ITV Emmerdale fans convinced 'return is inevitable' after spotting major clue

Emmerdale enthusiasts are buzzing with rumours that a familiar face might return to the show after five years, due to an intriguing hint in Wednesday's episode. In the latest instalment, Aaron Dingle, played by Danny Miller, has been coping with the shocking news that Rebecca White is dead, leaving her young son Seb orphaned.

Fans will recall that Aaron's ex-husband Robert Sugden, portrayed by Ryan Hawley, is Seb's dad but is in jail for killing Lee Posner. The tragic update about Rebecca was delivered by her previous flame Ross Barton, brought to life by Michael Parr, who's made a surprising return to the village after six years.

Aaron was left reeling from the news, reminiscing over better times and puzzled as to why Seb wouldn't stay with him and Victoria Sugden, Robert's sister, as noted by Leeds Live. A chat with Victoria revealed deeply felt sentiments; she expressed that Robert always saw Aaron as a beloved "second dad" to Seb, yet concluded that a more stable home with Rebecca's aunt was preferable for the child.

Meanwhile, their heartfelt discussion didn't escape the ears of John Sugden, Aaron's new love interest, who happens to be another long-forgotten half-sibling of both Robert and Victoria.

John tried to extract information from Victoria, but she suggested he speak with Aaron instead. However, in Wednesday's episode of the beloved soap, when Aaron reluctantly discussed Robert and was further pressed about his emotions, a frustrated Aaron abruptly left the scene, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Fans on social media are speculating that all this chatter about Robert could signal his return after a five-year absence. Audiences will remember that Robert exited the show in 2019 after being imprisoned for Lee Posner's death.

Robert unintentionally caused Lee's demise after assaulting him, following Lee's brutal rape of his sister Victoria. Accepting his crime, Robert severed all connections with the village and his family as he received his sentence.

Nonetheless, viewers have remained hopeful for his return, especially given recent suggestions that Robert may not have been solely responsible for Lee's death. Lee suffered head injuries from Robert's blow, but it was later disclosed that he had also been struck by his brother Luke, which could have played a part in his death.

With Robert's name cropping up again recently, fans are optimistic about his potential return.

Social media has been buzzing with speculation over a possible return of Robert Sugden to Emmerdale, with fans sharing their theories and excitement. One viewer commented: "This is totally leading up to a Robert Sudgen return #emmerdale", while another added eagerly: "Can't wait for Robert's inevitable return. #emmerdale".

Another fan suggested: "#Emmerdale is crying out for a Robert Sugden return", and yet one more chimed in with a theory: "I think John isn't the real John and he's been in jail with Robert, remember the name on the dog tags ...something is not right. #emmerdale."