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.
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.
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.
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.
