A Dales legend has made a shocking return from the dead after years away – but could their comeback bring relief to Robert Sugden, who’s been struggling behind bars ever since his brother’s betrayal?
Emmerdale fans are in for a treat as a beloved Dales legend makes a shocking return from the dead tonight – to confront Robert amid weeks of emotional turmoil and possibly change his heart.
In tonight’s moving special episode of Emmerdale (November 12), Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) reflects on his time in prison during a heartfelt reunion with his ex-husband Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller). But just as the two reconnect, Robert is struck by a powerful flashback — and comes face to face with none other than the late Faith Dingle (Sally Dexter), who has a message for him.
Faith opens up about how deeply Aaron has been struggling and insists that Robert may be the only one who can help him. The much-loved Dingle has been in a dark place ever since his heartbreaking cliff fall — caused by Robert’s brother — but could this be the moment that helps heal their fractured bond?
In the episode, Robert opens up about his complicated bond with Kev Townsend (Chris Coghill) and how their friendship eventually turned into something deeper. He reveals that marrying Kev helped him come to terms with life behind bars and give up on appealing his sentence — until an unexpected visit from Faith changes everything.
Startled by her sudden appearance, Robert is urged by Faith to think about Aaron’s struggles. She also insists he should fight to overturn his conviction and reunite with his true love.
After taking a short break from the show, Faith made her on-screen return to the village in February 2021. A year later, she was diagnosed with terminal cancer, which tragically led to her death in the arms of her son, Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley).
Reflecting on her brief comeback, actress Sally Dexter said she was “thrilled to be back.”
She added: “My first thought was, ‘How on earth are they going to bring me back? I’ve been dead for about two years!’ But it’s been such a joy. Coming back feels like returning to an old school — it’s so warm and familiar. Everyone here, cast and crew alike, are just wonderful.”
Speaking about Faith, Sally revealed that she had always modelled the character after her own mother. She shared: “I’ve always said my mum was the inspiration for Faith, and sadly, she passed away last year. So stepping back into the role feels really special — it’s such a joyful experience, and I feel very grateful.”
Faith’s comeback to the Dales is expected to be brief but will leave a powerful impression on Robert, who may find his outlook shifting after their emotional encounter.
Reflecting on Faith’s original exit, Sally said: “It was such a beautifully written storyline, and I thought Jeff was absolutely outstanding — as he always is. He’s just wonderful.”
Although she’s been away from Emmerdale for some time, Sally admitted she’d love to return more permanently. She joked: “I’ve been working on my Australian accent, just in case they decide a long-lost cousin shows up — and I’d happily don a blonde wig for the part!”
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