Coronation Street star joins Emmerdale as ITV soap revives Sugden dynasty

Emmerdale has announced a new Sugden will unexpectedly make their way to the Dales as the family dynasty risked disappearing with just Victoria and Sarah Sugden remaining in the village - and he'll be played by a former Coronation Street star.

The Sugden family has been a part of Emmerdale since the ITV soap's inception in 1972. They were the main family for storylines between the 1970s and 1980s, with the family originally consisting of widowed farmer Annie Sugden alongside her children Peggy Skilbeck, Jack Sugden and Joe Sugden.

The family has expanded - and reduced - over the years with Victoria and her son Harry remaining the only two Sugdens by blood on the show. Additionally, Sarah, the daughter of Jack's adopted son Andy's daughter Sarah, also remains on the show but she is not a Sugden by blood.

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Now, Emmerdale is set to welcome a new character from the Sugden dynasty, heralding a new generation of the family. It's been announced that Oliver Farnworth will portray John Sugden, a new arrival who is expected to shake things up for Victoria, played by Isabel Hodgins.

Brooding and mysterious, John is holding all the secrets. What relationship is John to Victoria and what does his arrival mean to her? Set to introduce fresh challenges and intriguing relationships, he’ll become deeply entwined with the rich history of the Sugden family.

He’ll also catch the eye of an unsuspecting resident, enriching the drama around his arrival. Oliver, who will first be on screen in August, is best known for his roles in Coronation Street, in which his character Andy was killed by legendary soap villain Pat Phelan, and Hollyoaks as well as the touring theatre production of The Girl on the Train.

Emmerdale’s Producer, Laura Shaw, expressed her enthusiasm for Oliver’s arrival, saying: "We are thrilled to have an actor with Oliver's talent and presence join the Emmerdale family. The Sugden's have always been central to Emmerdale, and introducing a new member opens up exciting possibilities for future storylines. Mysterious John's arrival will no doubt create a stir in the village for Victoria and the wider community."

Oliver also shared his excitement about joining the show. He said: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining the cast of Emmerdale. The show has such a rich history, and the Sugden family is integral to that. I’m looking forward to bringing my character to life and working with such a talented and dedicated team."