ITV Emmerdale legend 'over the moon' as huge return confirmed after six years

Emmerdale has confirmed the return of Ross Barton, with actor Michael Parr reprising his popular role. Parr first joined the soap in 2013 and quickly became a fan favourite for his portrayal of the complex yet charismatic character.

He is set to make his on-screen comeback later this year. Ross was known for his turbulent relationships with Donna Windsor and Debbie Dingle during his time on the show. His relationship with Donna ended tragically when she committed suicide by jumping off a car park roof with criminal Gary North.

Ross was left heartbroken by her death. He later embarked on a clandestine affair with Debbie, who was engaged to his brother Pete at the time. This came to an end when it was revealed that Ross had a one-night stand with Debbie's mother, Charity, resulting in the birth of baby Moses, reports Leeds Live.

Ross Barton
Emmerdale has confirmed the return of Ross Barton, with actor Michael Parr reprising his popular role -Credit:ITV

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Ross was also embroiled in numerous dangerous plots, including a plan to murder his brother Pete. However, he is perhaps best remembered for the poignant storyline in which he battled depression following a horrific acid attack.

His return to the village is likely to reopen old wounds and spark new rivalries. Speaking about his comeback, Michael expressed: "I'm over the moon to be returning to Emmerdale. Ross is a character I'm extremely fond of and I'm excited to explore what he's been up to over the past five years. After seeing the scripts, I can't wait for the audience to see what's in store. One thing I can say is Ross's return will no doubt create fireworks."

Ross Barton and Debbie Dingle in Emmerdale
The fan favourite is set to make his on-screen comeback later this year -Credit:SCU

Producer Laura Shaw also shared her excitement, stating: "We are delighted to have Michael back at Team Emmerdale, playing the unforgettable and charismatic bad boy Ross Barton once again. Ross makes a huge impact from the first moment he arrives back on screen, immediately throwing some of our villagers' lives into disarray. Chaotic, wild and reckless, Ross is absolutely going to shake up the village and prove it's never quiet with a Barton boy back in town."

Before the official announcement, Emmerdale's Instagram and X accounts posted a cryptic video as a teaser.The clip showed Bradley Johnson, who plays Vinny Dingle in the soap, wandering through the Emmerdale set, seemingly on a quest to find the enigmatic returnee for a grand welcome back.

The time has come for Ross Barton to reveal to Emmerdale fans the humiliating reason he didn’t look for Rebecca White
What drama will Ross bring to the village? -Credit:ITV

Despite his thorough search from the press office to the wardrobe department, Bradley remains oblivious, not noticing that Mike is subtly photobombing most of the footage.

Ross maintains ties to the village as Moira Dingle's nephew, who is presently dealing with the shocking news of a brain tumour diagnosis. Additionally, he is the father of Charity Dingle's son Moses.

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm