Emmerdale has announced that the character Robert Sugden is to return to the ITV soap, played by a new actor, Ryan Hawley.
When last seen in Emmerdale in 2005, Robert was played by Karl Davies, who left the village in disgrace after an affair with Andy's then fiancee Katie.
Ryan (pictured, in ITV drama Titanic) said: "I am absolutely over the moon to be joining the show. Playing such an interesting character with a complicated history in the village is so much fun, especially as my family are all big Emmerdale fans. I can't say much about what’s going to happen, but I am delighted to be a part of it."
Robert and his adopted brother Andy have always been at loggerheads. Andy has never forgiven Robert for having an affair with Katie, while Robert has never coped with feeling Andy was the most cherished son. Will Robert’s return cause old rivalries to awaken, especially now Andy and Katie are planning to marry?
Emmerdale producer Kate Oates said: “I'm delighted to welcome Ryan to the show. Robert is a complex character and when we were looking for someone to take over the role, Ryan had the perfect balance of charm and edge. Robert Sugden’s life has moved on in many ways... but those ingrained feelings - about his father, Andy, Katie, and the village where he grew up - are sure to find an explosive outlet.”
Ryan will make his Emmerdale debut in late October.
