Emmerdale legend Victoria Sugden has made an unexpected return to screens – but she comes bearing bad news for her brother Robert. The character, played by Isabel Hodgins, has been absent from the village for some time, with the actress on maternity leave. On-screen, Victoria fled to Portugal with her son Harry after her life began to crumble.
Victoria's Exit and Joe Tate's Manipulation
Victoria left the village after putting a definitive end to her brother John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth). Her other brother Robert (Ryan Hawley) stepped in to protect her, though Joe Tate (Ned Porteous) had discovered her killer secret and set about using it to his advantage.
Under duress, Victoria convinced Moira Dingle (Natalie J Robb) to sell their farm to the Tate clan as Joe focused on expanding the Tate empire. Wracked with guilt and manipulated by Joe, Victoria decided to leave the village and fled to Portugal with Harry.
Robert's Plan for a Family Business
In her absence, Robert sought to right the wrongs Joe forced him to inflict on other villagers, freeing Moira, who he had framed on Joe's behalf for the murder of Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths). Robert then set out on his own manipulative mission to re-establish the Sugdens in the village, targeting Gabby Thomas (Rosie Bentham) and her struggling business, The Hide.
Robert convinced Gabby to sell the business to him, but she struck back by gutting the restaurant. Robert then rigged a poker game to raise funds, only for the money to be swiped by Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins). With the money back in his grasp, Robert decided to get in touch with Victoria and bring her home.
Victoria's Refusal
On a video call, Victoria appeared for the first time in months as Robert laid out his plans for her to be at the heart of his new venture, with produce sourced from their farm. Victoria was shaken at the prospect of returning and said she didn't need to think about it – she wasn't coming back. She cited Harry's happiness in Portugal as her reason.
Robert called in his fiancé, Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller), to level with Victoria, insisting Robert had a solid and sustainable plan. Victoria remained unmoved, making it clear her decision stood and she would not be returning to the village anytime soon, if ever.
