UPDATE: |Emmerdale fans say ‘that’s why’ John Sugden joined soap as iconic character set to ‘return’ News

Viewers are hoping that a popular character will be returning to the Dales

Emmerdale fans think they’ve figured out why John Sugden as been bought into the Dales as they predict the return of a fan-favourite.

Oliver Farnworth joined the ITV soap last year as Sugden and soon struck up a relationship with Aaron Dingle. He was revealed to be Victoria Sugden’s half-brother, and thus related to Aaron’s ex-husband, Robert Sugden.

Robert was last portrayed by actor Ryan Hawley before the character’s departure in 2019.

He was arrested and sentenced for Lee Posner’s demise, as a consequence of defending his sister Victoria from a horrific assault by Lee.

Since he left the Leeds-based soap, he appeared on Channel 5’s beloved drama All Creatures Great and Small. While there’s been no official commentary on whether or not he’ll return to Emmerdale, fans have been asking for a “Robron” reunion for some time.

Even Mike Parr, who returned as Ross Barton last year previously shared that he’d love to see Robert come back to the village.

He said: “The fan favourite is going to be Robert Sugden, isn’t it?” he said when asked who else he’d like to see back. “I would love to bring him back just to satisfy the audience because I see how thirsty they are for Ryan Hawley’s return.”

The actor added: “He’s a lot of fun to work with and when Robert and Danny [Miller] were together, they made a good villain for Ross to go against. Bring him back.”

Some fans have questioned why the soap would make John a Sugden – AKA a part of one of the original Emmerdale families – if he ends up leaving.

Although his departure has not been discussed or confirmed, his recent storyline sees him inflicting injuries upon people in order to save them.

Flashbacks showed that he accidentally killed Nate Robinson when trying to save him during the barn fire, and later dumped his body in the lake.

Now, viewers think John entered the village ready for the soap to prepare for Robert’s return, with fans hoping Aaron gets back with his ex once he sees John’s true colours – particularly as they’re now engaged.

On a Facebook fan page, one viewer wrote: “Aaron and John getting married next month. Calling it now this is when Robert comes back.” As another replied: “I’ve said this since they got engaged, perfect timing.”

Emmerdale airs on weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV1 and is available to stream on ITVX.