Emmerdale's most notorious villain is set to wreak havoc once more, with actor Oliver Farnworth confirming John Sugden's dramatic return to the ITV soap. The character's comeback is timed with the highly anticipated 'Corriedale' crossover event between Emmerdale and Coronation Street, scheduled to air in the coming weeks.
An Unhinged Villain's Return
Speaking exclusively about his return, Oliver Farnworth warned fans that John Sugden will be more dangerous than ever. "I think love ultimately brings him back, and jealousy brings him back," the actor revealed. He added that John feels he has "far less to lose this time", promising a "slightly more dishevelled and unhinged side" to the character. Farnworth teased, "Not that he can get anymore unhinged, but he's even more unhinged."
The actor confirmed that filming for the massive crossover event began as far back as August or September 2025, with the production being a much larger undertaking than the soap's standard episodes. John's return follows his disappearance months ago, after he absconded following the exposure of his many crimes in the village.
Chaos for Robert and Aaron
John Sugden's resurgence spells immediate trouble for Robert Sugden and Aaron Dingle, both of whom are central to the crossover plot. Ryan Hawley, who portrays Robert, hinted at the high stakes, stating: "It starts off full throttle! The events of it afterwards are going to change both shows forever. It’s high stakes. It’s a big spectacle and very exciting."
John's history with the couple is violently personal. His last act before vanishing was a cliff-top attack on both Aaron and Robert, an act of final revenge against Robert. While both Aaron and John survived the fall, the vendetta is clearly far from over.
A Legacy of Villainy
John Sugden's reign of terror in the Dales has been extensive and brutal. His list of crimes includes:
- The murder of Nate Robinson.
- Nearly killing Aaron Dingle and himself.
- Drugging Chas Dingle and sabotaging her wedding.
- Harassing and framing Ella Forster.
- Triggering a severe allergic reaction in Jacob Gallagher.
- Attempting to kill Mackenzie Boyd.
Despite his evil deeds, he has shown fleeting moments of humanity, such as saving Ruby Fox-Miligan and Moira Dingle's lives during a barn fire, albeit after delaying help when Moira fired a gun.
With his return now confirmed, the question on every viewer's mind is who will be in the firing line next. The 'Corriedale' crossover, set to air in a couple of weeks, promises to be a game-changing event for both soaps, with the resurrected John Sugden positioned firmly at the heart of the chaos.
