Emmerdale’s Paddy Kirk star Dominic Brunt is wed to a rather well-known actress, and devotees of the soap will recognise her instantly.

Dominic has portrayed the cherished veterinarian Paddy on the ITV drama since 1997. It wasn’t long before he established himself as one of the programme’s most beloved and memorable characters.

Throughout his tenure as Paddy, Dominic has tackled numerous major plot arcs in the Dales, spanning from his character’s surprising infidelities to the devastating bereavement of his offspring.

Recently on the soap, Paddy uncovered the shocking reality that his father Bear Wolf (Joshua Richards) had fallen victim to human trafficking and been coerced into labour at a local farm, operated by villainous Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths) and Ray Walters (Joe Absolom).

During Friday’s instalment (January 8), officers informed Paddy that following their inspection of the premises, the loft where the victims were confined stood vacant, hinting that Bear may have fled. Nevertheless, they cautioned Paddy to “expect the worst”, reports the Mirror.

Beyond the drama series, Dominic enjoys a blissful marriage and is dad to two youngsters. However, certain admirers have been taken aback upon discovering his spouse’s identity.

Dominic is wedded to Joanne Mitchell, who soap enthusiasts will also recognise, having featured in numerous episodes across both Emmerdale and Coronation Street.

The performers Dominic and Joanne first crossed paths during their studies at drama college in Bristol. They exchanged vows in 2003 and are parents to two lads, Mickey-Joe and Danny Lee.

Joanne has featured in various critically acclaimed programmes and has made multiple guest appearances on Emmerdale. She has taken on four different characters throughout her time on the programme, beginning with Susan Davies, then a midwife called Yeo.

Following these were more demanding parts including DS Karen Barnborough and her latest role as Sandra Flaherty, who serves as mother and stepmother to Liv Flaherty (Izzy Steel) and Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller).

A recent photograph featuring Dominic and Joanne circulated widely across an Emmerdale Facebook fan group. The image, with the caption: “Dominic Brunt and his wife Joanne Mitchell,” stunned numerous viewers who were unaware of their real-life relationship.

“Wow I didn’t know he is married to Liv’s mum in real life,” remarked one surprised fan, whilst another commented: “That’s who that is!” A third supporter observed: “Fine actor. But I never knew his wife was Liv’s Mum in Emmerdale!” Sharing similar sentiments, another viewer expressed: “So shocked Sandra is his off-screen wife.”

During a 2022 interview, Joanne discussed collaborating with Dominic on Emmerdale, revealing to Inside Soap: “I haven’t seen Dominic at the studios yet since I’ve been back this time.”

She continued: “It’s fun to be on the same show but I’ve not actually worked with him yet. We haven’t had any scenes together as our characters live separate lives in the village.”