Emmerdale Teases Comeback of Beloved Star in Sugden Plot
Emmerdale fans are convinced that a former resident is heading back to the Dales and a Robert Sugden twist will leave him floored
Soap viewers are buzzing with speculation that a familiar face might stroll back into Emmerdale, setting up a tantalising twist for Robert Sugden’s storyline.
Robert (portrayed by Ryan Hawley) staged a dramatic return to the Dales after a six-year absence. Audiences will remember his incarceration back in 2019, following the m.u.r.d.e.r of Lee Posner (played by Kris Mochrie), who had assaulted his sister Victoria (Isabel Hodgins).
Once wedded to Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller), Robert saw his former husband move on and tie the knot with John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), his half-brother.
The fresh-faced John, who arrived on the scene last year, is cloaked in mystery, harbouring dark secrets including the m.u.r.d.e.r of much-loved local Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter), whose body he concealed in a nearby river.
However, Robert has reclaimed his place in the village and settled down with his sister Victoria, embarking on a quest to mend his life, reports Belfast Live.
Haunted by suspicions about John’s veiled past, Robert is on a mission to uncover the truth of the covert m.u.r.d.e.r.e.r while endeavouring to rekindle romance with Aaron.
But now, fans are piecing together clues suggesting the imminent return of Seb, the child of Robert and Rebecca (Emily Head), taking Robert utterly by surprise.
A fervent follower on an Emmerdale Facebook discussion group expressed their hunch: “I think Seb will be returning soon. I’m guessing this might be why they k.i.l.l.e.d Rebecca, so that Robert could have custody of him and bring him back to the village,” sparking further conversation and theories among the fanbase.
Some viewers shared the same sentiment, with one commenting: “You could be into something! It will be interesting to see how that goes down with Robert, Ross and Aaron who all have a connection to the little boy.”
Another fan agreed, suggesting: “Yeah he should be back seeing as Robert has returned.”
Seb arrived in 2017, and the following year, he relocated to Liverpool with Rebecca and her partner Ross Barton. However, when Ross made his comeback to the programme in 2024, it was revealed that Rebecca had tragically passed away due to complications during surgery, resulting in Seb being sent to live with Rebecca’s aunt in Bristol.
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm