Victoria Sugden made an unexpected return to Emmerdale in the latest episode, appearing via video call as Robert attempted to persuade his sister to come back to the village and help with his new business venture.
Victoria left the Dales in February, moving to Portugal with her son Harry to start over after a traumatic period. Her departure followed a series of devastating events surrounding the death of her brother John, which left the family facing an uncertain future.
Robert's plans for the Hide
Robert, now looking to establish himself as the new owner of the Hide, appears keen to bring another familiar face into his plans. During the episode, Robert and Aaron were adjusting to their growing household, with Sarah, Jacob and baby Leyla now living with them at the farm. Robert admitted he was enjoying having a young child around and revealed he was still hopeful his son Seb would eventually come to live with them too.
Away from family life, Robert was making progress with his plans to reopen the Hide. He met with a kitchen designer to discuss the restaurant's future but quickly realised he needed someone with more experience to help bring his ideas to life. His thoughts turned to Victoria, prompting him to phone her and explain his vision for the business.
Victoria's refusal
The call marked Isabel Hodgins' first on-screen appearance as Victoria since she stepped away from the soap earlier this year for maternity leave. Robert was clearly hoping his sister would be persuaded to take charge of the restaurant's kitchen, painting an appealing picture of a family-run operation with produce grown, delivered, prepared and served by the Sugdens themselves.
Unfortunately for Robert, Victoria was not convinced by his proposal. Despite his enthusiasm, she made it clear she was settled in Portugal and had no immediate plans to return to Yorkshire. She admitted she could not see herself wanting to move back to the village at all, leaving Robert disappointed as he had been counting on her experience and involvement to help make the Hide a success.
Aaron joined the conversation, throwing his support behind Robert and reminding Victoria how much effort his partner had already put into the new venture. He suggested that having her involved would make the restaurant even better. Despite both men making their case, Victoria stood by her decision, forcing Robert to reconsider his plans for the Hide without his sister's help.
Future return teased
For now, Victoria appears happy to continue building a new life overseas, with little indication she is ready to return to Emmerdale. However, her brief appearance could leave viewers wondering whether this really is the last they will see of her in the village. Isabel previously teased her return in April, confirming she would be back "later this year".
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and is available to stream from 7am on ITVX and YouTube.
