will Taylor, as she is forced to confront her unresolved feelings for her former lover.

While it remains to be seen if the soap will take the leap and bring Dave back from the dead, the speculation alone has fans excited. With Emmerdale known for its dramatic twists and unexpected returns, Dave’s reappearance could be a thrilling storyline that would certainly keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

As always, Emmerdale fans will have to wait and see if this intriguing theory becomes reality. But one thing’s for sure – if Dave Glover does return, Kim Tate’s life will never be the same again.