Emmerdale's Serena Sugden, played by Casey Al-Shaqsy, continues to stir up drama with a growing web of lies. The newcomer, who appeared as Charity Dingle's confidante after her rape, is now revealed as a relative of Robert and Sarah Sugden. Her relationship with Robert's fiancé Aaron Dingle remains strained, as she desperately seeks his approval.
Bond with Robert
Casey Al-Shaqsy described Serena's bond with Robert as unshakeable, despite her secretive behaviour. 'She tries so hard; she's always trying to be mates with him, and every time she stands up, it's like he kicks her down,' she said of Aaron. 'She loves Robert very dearly, so she wants Aaron to like her. She won't stop trying. She's like an annoying little spot that keeps coming back! Or an annoying rash. She's like, “I'm not going anywhere. Get used to me!”'
The actress believes fans relate to the familial bond. 'I think the bond that you're seeing right now is pretty much the same as what you'll see. There may be eventual growth, but we're both happy to see each other. Regardless of what happens, he loves me. Obviously, if I did anything truly nuts, I'm sure there'd be consequences, but with what's going on right now, you're seeing a very familial bond.'
Home Farm break-in
Meanwhile, Serena's mysterious agenda at Home Farm continues. After a stolen USB stick proved useless, she breaks in again and meets fellow robber Steve, a friend of Kev Townsend. Casey noted Serena isn't scared of being caught, even by Kim Tate. 'I don't think she's scared of anybody. She has quite an aggressive background in the police force.'
When faced with Steve after he attacks Ross, Serena hesitates. 'She thinks, “Do I help Ross, or do I make a run for it?” In that split second, she considers the fallout. I think she selfishly chooses herself and tries to make a run for it.'
