In a refreshingly honest revelation, former Emmerdale star Ryan Hawley has confessed that he doesn't harbour any longing for his days in the Dales or for playing the tumultuous Robert Sugden.
The actor, who became a household name during his five-year tenure on the ITV soap, has spoken openly about his departure and his lack of desire to return to the demanding world of serial drama.
Life After The Soap Spotlight
Since waving goodbye to the village in 2019, Hawley has embraced a life away from the relentless filming schedule. He revealed that the constant cycle of learning lines and early mornings is something he genuinely doesn't miss.
His departure was one of the show's most dramatic, with his character, Robert Sugden, being sent to prison for the murder of his sister's fiancé, Lee Posner. This storyline ultimately severed the beloved 'Robron' partnership with Aaron Dingle, played by Danny Miller, leaving fans heartbroken.
A Candid Confession
Hawley's frank admission came during an interview on the Soap from the Box podcast. When asked if he missed his time on the show, his response was unequivocal.
"I don't miss the schedule. I don't miss learning the lines... I don't, I don't miss it," he stated, clarifying that while he cherishes the friendships made, the job itself is firmly in his past.
He expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity and the people he worked with but emphasised that the chapter is well and truly closed, stating he is "really happy" to have moved on.
A Legacy Left Behind
Despite his personal feelings, Hawley acknowledged the profound impact the role had on his career and the show's legacy. Robert Sugden's return in 2014 was a major moment for Emmerdale, reigniting his complicated relationship with Aaron Dingle and creating a fan phenomenon that captivated audiences for years.
His final, emotional scenes depicted a prison visit from a devastated Aaron, marking the tragic end of one of soap's most popular modern couples. While fans may hold out hope for a return, Hawley's latest comments suggest that Robert Sugden's story has reached its permanent conclusion.
