Viewers of ITV’s hit drama The Bay are expressing deep concern for DI Tony Manning’s fate after Tuesday’s (4th March) tension-filled episode.

The show, currently in its fifth season’s third episode, saw heightened drama as the investigation into Hannah’s death intensified.

The latest chapter was rife with drama as the team, including DI Tony Manning (played by Daniel Ryan), DS Jenn Townsend (Marsha Thomason), Karen Hobson (Erin Shanagher) and Chris Fischer (Barry Sloane), responded heatedly to the arrest at a vigil held for Hannah, and later to the autopsy results revealed.

As DI Manning exhibited signs of distress and agitation during the confrontation, fans took to social media fearing for his well-being, with many speculating that he might soon suffer a heart attack.

One anxious fan of The Bay posted on Twitter: “I swear DI manning is heading for a heart attack, he’s actually a pretty decent character too! #thebay,” while another warned: “Heart attack incoming #TheBay.”

Echoing these worries, another viewer expressed, “Tony Manning is heading for a Heart Attack or something. I can just feel it,” and another tweet conveyed a similar concern: “I’m worried DI Manning is heading for a heart attack, I hope I’m wrong.”

Someone else stated: “If anything happens to Manning I’m out #SaveTheBay #TheBay.”

Another fan expressed concern for DI Manning’s well-being, urging showrunners: “The Boss doesn’t seem well at times, I think DI Manning needs to take it easier, but how can he in such a demanding job? The writers need to look after his character, he’s crucial to #TheBay.”

In another twist, Karen’s actions at a vigil land her in hot water when she becomes embroiled in a scuffle between police and protestors.

Attempting to de-escalate the situation, Karen is knocked over while trying to assist a young girl being arrested, reports the Manchester Evening News.

To her dismay, the arresting officer files an official complaint against her, leaving her reeling from the incident.

The Bay airs on ITV1 on Tuesdays and Sundays at 9pm. Episodes are also available to stream on ITVX.