OPINION: Why bringing Robert Sugden back is one of the best decisions Emmerdale has made

We have missed you, Robert
Rebecca Sayers

Robert Sugden has made his Emmerdale return. And we think it is one of the best decisions the show has made in a long time.

Six years ago, we said goodbye to Robert Sugden as he was sent to prison for murder. But now, he’s back. At the end of May Robert made a shock appearance at Aaron and John’s wedding, hoping to win his ex-husband back.

Turns out, he appealed his sentence and won. While Robert ended up back inside for missing his probation meeting, this week he makes his return to Emmerdale village. And we think it is one of the best decisions Emmerdale has made, here’s why.

Robert and Aaron talk on the bridge
Robron’s chemistry has not faded (Credit: ITV)

Robert and Aaron reunion – please Emmerdale!

A Robron reunion seems pretty inevitable. The Emmerdale writers, producers, and everyone involved with the show know that no other couple is adored more than they are.

Their relationship, which began way back in 2015, brought so may amazing storylines, and it captured the hearts of everyone watching.

Over the years, we watched their highs and their lows. And even during the periods they weren’t together – they were very clearly still in love.

So now that Aaron Dingle is adamant that John is the man for him, it just fuels our ammunition for wanting Robert to get his man back. In the few scenes they have had together since Robert’s return, it’s clear the love and chemistry has not gone away over the six years.

And while we may have a wait to go before they fully let each other back in – Robron is always worth the wait.

Robert is back in the village in Emmerdale
We are always team Robert (Credit: ITV)

Robert is one of the most complex characters

Away from his relationships, the character of Robert is one of the most complex people. Ryan Hawley deserves a massive shout-out for how he has picked up perfectly as though he never left!

Rob has always been someone who isn’t afraid to take risks, and would do anything for those he loves. And yes, he messes up from time-to-time, but the emotional depth of the character is why we all choose to forgive him.

The last six years Robert has been in prison, without contact from his family. And that has probably been a very tough time for him. So, while he still has that bad-boy, wind-up charisma, there’s also probably going to be another side to him that we haven’t ever seen – and that’s very exciting.

Robert is unconscious in the back of John's van in Emmerdale
There is so much that can happen now that Robert has returned (Credit: ITV)

Future Emmerdale storylines from Robert Sugden’s return

Right now, Robert isn’t exactly loved in the village. But in time we think he’ll be able to work his charm and be forgiven.

But his return brings so many potential storylines. While of course his priority seems to be getting his family back, there are other avenues he could go down too.

Spoilers show that he is given a job from Caleb – until John intervenes – and those two could be a very iconic duo.

Let’s not forget, Robert never really saw eye-to-eye with Joe Tate (and many others) so could some old feuds be reignited? Or new allies formed?

Victoria is worried about Robert in Emmerdale
Welcome home, Robert Sugden (Credit: ITV)

Social media reaction to Robert Sugden’s Emmerdale return

Over the last few months, Emmerdale has proved why it is at the top of their game. Not only have they brought Robert back – but we have also had the return of Ross Barton and Joe Tate (well done Emmerdale).

Yes, there has been a lot of chatter about how men seem to be dominating the soap at the moment. And of course there are a lot of female returns we would love. But Robert’s was a necessity. And that’s not just our opinion – but it’s proven by the online reaction.

Fans took to X explaining this is the first time in years they have watched the show, with many having stopped after Emmerdale broke Robron up.

And it’s clear that Emmerdale knew they would get this sort of reaction. And that’s why they made the decision to not air Robert’s return early on ITVX. It meant everyone could freak out together online.

It’s clear that the return of Robert Sugden has got people talking about Emmerdale everywhere. So, well done Emmerdale for finally bringing him back – we can’t WAIT to see what’s to come.

Read more: As John threatens Robert, 7 reasons why the returning Sugden shouldn’t be messed with