In a shocking twist in Emmerdale, Matty Barton faces a brutal assault, leading to heartbreaking consequences. The story unfolds with Matty ending up in the hospital after a vicious attack in prison. Earlier, Matty had already felt unsafe behind bars when the bully, Robbo, discovered Matty is a trans man, a fact unintentionally revealed by Amy Wyatt. Amy’s mistake occurred when she confused Robbo for Les, Matty’s sympathetic cellmate. After a terrifying confrontation with Robbo, Matty received more distressing news: Les, who had been a source of protection, was soon to be released.

In the episode airing on July 9, Matty was visibly distressed as Les expressed his guilt over leaving Matty alone to face Robbo’s relentless bullying. Matty, trying to hold back tears, assured Les he would manage. Seeking help, Matty spoke to a prison guard who assured him that the staff would do their best to keep him safe. However, with Robbo’s intimidation escalating, Matty realized the severity of his situation. Before leaving, Les advised Matty to stay vigilant.

Later in the episode, Amy and Moira received a distressing call from the prison informing them that Matty had been hospitalized. They rushed to the hospital to find Matty severely injured, with a fractured eye socket and bruised ribs. Amy was horrified to learn that her mix-up with Les and Robbo had put Matty at such risk. Moira, initially furious with Amy, later apologized and supported her, vowing to do everything to get Matty released from prison.

While in the hospital, Matty was visited by Les, who had been released. It was revealed that Les had beaten up Matty on purpose to get him hospitalized and temporarily away from Robbo. However, this plan brought little solace as Matty tearfully admitted he would be sent back to prison the next day. Les apologized, but Matty, filled with regret, apologized for asking Les to hurt him, feeling it had all been in vain.

The episode leaves viewers in suspense: will Matty have to face Robbo alone again? The grim reality of Matty’s situation casts a dark shadow over the storyline, highlighting the intense struggles and dangers faced behind prison walls.