Emmerdale actor Oliver Farnworth has broken his silence on the dramatic return of his villainous character, John Sugden, confirming his part in the upcoming Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover event, dubbed Corriedale.
What Triggers John Sugden's Dangerous Comeback?
In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, Farnworth revealed the motives that pull John back to the village after months on the run. The character fled earlier this year after his crimes were exposed, but not before a final, violent act: dragging his husband, Aaron Dingle, off a clifftop in an attempted murder meant to frame Aaron's soulmate, Robert Sugden.
"I think love ultimately brings him back, and jealousy brings him back," Farnworth explained. He issued a stark warning about John's mental state, stating: "He feels like he has got far less to lose this time, and so we might see a slightly more dishevelled and unhinged side to John. Not that he can get anymore unhinged, but he's even more unhinged."
Behind the Scenes of the Epic 'Corriedale' Crossover
The actor confirmed that filming for the major crossover storyline began as far back as August or September 2025, describing it as a "huge set piece" that took much longer to film than standard episodes. Farnworth, who previously played Andy Carver in Coronation Street between 2014 and 2017, expressed his excitement at being part of the mashup.
"To come back has been like a warm embrace. I've loved it," he shared. "In terms of iconic TV, I really think it's an absolute privilege to be a part of. It's amazing."
Major Twists and Stunts Promised for Viewers
Teasing the content of the special episode, Farnworth hinted at more than one major surprise for audiences. While confirming large-scale night-time stunts that "look stunning," he also promised significant narrative twists.
"The human part of it, there's pathos, there's classic Corrie and Emmerdale humour, there's also huge twists," he revealed. "There's really huge twists and not just one."
This return spells fresh danger for Aaron and Robert Sugden, who have reconciled since John's disappearance. Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.
