Emmerdale icon 'returns' after 39 years to 'save Aaron from John' (2025)

Emmerdale fans are convinced that a soap legend is set to return to the village next month, as John Sugden and Aaron Dingle's wedding edges closer and closer

Emmerdale has dropped hints about the possible comeback of a soap icon, which could spell trouble for John Sugden.

John, portrayed by Oliver Farnworth, made his debut last year, stepping into the Dales as the supposed long-lost son of Jack Sugden - portrayed by Clive Hornby - and quickly left an impression on the locals.

The mysterious doctor has since carved out a niche for himself in the village, building relationships with his newfound relatives - including sister Victoria (Isabel Hodgins). He even proposed to Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller).

However, a recent plot twist revealed some shocking truths about John, as viewers learned about his actions over the past year - including his role in the death of Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter).

But that's not all - the soap also disclosed that John was the mastermind behind the framing of Ella Forster (Paula Lane) and was responsible for drugging his future mother-in-law Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter), reports Belfast Live.

Given his erratic and dangerous behaviour, fans have voiced their concerns for Aaron, especially as the couple are in the midst of planning their wedding.

In Tuesday's episode (April 15), Chas was adamant about her decision not to marry Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson) next month, in light of the recent chaos involving Liam's ex-partner Ella.

Chas had to postpone her wedding, which meant she couldn't get a refund from the venue. However, Aaron came to the rescue and suggested a cost-saving solution to his mum Chas - he and John could use her original date.

He was disappointed when he later discussed his plans with John.

Viewers are now abuzz that next month's nuptials between John and Aaron might coincide with the thrilling comeback of a legendary soap character.

Fans of the soap have taken to the internet to air their predictions, with a strong belief that Aaron's former flame, Robert Sugden (portrayed by Ryan Hawley), could dramatically interrupt the ceremony - making a shock return to the Dales.

An ardent Emmerdale fan wrote on a Facebook group dedicated to the drama: "Aaron and John getting married next month. Calling it now this is when Robert comes back," While another concurred: "Yup he can return and stop the wedding!" A third added their voice: "I've said this since they got engaged, perfect timing."

Yet another chimed in with enthusiasm: "I hope so!". The love story of Robert and Aaron stands as one of the most revered and timeless within the history of the soap.

Their romance ignited in 2015, and they tied the knot three years subsequently in 2018. However, their union was disrupted when Robert departed from the village following his imprisonment in 2019 for Lee Posner's death (played by Kris Mochrie).

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