Emmerdale fans are buzzing with a new theory, convinced they have worked out Robert Sugden's next move after a tense cliffhanger. Viewers believe the character, played by Ryan Hawley, is secretly plotting against the villainous Joe Tate, despite appearing to go along with his blackmail scheme.
The Sinister Blackmail Plot
In the episode that aired on 8th January 2026, the sinister plot orchestrated by Joe Tate reached a new low. Having already blackmailed Victoria Sugden and her brother Robert by filming Victoria killing John Sugden, Joe escalated his demands.
His latest plan involved framing Moira Dingle for crimes linked to the late Celia Daniels and Ray Walters. The pair, now deceased, were exposed for drug trafficking, sexual exploitation, and running a modern slavery operation at their farm.
Joe discovered incriminating documents at Celia's house and ordered Robert to plant them at Moira's home. This, he claimed, would land Moira in trouble with the police and force her to sell her farm, finally granting Joe and Kim Tate the land they have long coveted.
Robert's Impossible Choice
Faced with an impossible decision, Robert was initially sickened and refused Joe's offer of money and a job in exchange for framing Moira. However, his desperation to protect his sister Victoria from a prison sentence saw him apparently change his mind.
In a pivotal scene, Robert was seen entering Moira's house with the envelope of evidence, seemingly ready to carry out the deed. His mission was abruptly thwarted when Moira returned home unexpectedly and caught him in the act.
The episode ended on a tense cliffhanger with a guilty-looking Robert simply staring at Moira, leaving his intentions unclear.
Fan Theories Take Over Social Media
This ambiguous ending has sparked a flurry of speculation among the Emmerdale fanbase on social media. The prevailing theory is that Robert Sugden is playing a long game and has no intention of truly betraying Moira Dingle.
Many viewers are predicting he will confess everything to Moira, and the pair will then work together to turn the tables on Joe Tate. One fan tweeted, "Praying that Robert tells Moira everything."
Another popular theory suggests a clever counter-setup. A fan proposed online: "It would be great if Robert turned the table on Joe, set him up as Celia's partner, get him sent to prison." This sentiment was echoed by others who refuse to believe Robert would side with Joe over a village stalwart like Moira.
Emmerdale continues to air weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and the ITVX streaming service.
