Emmerdale has brought back Isabel Hodgins as Victoria Sugden in a brief but unexpected appearance, eight months after the character left the village. Victoria made a surprise return during an early release of the ITV soap on ITVX, appearing in a video call with her brother Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley).
Why Victoria Left the Dales
The character departed for Portugal earlier this year as part of a storyline written to accommodate Hodgins's maternity leave. Her exit followed the death of her brother John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), whom she had killed. Although his death was officially recorded as suicide, Victoria struggled to move on from what had happened.
She was also caught up in a blackmail plot involving Joe Tate (Ned Porteous), who had obtained footage of John's death. Joe used the recording to pressure Robert into framing Moira Dingle (Natalie J Robb) for modern slavery and murder at Butler's Farm, threatening to hand the evidence to the police if he refused.
Joe Tate's Farm Takeover
Joe was also determined to take control of the Sugden family's share of the farm. He eventually offered Victoria a way out, agreeing to let her sell her stake in the property so she could leave Yorkshire and build a new life in Portugal with her son, Harry.
Much has changed in the village since her departure. Joe now controls Butler's Farm, with Robert installed as its tenant farmer. Robert has also revived the property's historic name, Emmerdale Farm, in a nod to the Sugden family's long connection to the land. More recently, he took over the former Hide Bistro and has plans to relaunch it, using produce grown and reared on the farm.
Victoria Declines Return
In the latest episode, Robert discussed his plans with fiancé Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) and niece Sarah Sugden (Katie Hill). He suggested contacting Victoria, who has experience as a chef, to see if she would consider returning to help with the restaurant.
Robert eventually managed to speak to his sister over a video call in Portugal. Victoria was pleased to hear about his plans but made it clear she was happy with her new life abroad and had no intention of moving back to Yorkshire. Even after Aaron joined the conversation, she remained firm in her decision, leaving Robert disappointed.
