EMMERDALE fans have pleaded with bosses not to introduce a ‘predictable’ romance into the show’s plot.
Former Coronation Street star Oliver Farnworth has joined the fellow long-running ITV soap in the role of John Sugden.
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The character is set to be revealed as a long-lost relative to Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins), who has appeared in the programme since 1994.
Ahead of John’s arrival, passionate viewers are already worried about how writers will incorporate him into the plot.
Writing on an online forum, a fan noted how Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) had featured prominently in a trailer promoting John’s debut.
They wrote: “Please don’t tell me they are going to saddle another Sugden man up with the misery that is Aaron?
“Or is he just being nosey because a relative of his ex husband has turned up?”
Another added: “From what it sounds like Aaron is good to take an interest in him.
“I really hope they don’t go down that road. It would be way too predictable.
“Plus, if it means giving Aaron more screen time, it’s a no from me.”
A third fan, meanwhile, shared a theory on why the character of John was created in the first place.
They wrote: “If he is going to be a love interest for Aaron it makes you wonder if they tried to get Ryan Hawley back and failed so created a new Sugden to try and recreate Robron.”
Yet another fan vented: “Poor John. I feel sorry for him already. Another potentially interesting character set to be dragged down by the personality vacuum that is Aaron Dingle.”
Previously speaking about signing up for the soap, Oliver said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the cast of Emmerdale.
“The show has such a rich history, and the Sugden family is integral to that.
“I’m looking forward to bringing my character to life and working with such a talented and dedicated team.”
The actor’s Corrie stint saw him play doomed Andy Carver – who was tragically killed by villain Pat Phelan (Connor McIntyre) in 2017.
Meanwhile, in the storyline, Aaron was previously married to Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley), for two years.
Aaron Dingle’s biggest storylines
The character Aaron Dingle (formerly Livesy) made his Emmerdale debut all the way back in 2003. Current actor Danny Miller took on the role in 2008. Here are some of Aaron’s biggest soap storylines over the years.
- McFarlane family: After Aaron returns to the village in 2008, he is arrested by Ross Kirk (Samuel Anderson) for possession of drugs. His mother Chas‘ (Lucy Pargeter) family later learn he is a drug courier for the McFarlanes.
- Coming to terms with his homosexuality: Initially, Aaron questioned and struggled to come to terms with his homosexuality. He ultimately confided in friend and guardian Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt).
- Romantic advance towards Adam Barton: At one point, Aaron begins dating Holly Barton (Sophie Powles) and befriends her brother Adam (Adam Thomas). Aaron tries to kiss Adam after they are involved in a run-off road collision. Embarrassed, he tells Adam that he misunderstood the situation. Aaron sleeps with Holly, however, Adam informs his family that he thinks Aaron is gay. Aaron denies it but Holly ends the relationship.
- Child sexual abuse: In 2015, it was revealed Aaron had been sexually abused by his father Gordon (Gary Mavers) when he was  from the age of 8 before Gordon kicked him out. Ultimately, Gordon was imprisoned years later – but took his own life while in prison.
- Relationship with Jackson Walsh: Aaron and Jackson Walsh (Marc Silcock) started dating after a tumultuous start to knowing each other. Their story ultimately ended in heartbreak, as Jackson died by assisted suicide.
- Suicide attempt: A harrowing storyline from 2010 saw a then-teenage Aaron attempt to take his own life.
- Relationship with Robert Sugden: Aaron and long-standing character Robert Sugden were romantically linked following the latter’s return in 2014. Nicknamed “Robron“, the pair married in 2018, however, Robert exited the soap in 2019.
They formed a popular pairing known as “Robron” and were first linked after Robert’s return to the village in 2014.
Ultimately, Robert’s exit storyline saw him go on the run after unintentionally killing Lee Posner (Kris Mochrie).
The villainous car salesman had raped Victoria and later bragged about committing the crime.
Emmerdale airs on ITV and is available to watch on ITVX.
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