Emmerdale Emmerdale star reacts to shock death in explosion episode The departed cast member speaks out. Emmerdale star Reece Dinsdale has spoken out following Paul Ashdale's shock death. The actor's villainous character was killed off in Thursday's hour-long special after months of abusive behaviour towards his son Vinny. Disaster struck on the day of Paul's wedding to Mandy Dingle, as Jimmy King lost control of his truck and drove it into the couple's wedding venue. ITV Paul and Liv Flaherty were in the wedding barn at the time of the disaster and were caught up in a huge explosion caused by the crash. Later, Paul passed away in hospital after doctors were unable to save him.