Emmerdale fans are convinced the 50th anniversary could be the moment one major character finally makes a return, amid reports of a fan favourite being "killed off" later this month.
Viewers have longed for the comeback of Robert Sugden ever since his arrest in 2019, especially after hints over the past three years that he could be released from prison.
Robert was arrested and given a lengthy sentence over the death of Lee Posner three years ago, and eventually he ended his marriage to Aaron Dingle.
Now, the reports of Aaron's sister Liv Flaherty possibly being killed off during the big storm week have left many predicting Ryan Hawley could be about to reprise his role.
Robert was close with Liv, so news of her death would no doubt leave him devastated.
Amid Aaron's looming grief, fans have questioned whether we will see Robert briefly as he learns of the tragedy, or perhaps even a phone call with the character might air.
Taking to Twitter, one fan guessed: "No because why do i have a feeling robert is gonna come back to emmerdale?"
Another asked: "Will Aaron call Robert in prison and tell him that Liv has died? Probably wouldn’t see Robert, but would be an emotional way to make him part of the 50th celebrations for emmerdale as he is a Sugden after all."
A third viewer tweeted: "Robert has to make a return for her funeral if these spoilers are real."
It follows reports that actress Isobel Steele, who plays Liv on the ITV soap, has quit the Dales after six years.
The star first joined the soap in 2016 but is now said to have called time on her character in order to focus on music.
The actress, who scooped Best Young Actor at the 2018 British Soap Awards, will bow out as Emmerdale marks its 50th anniversary – and will apparently be killed off in dramatic scenes set to air later this month.
A source told The Sun: “It’s been a big decision for Isobel but she’s ready to try new things.
“She feels like she’s done all she can at Emmerdale and wants to focus on her music career and make a real go of it. Bosses have pulled out all the stops for the 50th anniversary month and Isobel’s exit will be no different.
“Viewers are going to be on the edge of their seats as it all plays out and Liv is killed off. It’s a real heartbreaker, a death fans will remember for a long time to come.”
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV, and streams on the ITV Hub.
