Former Coronation Street star Oliver Farnworth joining Emmerdale as new Sugden

The Sugden family in Emmerdale is getting a new member as John Sugden is set to arrive this summer – and it’s certainly about time too.

Soap fans will recognise John actor Oliver Farnworth because he was once part of one of Coronation Street’s biggest ever storylines.

But now he’s swapped the cobbles for the Dales and will be coming to town soon.

John Sugden arrives in Emmerdale

Victoria Sugden is, at the present time, the only remaining member of the Sugden family in the village. But that is set to change at last when John arrives.

The character is described as ‘brooding and mysterious’ (aren’t they all?) and he will become ‘deeply entwined with the rich history of the Sugden family’. Sounds, er, fun…

However, John will also have his secrets… (Of course he will). He’s also set for romance, when he catches “the eye of an unsuspecting resident, enriching the drama around his arrival.” Bets on who it will be?

Emmerdale has not confirmed how John and Victoria are related, but it seems certain he’ll be some sort of distant cousin/long-lost brother type. John will arrive on screen in early August.

Emmerdale newcomer Oliver Farnworth on John Sudgen role

Of his new soap role Oliver says: “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.”

Emmerdale’s Producer Laura Shaw also added: “We are thrilled to have an actor with Oliver’s talent and presence join the Emmerdale family.

“The Sugdens have always been central to Emmerdale, and introducing a new member opens up exciting possibilities for future storylines. Mysterious John’s arrival will no doubt create a stir in the village for Victoria and the wider community.”

Oliver Farnworth in Coronation Street

Best-known to soap fans as Coronation Street’s Andy Carver, Oliver was famously part of the Pat Phelan killing spree plot.

Andy was presumed dead by fans after he disappeared thanks to Phelan. However months later it was discovered he was alive and being held hostage in a basement by killer Pat.

Things took a horrible turn for Andy when Phelan forced him to kill Vinny Ashford, then killed Andy anyway. So all those months in the basement trying to stay alive were pretty much for nothing.

Oliver’s final Corrie episode was in 2017.

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.