ITV / EmmerdaleInsider Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 Emmerdale fans seriously divided over Kev’s return, 5 things the soap must do to make sure it works The news has been matched with differing opinions Features Kev Townsend Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 Emmerdale announced the return of Kev Townsend last night, and so far, fans have been left seriously divided by the news. Kev was last seen on our screens earlier this year as he fled from the village following a shock showdown with Aaron’s psycho husband, John Sugden. But, now that his return has been announced, Emmerdale fans are hoping he comes back a changed man. However, in order for this to happen, there has to be a few things done on the show. So, let’s have a look at how Emmerdale can make sure Kev’s return is what we want. Kev is back! (Credit: ITV) 1. Keep his comedic and psychotic personality One of the reasons everybody loved Kev is because he was quite a loveable psychopath. He had a dark side to him, but he was also able to shift things and be quite a funny person. article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Yes, he lied about dying, and was running around the village with a machete, but there’s clearly depth beneath his character. In the announcement, actor Chris Coghill explained that Kev is a “complex character” and is “pretty unique” so we can’t wait to see this development. Lewis has no idea Kev is his dad (Credit: ITV) 2. Develop his storyline on Lewis Obviously, when Kev left Lewis remained blissfully unaware that he was his dad. But Kev wasn’t the only person who knew. Nicola and Liam were both also in the know.Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your Emmerdale newsIt's important to us that you never miss our articles when searching for stories! We have all the latest TV news & schedules to share with our community of loyal readers. Click here and tick TVGuide.co.uk to ensure you see stories from us first in Google Search. So, when Kev returns fans are hoping that his storyline is focused on Lewis, and developing a father-son relationship. One penned on Reddit: “There has to be plots around Lewis, and them bonding. It will probably mean he will bond with Nicola and Ross. I just hope they have a strong focus on his relationship with Lewis.” Fans want him to stay away from Robron (Credit: ITV) 3. Let Robron live happily in peace The main reason many fans were so divided by Emmerdale announcing the return of Kev is because they feared he will break Robron up yet again. Robert and Aaron have finally moved on with their lives after six years apart. And by bringing Kev back it could just cause more unnecessary drama. However, if he really is a changed man, and is looking to make amends, then he doesn’t actually need to have anything to do with Robron in order to stay in the village. One fan commented: “I am interested to see the interaction between Kev and Robert. Will Kev recognise reality and give Robert a divorce? Will they become friends? I hope it’s not too complicated. I like the idea of them just living peacefully in the village.” Kev and Liam made quite a fun duo (Credit: ITV) 4. Give him some more friendships When Kev was last on our screens, his dynamics with other characters in the show did play a part in why we loved him so much. From his close bond with Claudette to the dynamics with Liam, he really could get on with everyone. So, when Emmerdale airs Kev’s return, we hope to see him create lasting friendships with people we wouldn’t necessarily expect. One fan added: “I am so excited to see him and Claudette continue their adorable friendship!” Another wrote: “I actually really want to see Ross’ reaction when he finds out Kev is Lewis’ dad. They could have quite an interesting relationship.” Quite a lot of plot holes need mentioned (Credit: ITV) 5. Address huge plot holes However, the last we saw of Kev, he was fleeing the village as the police were looking for him in connection to armed robbery and also had been reported to the police for threatening Robert and Aaron with a machete. So, it’s safe to say there has to be a good explanation on how he is suddenly back with his own business. Especially considering he was broke last time he was on the show. Fans were quick to notice this too. And everyone agrees that Emmerdale needs to give us a good explanation. One said: “I have a few questions like where did he get the money to start his business? And where is he going to sell the cakes? Why is he going back to the place where most people hate him?” Another added: “I would like to know what loophole the show-runners have come up with that would enable Kev to come back without being arrested. I feel like the last time we saw him the police were looking for him for robbery, holding people hostage and cutting Robert with a sword?” “Very concerned from a logistics stand point about how Kev is going to open a pop-up coffee shop in the village when he’s wanted by the police for the sword attack?” a third asked on X. So, if Emmerdale does these things right, then Kev’s return to the village could be very exciting. But, only time will tell! Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale in 2026? A complete guide to departures, returns and new arrivals in the Dales Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google Good to Know Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 By Rebecca Sayers 2 Apr 2026, 13:04 Previous Story Next Story
