Emmerdale: John Sugden Arrives, But Is He a Love Interest for Aaron?

John Sugden's arrival in Emmerdale is set to cause a stir, not only for his half-sister Victoria. The new character quickly sets his sights on Aaron Dingle, but it seems John may have a darker side.

Actor Oliver Farnworth takes on the role of John, making his first appearance in tonight's episode (7 August).

Here's everything you need to know about John Sugden's arrival in Emmerdale, including where you might recognise actor Oliver Farnworth from.

A New Love Interest for Aaron?

John quickly develops an interest in Aaron, potentially sparking a new romance. In tonight's episode, John turns out to be Aaron's online date. When John's van breaks down, Aaron comes to his rescue, and sparks fly between the pair. However, John then drives off with Aaron's keys and wallet, leaving no trace. Will Aaron be able to track John down?

Emmerdale: John Sugden Arrives

In Thursday's episode (8 August), Victoria offers to drive Pollard to a funeral. At the church, Victoria inadvertently upsets a bereaved son by revealing his name to be John Sugden. Pollard confirms that John is the son of Victoria's father, making him her half-brother.

Later, Mackenzie receives a call about a breakdown and sets off to help. Pollard and Victoria return to the village and head to the garage, where they find John with Mackenzie and Aaron. It is revealed that it was John's van that broke down.

What Else Has Oliver Farnworth Been In?

Emmerdale fans might be wondering where they recognise John Sugden from. Actor Oliver Farnworth is no stranger to soapland, having previously played Andy Carver in Coronation Street. He joined the ITV soap in 2014 and left in 2017. Farnworth has also appeared in Hollyoaks, portraying Will Hackett from 2006 to 2007. Other acting credits include "The Royal," "Mr. Selfridge," and "Endeavour."

Oliver Teases John's Backstory

Oliver describes John as a "lone wolf," revealing that John is initially reluctant to stay in Emmerdale.

"We find out quite quickly that he's got a military past," Oliver told Entertainment Daily. "He's openly gay. He is very much a lone wolf. I think over the years, he's really put walls up and not let anyone in. He doesn't like people getting close to him."

Oliver continued, "He's very self-sufficient – he lives off grid in his van. Doesn't need anyone, doesn't need family. But then you know, through a set of circumstances, he's thrown into Emmerdale, realises that he does have family, but he's not interested. He's very staunch that he's literally here for his mum's funeral, and then he's getting out of town. Then his van breaks down, and he's forced to stick around."

Oliver's Famous Girlfriend

Oliver has been in a relationship with former EastEnders star Samantha Womack since 2021. The couple met in 2019 while starring in the stage adaptation of "The Girl On The Train" and currently live together in Spain.

Samantha is known for her role as Ronnie Mitchell in EastEnders and was previously married to actor Mark Womack, who played Emmerdale villain DI Mark Malone. It's a small world in soap! The blended family is close, and Mark even gave Oliver advice when he landed the Emmerdale part.

Oliver told The Mirror, "Mark told me it (Emmerdale) was a great job. He was full of praise for the place, saying it was such a gorgeous place to work. And it is great!"

Emmerdale usually airs on weekdays at 7.30pm, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.