ITV Emmerdale return 'sealed' after five years as fans spot telling clue

Emmerdale fans are convinced that a return is imminent after five years after spotting a telling sign on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, Aaron Dingle, played by Danny Miller, was struggling with the news that Rebecca White had died, meaning her son Seb was now living with Rebecca's aunty.

Soap watchers will recall that Aaron's ex-husband, Robert Sugden, played by Ryan Hawley, is the father of Seb and Robert is currently in prison over the death of Lee Posner.

The shock news about Rebecca was revealed by her former partner, Ross Barton, played by Michael Parr, who recently returned to the village after six years.

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It has left Aaron both emotional and nostalgic as he questioned why Seb wasn't set to live with him and Robert's sister, Victoria Sugden.

Opening up to Victoria, the latter insisted that Robert saw Aaron as a "second dad" to Seb and he adored him but the best thing for the youngster was a stable home with Rebecca's aunty.

The interaction was overheard by Aaron's new love interest, John Sugden, who happens to be the long-lost half brother of both Robert and Victoria.

John attempted to get information from Victoria but she insisted he speak to Aaron instead. On Wednesday's episode, Aaron reluctantly opened up to John about Robert but when John continued to press him about his feelings, a defensive Aaron stormed out.

Taking to social media, viewers are convinced that all this talk of Robert could lead to a return for the character after five years. Viewers will recall that Robert left the show back in 2019 after being sent to prison over the death of Lee Posner.

Robert accidentally caused Lee's death after he attacked him, following Lee horrifically raping his sister Victoria. Robert faced up to his crime and cut all ties with the village and his loved ones as he was sentenced.

However, fans have held out hope for his return, particularly following hints that Robert may not have been responsible for Lee's death.

Lee sustained head injuries from Robert's punch, but it was later revealed that he had also been hit by his brother Luke, which could have contributed to his demise. With Robert's name resurfacing recently, viewers are hopeful for his comeback.

Taking to social media, one person said: "This is totally leading up to a Robert Sudgen return #emmerdale", a different account wrote: "Can't wait for Robert's inevitable return. #emmerdale" while another added: "#Emmerdale is crying out for a Robert Sugden return."

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.

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