Fans of Emmerdale have rejoiced at the ‘return’ of Kelvin Fletcher to the soap, almost ten years after Andy Sugden left the Dales. However, there’s a caveat – Kelvin won’t be reprising his role, but will instead be hosting a new podcast – sorry, Vodcast – on soaps with his wife, Liz.
The couple, who were married in 2015 and share four children together, currently star in the ITV show Fletcher’s Farm together, in which they share the trials and tribulations of their life on a farm in the Peak District.
Kelvin hasn’t left soapdom behind entirely though – and, posting to Emmerdale’s official Instagram account, he and Liz announced their Vodcast debut with a new video. They were joined by guest Claire Sweeney, who plays Cassie Plummer on Coronation Street.
Kelvin and Liz will host a new ITV soaps Vodcast (Credit: ITV)
Kelvin and Liz Fletcher announce soap news
“Hey guys, we’ve got some exciting news,” said Liz as the announcement began, “we are the hosts of the brand new Vodcast, which is a video podcast in case you didn’t know, of Off Script: Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Where we’re going to be talking all about soaps, and to all of the actors.”
Former Strictly contestant Kelvin continued: “And today we’ve got our first special guest… the fantastic Claire Sweeney! Watch on YouTube, ITVX, STV Player, Global Player…”
“Or wherever you get your podcasts,” Liz finished.
Kelvin played Andy Sugden for 20 years (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale fans celebrate as Kelvin Fletcher announces new soap ‘Vodcast’
In the comments below the announcement, soap fans shared their enthusiasm for the Fletcher Family Farm stars’ latest venture.
“DOING GOD’S WORK,” cheered one fan, “GIVING THE CROWD WHO THEY WANT!!”
“This is the best news! All of our favourite people in one place 🤠of course with the best hosts!” said another.
“Wonderful,” a third commented.
Meanwhile, a fourth said what we’re all thinking: “Andy return when tho.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
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Jo Sugden was the manipulative man-stealer who ended up being a victim of domestic violence at the hands of her husband Andy.
Jo made some friends, and a lot of enemies in her three years in Emmerdale, but when things got tricky, the locals all stepped up for her.
Here’s everything that happened in her time in the village.
Jo was a bit of a minx when she first arrived in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jo’s arrival in Emmerdale
Jo Stiles came to Emmerdale as the new receptionist at the vet’s and immediately caught the eye of some of the men in the village!
She hit it off with Danny Daggert but after they went on a date, he agreed he was too tame for a bad girl like Jo! And from there, it was clear Jo was trouble.
She invented an online girlfriend for Paddy. Jo had good intentions but things backfired when Paddy announced he was off to Portugal to meet Fireblade – the woman Jo had invented.
When Paddy came home with a woman called Toni, who claimed to be Fireblade, Jo was worried. She knew that Toni wasn’t Fireblade, but to point it out would mean admitting she’d been catfishing poor Paddy.
As it turned out, Toni was Danny’s cousin, and she and Paddy had twigged what Jo was doing and were paying her back!
Jo seduced Andy and he definitely didn’t put up much of a fight! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jo’s affair with Andy
Jo moved into Butler’s with Andy Sugden and his former wife Katie, who had reconciled but were struggling financially. There was chemistry between Jo and Andy, and eventually they began an affair.
When Katie found out, she was furious and moved out. Jo lost her job at the vet’s after she uncovered some dodgy dealings with invoices. Hari – the vet who was doing the dodgy dealings – fired Jo to keep his own secrets.
But despite that, Jo and Andy seemed happy. They even got engaged! But their wedding plans were disrupted when Andy confessed to arson!
He fessed up to setting the fire that killed his adoptive mum Sarah Sugden. Andy was sentenced to three years in prison and instead of their dream wedding, he and Jo tied the knot behind the walls of the jail.
Jo Sudgen all alone
While Andy was inside, Jo carried on looking after his daughter, Sarah, but they ran into trouble when Andy’s old cellmate Charlie Sellers arrived. He began harassing Jo and little Sarah, and making threats.
Terrified, Jo went to Sarah’s mum, Debbie Dingle, and asked for help. With some assistance from Chas, and local crime family the Macfarlanes, they scared Charlie off.
When Andy was paroled, he wanted Jo to adopt Sarah, but Debbie didn’t do the paperwork. Andy was fuming, but Jo let Debbie spend time with her daughter.
When Andy found out, he angrily went to get Sarah back. Jo tried to stop him, and he accidentally slapped her, giving her a black eye. Andy was horrified – or so he said – and promised never to do it again.
But things actually got much worse. Andy continued to hit Jo, even sending her to hospital.
Sweet-natured Sam Dingle realised what was happening, but when he told his family they didn’t believe him, until Sarah drew a disturbing picture!
Andy was violent towards Jo (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Spinning lies
Desperate to stop the violence, Jo lied that she was pregnant. But of course Andy realised she wasn’t telling the truth and another scuffle broke out. This time, Jo retaliated, shoving Andy. He stumbled on to a farm tool and was impaled! Jo fled the scene, but Andy’s brother Daz found him and called an ambulance.
Andy managed to spin the whole thing to make himself appear the victim.
It was Val who managed to get through to Andy’s stepmum, Diane, in the end. And once Diane realised Jo was telling the truth, Katie followed after Andy got verbally abusive with her, too.
Realising she’d never be free of Andy, Jo planned to leave. She originally wanted to take little Sarah with her, but changed her mind at the last minute, and left the tot with Debbie instead.
After she’d gone, Jo gave a statement about Andy’s violence as part of his battle with Debbie for custody of Sarah. Jo’s written evidence meant Andy withdrew his application for custody. His divorce from Jo was finalised off-screen in 2009.
Who played Jo?
Jo Sugden was played by Roxanne Pallett. She’d appeared in Hollyoaks and A&E before she joined Emmerdale.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Nothing says Christmas in soap like action-packed weddings, and Emmerdale has gifted us some highly memorable ones.
During the soap’s 52 year history no fewer than seven couples have got spliced over the festive period. It would have been nine if it wasn’t for Chas Dingle dumping cheating Carl King at the altar, and another groom dying on his wedding day.
Let’s take a look back at these festive weddings and relive all the shocks and surprises…
Kim and Frank’s second wedding was a grand affair (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Frank and Kim Tate
Frank and Kim hoped it would be second time lucky when they said I do on December 22, 1994. The couple’s first marriage had ended in divorce following Kim’s affair with handsome stockbroker, Neil Kincaid. But they were reunited after Frank saved Kim’s life during the plane crash of 1993.
In a break from the usual setting of St Mary’s, Kim and Frank opted to get hitched outside of Emmerdale in the rather grand Ripon Cathedral. Keen horse-woman Kim looked breathtaking in a corseted high-necked lace gown complete with a white dressage hat and veil.
The ceremony was followed by dinner and dancing, as the locals gathered to wish the newlyweds well. But the day ended on a sour note when Frank went to present Kim with her wedding gift – an expensive car – and found the motor had been nicked!
Biff and Linda’s big day ended in tragedy (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Linda Glover and Biff Fowler
Linda and Biff’s 1996 wedding day was full of drama, from beginning to end. First up the groom-to-be woke up nursing a huge hangover, which was not made any better by Seth Armstrong‘s herbal-cure-all-remedy.
Then Biff’s mum Sandra rocked up and tried to talk her son out of going ahead with the wedding, but thankfully she didn’t succeed. Biff and Linda exchanged vows in front of their nearest and dearest, while Jack Sugden acted as their wedding photographer.
Earlier in the day Biff had learnt that his best mate, and Linda’s brother, Dave was planning to run away with Kim Tate. He caught up with Dave at the reception and begged him to reconsider. But tragedy struck that night as Dave was killed rescuing Kim’s baby son James from a fire at Home Farm.
So what should have been the happiest day of Linda and Biff’s lives turned out to be one of the worst.
Ashley and Bernice’s happy ever after did not last long (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice Blackstock and Ashley Thomas
Ashley and Bernice were total opposites, but their adorable love story captured a nation. Nearly 10 million viewers tuned in to see the ditsy barmaid marry her vicar on Christmas Day 2000.
Unlike the majority of Emmerdale weddings, this one actually went without a hitch. Even Bernice’s estranged father, Rodney, managed to watch the ceremony without causing scene.
Bernice looked radiant in an ivory gown and veil, and carried a bouquet of red roses. And proud groom Ashley donned his traditional dog collar.
Unfortunately the couple’s happy ever after wasn’t to be. Less than a year after promising to remain faithful, Bernice was unable to resist the lure of sexy chef Carlos Diaz. She fell pregnant and gave birth to baby Gabby, who had to undergo a DNA test to determine who her daddy was. Classy stuff.
Tom’s sons objected to his choice of bride (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Tom King and Rosemary Sinclair
Tom and Rosemary were as vile as one another, in other words the perfect match. Nearly everyone was opposed to them as a couple, particularly Tom’s sons Jimmy, Matthew and Carl who believed Rosemary was a gold-digger.
However, Tom was serious about Rosemary, and proved this by asking her to marry him. Their wedding date was set for Christmas Day 2006, with a church wedding and lavish after party at Home Farm.
The actual ceremony went without a hitch and was rather romantic. But it was the shocking events that unfolded at the reception that have gone down in Emmerdale history.
Tom was getting ready in his bedroom when a shadowy figure entered. An argument broke out, and Tom was pushed to his death through the upstairs window. His horrifying murder sparked the soap’s biggest ever whodunit, and even Tom’s new bride Rosemary found herself in the frame.
The odds were stacked against David and Alicia on their wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Alicia Gallagher and David Metcalfe
Alicia and David took centre stage when they tied the knot during Emmerdale’s 2013 festive episode. The couple’s decision to get married on Christmas Day did not please everyone, particularly David’s ex Priya Sharma, who was expecting his baby at the time.
But Priya wasn’t the only problem Alicia and David had to contend with.
On the morning of the nuptials. David was struck down by a grim sickness bug and panicked he wouldn’t be able to make it through the ceremony without puking. Alicia found her boiler had broken so couldn’t get ready at home. She went over to The Woolpack where future stepmum Val Pollard offered to style her hair, then burnt it!
There was also a last-minute dress disaster, but Alicia and David did end the day as husband and wife.
Andy and Katie’s Christmas wedding was one to remember (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale Christmas weddings: Katie Addyman and Andy Sugden
Christmas Day 2014 marked the second trip down the aisle for Andy Sugden and Katie Addyman. The couple’s first marriage was destroyed by Katie’s affair with brother-in-law Robert. And 10 years later he was out to cause trouble again.
Days before the wedding, Andy got into a punch up with Robert, which resulted in the groom getting a black eye. But Robert was about to add insult to injury. As Katie and Andy exchanged vows in the church they discovered Robert had sabotaged their wedding rings. Inside Katie’s ring was inscribed the words ‘village bike’, and Andy had ‘village idiot’ inside his.
But Robert wasn’t the only local who wanted to cause a scene. Andy’s jealous ex-girlfriend Bernice Blackstock crashed the service and started screaming abuse at everyone. She had to be carted off by mum Diane to calm down.
By some miracle the couple did eventually get married, but their love story ended in tragedy two months later when Katie was killed by Robert.
Paddy married his lady in red (Credit: ITV)
Chas Dingle and Paddy Kirk
Christmas 2020, aka the one where we were all in lockdown, was a difficult time for millions. But Paddy and Chas brought the joy with their heartfelt wedding.
Paddy decided the holiday season was the perfect time to make an honest woman out of Chas. He secretly arranged every detail of their surprise wedding. but when Chas suggested Christmas weddings were cursed, he panicked and called it off.
Chas felt awful when she realised what Paddy had been up to. Deciding that getting hitched at Christmas wasn’t so bad after all, Chas popped on the gorgeous red gown he’d bought her and summoned Paddy to St Mary’s, where she asked him to marry her!
In front of a congregation of three (Paddy’s best mate Marlon, his dad Bear and Chas’s son Aaron), the happy couple exchanged vows. Afterwards they went back to The Woolpack, which the locals had transformed into a winter wonderland.
Carl King wrecked his brother’s wedding day (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
And the ones that didn’t happen: Matthew King and Anna De Souza
It seemed ladies man Matthew King had finally been tamed when he popped the question to Anna De Souza. But Anna’s father, Donald – who was a rival of the King clan – refused to give his blessing.
Weeks before the wedding, Donald and Matthew got into a heated row. Donald suffered a heart attack and Matthew stood and watched him die instead of trying to help save him. The coroner ruled Donald had died from natural causes, but Matthew’s brother Carl knew what really happened.
Carl hated Matthew anyway so seized the chance to ruin his happiness. He gatecrashed Matthew and Anna’s big day and exposed the groom’s shameful secret to everyone. Unsurprisingly Anna didn’t fancy marrying Matthew after learning what he’d done to her dad. She dumped him at the altar and fled.
In revenge, Matthew tried to mow Carl down in a van, but ended up careering into a wall. He died at the scene of the crash, in Anna’s arms.
Cheating Carl King got what he deserved (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Chas Dingle and Carl King
Chas jilting love rat Carl King at the altar was the best Christmas gift fans could have asked for. The landlady had discovered her boyfriend was bedding barmaid Eve Jenson (the granddaughter of Edna Birch). But instead of just dumping him, Chas decided to bide her time to take revenge on Carl.
With cousin Charity in on her plan, Chas told Carl she was pregnant. The couple got engaged and set the date for Christmas Day 2010. Chas made all the arrangements for their festive nuptials, making sure no expense was spared. Carl was happy to meet her every wish, while Chas secretly pocketed his dosh in the process.
As the wedding day arrived, Chas waited until Carl was stood at the altar before exposing Carl’s betrayal to the entire congregation. Chas also announced she wasn’t actually pregnant and the whole thing had been a scam to extort money.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
After her dog got ran over, Paddy worries about how to tell Del the severity of the situation. He gently lets her know that Titch’s recovery may not be possible.
But it turns out Del already suspected that he was only trying to make her feel better – and the pair kiss!
However, things don’t stay smooth sailing for long, as at Andy’s barbecue, Toni decides to stir the pot.
Pretending she’s looking out for her friend, she tells Del that she believes Paddy is actually on the rebound. And she even decides that is the best moment to tell Del about Paddy confessing his love to her.
Del, obviously angry by what she heard, decides to confront Paddy – but what will he say?
Classic Emmerdale spoilers: Andy and Katie clash
Jo spots Jamie and Katie in a deep conversation at Butlers Farm, and tells Andy she thinks Jamie is into her which doesn’t go down well.
At his barbecue the pair spend more time talking, so Andy gets drunk. When Katie later finds him, he confesses he hates seeing her flirt with Jamie.
As they argue, Andy brings up Katie’s history, which leaves her shocked at his anger. She tries to remind him that her past is in the past and she has apologised for everything.
Katie explains that she isn’t the one doing any flirting, but she can’t help it if someone else flirts with her. Andy gets a warning that if he can’t accept her history, they may not have a future.
Pearl decides to make silk flowers (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl gets to work
Pearl’s money problems have been getting worse and worse, causing her to make the desperate decision to take a loan from Eric. Now, she wants to pay him back.
Thinking of ideas that will help her earn money, she decides to start doing a home-working scheme making silk flowers – what could go wrong!
Later, it dawns on her just how big of a job it is and she realises she has to work through the whole night to complete the flowers.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, with am early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs weekdays on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm
Visit our Facebook page @Emmerdaleinsider for the latest Emmerdale spoilers, news and gossip. Let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @Emmerdaleinside
While Angel wrestles with the guilt of what happened, we were thinking that she’s definitely not the first Emmerdale teenager to go bad. Here’s a round-up of the other youngsters who went right off the rails…
Nice boy Robert Sugden turned moody and aggressive by his teens (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Robert Sugden
Robert Sugden had lost two mums by the time he reached his teens, and caught his dad cheating, so in some ways it’s no surprise that all that heartbreak made him cold and manipulative.
As a younger teen, Robert was involved in the car accident that left a teacher dead – more on that later. He didn’t learn his lesson, though, as just a couple of years later he crashed his car and scarpered, leaving girlfriend Elaine unconscious. Then he lied about it! He even had a romance with much older Nicola Blackstock (now King). URGH.
Andy’s arson attack caused all sorts of trouble (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Andy Sugden
Andy and Robert were once best friends – that’s why the Sugden family took Andy in as a troubled youngster. But Robert’s jealousy made things tricky as Andy tried his best to prove he was a proper member of the family.
Unfortunately for Andy and his adopted mum Sarah, that meant him torching the barn in a misguided attempt to solve the family’s financial troubles. Unbeknownst to Andy, Sarah was inside the barn. She died and though Jack got the blame at first, it was Andy who eventually ‘fessed up. Robert never really forgave him.
Lachlan was awkward and odd, but when he first came to the village he was sweetly supportive to Belle Dingle and encouraged her to get help for her mental health issues.
But it was when he befriended Jacob Gallagher that things took a turn. Lachlan became overly interested in Jacob’s mum, Alicia, and even bought her an expensive handbag as a present, which Alicia returned. Lachlan sexually assaulted Alicia, and eventually his mum Chrissie reported him to the police.
That was only the start for Lachlan. He went on to shoot his grandfather Lawrence, kill his mum and Lawrence in a car crash he caused, murder fan fave Gerry and a conman who was posing as Gerry’s uncle, and kidnap his aunt Rebecca and hold her hostage!
Thankfully, Lachlan’s now behind bars!
Marc was driving but the teenagers were all involved (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale kids gone back: The teens in 2002
In 2002, the village teens – Robert and Andy Sugden, Ollie and Marc Reynolds, Donna Windsor, Katie Addyman and Eve Birch – planned a night out in Hotten.
When they missed the last bus home, Andy tried to impress his mates by stealing a car. Marc got behind the wheel and they set off for home, only to hit someone walking in the road.
Horrified, the joyriders realised they had hit and killed their headteacher, Miss Strickland!
They torched the car and covered up what they’d done, as the village mourned the loss. But Marc’s conscience got the better of him and despite the others trying to stop him, he went to the police.
He tried to take the full blame but his friends admitted they were also involved.
Marc was sent to Young Offenders, just like Angelica, while the other teens got community service.
Thomas King had an outburst at Carl’s funeral and tormented Chas (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Tom King
Back in 2013, Tom King was known as Thomas and he had a vendetta against his dad Carl’s ex, Chas Dingle.
Chas had recently been found not guilty of murdering Carl. She didn’t kill him – that had been Dales serial killer, Cameron Murray – though she had believed she’d committed the crime for a while.
But even after Chas was let off, Thomas still thought she was guilty. He began a campaign of harassment against Chas, sending her creepy photos with the eyes scratched out, throwing bottles at her, trashing the pub living room and generally making her life a misery. And it looks like he hasn’t changed a bit!
No, we’re not sure why she didn’t bring this up when Belle got together with him, either!
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Darren ‘Daz’ Eden arrived in Emmerdale in 2003 looking for his half brother, Andy Sugden. He was initially a troublemaker, but managed to reform.
He had a strained relationship with his brother, particularly when it came to Andy’s relationships with Katie and Jo. Daz had his own romantic connections, most notably with Victoria, who many saw as Daz’s sibling.
Here is Daz’s story.
He loved to cause chaos (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)
Daz the troublemaker
Daz arrived in the Dales in October 2003 searching for his half brother, Andy Sugden. The two shared the same dad – Billy Hopwood.
He was initially a tearaway and immediately took to stealing cars. Daz drove away in Robert’s car, crashing into hay bales in the process. He later stole some more cars, including Jack’s.
When he was punished by being sentenced to community service, he was hoping to do this at Scott’s garage, but Scott refused, meaning Daz would have to go to a young offenders institute. Daz got his revenge by setting fire to the garage.
Relationship with his brother
When Daz came to the village, Andy was in a relationship with Katie. Katie was having an affair with Andy’s brother Robert, which was discovered by Daz.
Katie threatened Daz and told him that Andy wouldn’t believe him. This turned out to be the case and Katie persuaded Andy to put Daz into care. But when the truth finally came out, Andy visited Daz and persuaded him to come back to the farm.
However, after finally feeling secure and loved by his brother, Andy surprised Daz by getting back with Katie. Daz told Andy he had to choose between him and Katie – Andy chose Katie. Daz then moved in with Jack.
They faced further trouble later on when Daz discovered Andy had been hitting girlfriend Jo. Daz punched Andy but immediately regretted it as he didn’t want to be like Andy or his dad.
Daz’s mum and dad
Daz’s mum Denise did not appear in many Emmerdale episodes, but when she did, she managed to convince her son she was a changed woman. Daz briefly left the Dales to go live with her, but returned a couple of months later.
Denise returned and insisted Daz make amends with her boyfriend, but he refused. When Diane and Jack decided to start adoption proceedings for Daz, Denise was happy to allow it.
However, Daz’s dad Billy – who was in prison – was not as keen. He felt the Sugdens had already stolen one of his sons.
Upon his release from prison, Billy arrived in the Dales. He got a job and tried to make amends with his sons. Andy told him that Jack was his dad, but Billy did manage to bond with Daz. The relationship was later damaged though when Billy had an affair with Diane.
Daz had a brief fling with Victoria (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)
Romantic connection with Victoria and Emmerdale exit
After having a crush on Jasmine Thomas, Daz dated Penny Drury. He then met Scarlett Nicholls, the daughter of Tom King, in 2007. Scarlett took a liking to him immediately and they eventually got together.
However, while he was with Scarlett, he formed a deep connection with Victoria Sugden, who was like a sister to him. The two kissed on Christmas Day in 2008 and then slept together a few months later. Victoria thought this meant they could be a couple, but Daz said it was a mistake and he wanted to stay with Scarlett.
To get revenge, Victoria slept with Aaron at Daz’s house and they were caught by Scarlett and Daz. Daz was angry and went for Aaron before Victoria blurted out that it was Daz’s fault as he didn’t want her any more. Realising they had more than a brother/sister relationship, Aaron and Scarlett were disgusted.
Aaron immediately told Andy, who was equally disgusted. He told Daz to leave and never return. Daz did just that. On his way out of the village, he stopped by the farm to see if he could get a last glimpse of Victoria, but he quickly left as he didn’t want to risk Andy seeing him.
Who played Daz Eden?
Daz was played by Luke Tittensor. Luke has a twin brother, Elliott, who is also an actor. The twins shared the role of Carl Gallagher in Shameless before Elliott took on the role on his own.
Luke then landed the role of Daz in Emmerdale. After leaving Emmerdale, Luke played Connor in Waterloo Road. He has also appeared in Casualty, Holby City and Moving On.
More recently, he secured the role of Ser Arryk Cargyll in House of the Dragon, alongside his twin brother, who plays Ser Erryk Cargyll.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Emmerdale know how to give us an iconic comeback. The past few years have seen the return of legendary characters such as Kim Tate, Aaron Dingle and most recently, Ross Barton.
This lot belong in the Dales, and it’s got us thinking about which other former villagers we’d love to see again.
Here is our dream wish list of the 11 people we want to see make a comeback ASAP…
Robert and Aaron were the real deal (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
The scheming Sugden was one of Emmerdale’s most interesting and complex characters. But it was Rob’s addictive romance with Aaron Dingle that made his popularity soar.
The couple’s adoring army of supporters followed their journey, and were gutted when it came to an end in 2019. Robert was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the manslaughter of his sister Victoria’s rapist Lee Posner. It has since transpired Lee’s brother, Luke, may have been to blame for his sibling’s fatal injuries. Now this sounds like an obvious get-out-of-jail card for Aaron’s ex.
So far, four actors have played the role of Robert. But we don’t think the fans would be happy unless Ryan Hawley stepped back into the character’s shoes. His on-screen chemistry with Danny Miller was a major part of Robert’s appeal.
If Robert did make a return, then he’s got a rival for Aaron’s affections – in the form of his own half-brother! Viewers have already speculated that John’s arrival in the village is laying the groundwork for an explosive love triangle. We’d love to watch Robert and John fighting it out over Aaron, and we know who we’d have money on to win. What Robert Sugden wants, he normally gets.
Adam is needed back in the village (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Adam Barton
Shoutout to Adam Barton. Wherever you are, mate, then you’re needed back in Emmerdale.
The character’s name has come up in conversation in recent weeks, amidst Moira’s battle with a non-cancerous brain tumour. After missing her life-saving surgery, Moira has decided to go and spend some time with her eldest son.
But will she return to the village with Adam in tow? We certainly hope so.
Adam was last seen on screen in January 2018 when he went on the run after deciding to take the rap for Moira over Emma Barton’s murder. Opting for a life as a fugitive, Adam fled to France and has been laying low ever since. But this is Soapland, so surely the coast is clear for him to make a comeback? Actor Adam Thomas has always expressed an interest in revisiting the role he played for nine years.
Not only would Adam’s return give Moira a boost, and Matty some much needed sibling support, but it might also give his ex-wife, Victoria a purpose. She’s been like a lost soul since her break-up with Jacob, and aside from interfering in John’s life, what actually does Vic do?
Adam and her were great together – we’d like to see them get a second chance at happiness.
Sorely missed mother of the village (Credit: ITV)
Diane Sugden
Diane was such an amazing, comforting presence, no wonder why all the locals loved her.
As landlady of The Woolpack for 17 years, Diane was the beating heart of the village and a friend to all. The Sugden matriarch also dealt with her fair share of drama – from surviving cancer, to being stabbed in the dark, and ripped off by her conman lover.
Actress Elizabeth Estensen, who played Diane for 22 years, announced her retirement in 2021. In a statement at the time she said: “I now feel the time has come to say goodbye. Emmerdale will always remain special to me.”
It seems highly unlikely we’ll ever see Diane back on a permanent basis, but we’d love her to pop back just for a little catch up. If nothing else, then just to check in with her loved ones. Diane’s bestie Chas has just come off the back of the toughest two years of her life so we’re sure she’d appreciate a visit.
We think Joe Tate has a lot more to give (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale characters we want back: Joe Tate
It feels like there’s unfinished business as far as Joe Tate is concerned, which is why we’re in favour of him returning.
The orphaned son of Chris Tate and Rachel Hughes made a huge impact when he came to the village in 2018 under the alias of Tom Waterhouse. With his scheming and womanising ways Joe quickly proved to be a chip off the old block. But just as Chris had done, Joe underestimated Kim Tate – to his peril.
After realising Joe had been fleecing her, Kim ordered Graham Foster to dispose of him. At the same time, Joe was attacked by Cain in revenge for him breaking off his engagement to Debbie.
Joe was presumed dead for five months, until it was revealed he’d escaped with his life and £100k of Kim’s cash. As far as we know he’s still living it up in Monte Carlo, but we think it’s time he came back to settle some old scores.
Why has Debbie not been recast? (Credit: ITV)
Debbie Dingle
Debbie was such a major part of the Dingle family that we’d never rule out her return.
Cain and Charity’s feisty daughter relocated to Scotland back in February 2021 with her young son Jack. Debbie had also been living with her grandfather Zak until his recent passing, and was the one who broke the sad news.
Speculation was rife amongst fans that Debbie would accompany Zak’s body back to the village. But when Cain arrived in Scotland to see his daughter she told him she couldn’t face the funeral.
So it seems we’re going to have a wait a while longer to see Debbie again. But we’re sure Cain, Charity and Sarah would all love to have her back. And the return of Debbie’s ex, Ross Barton, throws up even more enticing possibilities.
Sadie King was a master manipulator (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jimmy King’s former missus was a ruthless, money-hungry seductress, who was played to perfection by the brilliant Patsy Kensit. After wrecking havoc for two years, Sadie left the village in shame when she was double-crossed by Cain Dingle.
Nearly two decades have passed, but can you imagine the scenes if Cain ever saw Sadie again? And what would Charity do if she came face-to-face with her former foe? Even the thought of that showdown is exciting. Then there’s soppy old Jimmy. He was like putty in Sadie’s hands – we’re sure she could get under his skin again and threaten his marriage to Nicola.
We could also see Sadie teaming up with fellow queen, Kim Tate. Together, these two would be a force to be reckoned with!
Andy Sugden was one of Emmerdale’s best-loved characters (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Andy Sugden
If Emmerdale really want to put the Sugdens back on the map, then Andy must come home.
The iconic character, played by Kelvin Fletcher from 1996 to 2016, grew up on our screens and was loved by millions. Andy was at the centre of so many brilliant storylines, and could always be relied on to deliver the drama.
Every year, rumours start swirling about Andy coming back to the village. There’s definitely still a place for him there, with old friends and family ties. Might we see him back in 2025?
Serial killer Meena would come back with a bang (Credit: ITV)
Meena Jutla
Serial killer Meena is safely behind bars, serving life for multiple murders. But is it wrong we wish she’d stage a prison break?
Soap villains don’t get much better than this mad lass. During her reign of terror in the Dales, Meena killed Leanna Cavanagh, Andrea Tate and Ben Tucker. And she’d already claimed the lives of her best mate Nadine and her own dad. Yikes!
Meena was different from a lot of baddies in that she was so unhinged and psychotic it was actually entertaining to watch. She stalked her prey with pleasure and made her own playlist of murder karaoke! Actress Paige Sandhu also did an incredible job of playing such a crackers character.
So as ludicrous as the plot would have to be, we’d relish the return of the village’s answer to Villanelle. And there’s one or two locals we wouldn’t mind Meena adding to her body count. No names mentioned…
We want Nicky back in the Miligan family fold (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale characters we want back: Nicky Miligan
One of the biggest mistakes Emmerdale made this year was getting rid of Nicky Miligan.
Things were just starting to get interesting for the character what with Ruby’s arrival and watching him referee her and Caleb’s toxic spats. But after discovering his parents had conspired to cover up Ruby running over Ethan Anderson, Nicky disowned them and left for new life overseas with boyfriend, Sonny. To be fair, we can’t blame him on that one.
Nicky hasn’t spoken to his folks since, and Ruby is desperate for a reconciliation. Caleb would also surely welcome his son’s assistance as he continues his bid for Dales domination. And Nicky has already shown he can be useful right hand man – he certainly did a very good job of conning poor Gabby Thomas.
Ruby has gone to visit him now, but he still won’t forgive dad Caleb. And with news of daughter Stephanie’s arrival incoming, it’s surely a great time to reunite the Miligan family and put them on top of Emmerdale.
There was never a dull moment with Bernice (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Bernice Blackstock
Bernice brought her own brand of ridiculous, camp entertainment and the village is definitely less fun without her in it.
The legendary former landlady had been causing chaos since her arrival 1998. But given her brilliance, we think Emmerdale did Bernice dirty by giving her such a rushed – and frankly rubbish – exit. Viewers will remember Bernice was forced to flee to Spain after wracking up a fraudulent debt. She sold her B&B shares to sister Nicola, and with that she was off.
Gabby gave Paddy a recent update on Bernice, saying she’s ‘causing carnage on the Costa’ and ‘falling out of love every five minutes’. She also admitted how much she misses her mum. We do too, Gabs.
Wouldn’t it be great to see Bernice back?
We’d love nothing more than a Belle and Piper reunion (Credit: ITV)
Piper the dog
Our comeback wish list wouldn’t be complete without a certain fur baby. The adorable Piper.
Belle was left heartbroken earlier this year after Tom led her to believe her beloved pet had been run over and killed. The evil vet watched his wife grieve for Piper as he orchestrated a fake funeral. But then it was revealed Piper was alive and well and had been secretly re-homed with another couple.
Tom’s wicked web of deceit is finally starting to unravel, and we’re hoping the writers are going to find a way to bring Piper back into Belle’s life. After all the hell she’s been through, she deserves a happy ending with her four-legged friend.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In Classic Emmerdale spoilers for episodes airing on ITV3 on Friday November 1 Katie and Andy decide to get back together and Jasmine hits out at Noreen. These episodes originally aired on March 28 and 29 2006.
Jack isn’t impressed by Katie and Andy’s reunion (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Katie and Andy get back together in Classic Emmerdale
Katie has stayed at Chas’s after Andy told her to leave. She confides she had hoped they could get back together, but he has made it clear he’s not interested. Katie is upset he’s turned his back on her.
Chas suggests maybe Andy thought she and Kieran were back on and he got the wrong idea. Katie decides she needs to have it out with Andy and lays it all on the line. She tells him she loves him.
Andy, who has told Daz he can move back home as Katie gone for good, reveals he feels the same, but he is afraid to take her back. He thinks she will leave him again. But Katie reassures him and Andy can’t resist. They fall back into each other’s arms.
However, when Andy doesn’t arrive to collect Daz, Jack takes him to the farm instead. They are stunned to catch Katie and Andy together and to discover she is going nowhere. Will Daz get over this?
Jack is convinced their union is doomed and Katie and Andy decide to front it out at the Woolpack. But will they get the reception they were expecting?
Katie soon decides to face up to Jack and Daz and tell them that she won’t break Andy’s heart again. She begs them to accept her, but can they?
Poor Noreen is the victim of Jasmine’s attempts to impress Debbie (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jasmine is a mean girl
Debbie and Jasmine hang out at the cricket pavilion and Jasmine tries to impress Debbie by breaking in.
Daz is hovering nearby and Jasmine goes to check he’s okay. As Daz confides he’s worried about losing his brother, Jasmine offers comfort, but is soon called back by Debbie leaving Daz all alone.
The next day Jasmine is ditching her friends all over again to spend time with Debbie at the pavilion. She’s also neglecting her studies.
When Noreen heads to the pavilion she is shocked to see someone has broken in. Debbie is brazen about it and Noreen is angry and goes to hit her. But as Debbie tries to defend herself, Jasmine steps in and knocks off Noreen’s wig.
As upset and traumatised Noreen runs off, Debbie and Jasmine dissolve into fits of giggles.
Meanwhile, Ashley is beginning to worry that Debbie is a bad influence on Jasmine and it looks like he could be right…
Also in Classic Emmerdale today
Matthew goes behind Sadie’s back
Fed up of fighting, Matthew makes the decision to accept Jimmy’s offer. He will sell his and Sadie’s shares at a reduced price of £180K. But Matthew doesn’t tell Sadie about the deal…
Alice and Sam are the perfect family
With Samson doing well, Alice and Sam proudly take him around the village to show him off for the first time. But Alice has another chemo session before too long and is upset she has to leave her family behind.
Chas is lady of the manor
Tom asks Carl and Chas to move into Home Farm with him. Chas is reluctant and initially refuses, but she soon comes round to the idea that she will be lady of the manor.
The choir at war!
As Laurel tries to revive the choir, Edna and Betty can’t stop squabbling. It’s looking like a huge disaster so Laurel attempts to recruit more members. However she’s left worried when only Louise volunteers.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In Classic Emmerdale spoilers for episodes airing on ITV3 on Thursday October 31 Andy and Katie get their wires crossed with upsetting consequences. These episodes originally aired on March 26 and 27, 2006.
Jimmy’s promotion ruffles feathers
Jimmy is made MD of King & Sons and Sadie is absolutely furious when Tom delivers the news. Matthew is fuming too and demands a settlement.
Jimmy eventually offers them Holdgate as a gesture and then suggests the let the lawyers thrash everything out. Then Jimmy offers to buy Matthew out of the company. But will Matthew accept?
Adam is under pressure from Terence (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Adam under threat in Classic Emmerdale spoilers
Terence calls Adam and is very threatening, so Adam agrees to meet him. As he doesn’t put up any sort of fight about the meeting, Terence realises Adam is hiding something big as Adam would never have come otherwise.
Terence plays his hand and reveals he’s been digging into Adam’s past. Will Adam confess his major secret?
Confiding in Danny, Andy admits he still has feelings for Katie and they are strong. Danny think they’ll get back together, but is he right?
Things get complicated when Katie’s ex-boyfriend announces he’s on his way to Emmerdale. Andy hides how he really feels about it and it makes Katie think he doesn’t care about her at all.
She then tries to tell Andy how she feels, but Andy misunderstands and think she’s telling him she doesn’t want to be with him. He asks her to leave the farm. But can they sort the misunderstanding out?
Also in Classic Emmerdale today
Jasmine is upset with Debbie as she thinks she’s using her just to wind Cain up. Jasmine has a point, but will Debbie apologise?
Laurel is roped into bringing back the church choir, but she’s not too keen on the idea!
Ashley and George go to Wishing Well to give Alice and Sam money for their fundraiser. Sam is trying to be positive and insists things are going their way – Samson is okay, so Alice will be too. But is he clinging on to false hope?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In Classic Emmerdale spoilers for the episodes airing on Wednesday 30 October on ITV3, there’s drama at Sadie and Alasdair’s wedding, Daz gives Andy an ultimatum, and Debbie’s got some news for Cain.
These episodes originally aired on March 23 and 26, 2006.
Alasdair punches Matthew as shocked bride Sadie looks on (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Wedding day drama in Classic Emmerdale!
Matthew is determined to stop Sadie marrying Alasdair and races off to the wedding. But he gets lost on the way to the church. By the time he gets there, and races up the aisle, Sadie and Alasdair are already married.
Tom, Jimmy and Carl try to bustle Matthew out of the church, as he pleads with Sadie to listen. She can’t take her eyes off him and Alasdair responds by trying to usher his bride into the wedding car outside.
Ultimatum!
Meanwhile Tom tells Matthew if he chooses Sadie, he’ll lose everything. Matthew says that’s fine – without Sadie everything is meaningless. Aww!
Fuming, Alasdair floors Matthew with one punch and when Sadie rushes to Matthew’s side, it’s clear she’s made her choice!
With Sadie still in her wedding dress, she and Matthew escape on the bus!
Meanwhile, Tom’s upset to realise he’s lost another son, and thinks Matthew and Sadie can never be happy. But is he right?
Katie’s got a confession to make in Classic Emmerdale
Elsewhere, Katie’s been to her dad’s funeral and tells her mum she’s staying put in Emmerdale. But she gets upset and leaves the pub to find Andy.
She confesses she blames herself for her dad’s death becasue they were arguing when he died. But she won’t tell Andy what they were arguing about!
Later, Andy’s shocked to see Daz seems to have moved into Annie’s cottage for good. But Daz gives him an ultimatum – it’s either him or Katie.
When Katie runs out, upset, Andy sides with her, which gives Daz his answer.
Debbie kissed Jasmine to annoy her dad (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Jasmine and Debbie snog!
Ashley thinks Jasmine and Debbie’s friendship is a bit intense and speaks to the girls about it – they realise he thinks they’re romantically involved and wind him up.
When Cain gets to hear of it, he makes a dig at Debbie about her being her mother’s daughter and to spite him, Debbie grabs Jasmine and snogs her!
When Ashley tells them off for parading their sexuality in public, Debbie tells him she just did it to annoy her dad.
For richer, for poorer?
With the dust settling after the wedding drama, Sadie is furious when she hears Tom has made Jimmy MD of King & Sons. After a bit of wrangling, Jimmy offers his brother Holdgate as a goodwill gesture – will Matthew accept.
Together forever in Classic Emmerdale
Meanwhile, Andy bumps into Danny and confesses he’s still got feelings for Katie. Danny tells him they’ll be back together soon. Is he right?
Secrets and lies
Adam gets a threatening phone call from Terence and agrees to meet him. When Adam shows up, Terence realises he must have touched a nerve or Adam wouldn’t have come. Terence reveals he’s been checking up on Adam’s past – will Adam confess?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
![Lachlan White [THOMAS ATKINSON] has returned from his holiday and is relieved when Belle Dingle [EDEN TAYLOR-DRAPER] explains she doesn't listen to rumours. After having been tipped off over Belle's whereabouts, Lisa Dingle [JANE COX] orders her away from Lachlan who is mortified. Lachlan shouts over to Alicia Metcalfe [NATALIE ANDERSON], begging her to tell the truth](https://tvguide.co.uk/emmerdale-insider/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/shutterstock_editorial_4938339to.jpg)
