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Who is Emmerdale’s John Sugden? New character announced as ex-Corrie actor Oliver Farnworth joins the ITV soap
The actor has a hefty CV - and has had major roles in rival soaps
EMMERDALE is set to welcome a new character from the legendary Sugden family tree.
Oliver Farnworth ushers in a new generation of the family dynasty, who were introduced during the show’s first episodes in 1972. Here’s what we know about him.
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Who is Oliver Farnworth in Emmerdale?
Oliver Farnworth is joining the cast of Emmerdale as John Sugden during the summer of 2024.
The new character is poised to introduce significant changes for Victoria Sugden, portrayed by Isabel Hodgins.
John, described as brooding and mysterious, arrives with plenty of secrets that have implications for his relationship with Victoria and her future in the village.
His presence will not only stir up the existing dynamics but also forge new relationships and reconnect with the deep history of the Sugden family.
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His arrival will also attract the attention of another village resident, adding layers to the unfolding drama.
Farnworth will make his first appearance on the show in August 2024.
Laura Shaw, Emmerdale’s producer, expressed her excitement about Oliver joining the show, stating: "We are thrilled to have an actor with Oliver's talent and presence join the Emmerdale family.
“The Sugdens have always been central to Emmerdale, and introducing a new member opens up exciting possibilities for future storylines.
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“Mysterious John's arrival will no doubt create a stir in the village for Victoria and the wider community."
Oliver also shared his enthusiasm about his new role: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining the cast of Emmerdale.
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“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."
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What has Oliver Farnworth appeared in before?
The actor is no stranger to soapland.
He first gained recognition in the role of Will Hackett on Hollyoaks from September 2006 to May 2007.
However, in 2014 he joined the cast of Coronation Street as Andy Carver, a role he played until his character was dramatically written out in 2017.
His last scene, which aired on January 20, 2017, suggested his character was killed by Pat Phelan (played by Connor McIntyre).
However, in a surprising twist, Farnworth made a dramatic return on August 18, 2017.
It was revealed that his character was actually being held captive by Phelan in a cellar of an abandoned house, a storyline that concluded with his character's death on October 27, 2017.
Oliver has also appeared in BBC soap, Doctors, and three episodes of ITV’s 1960s medical drama The Royal, as Nev Cartwright.
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In 2014, he starred as Florian Dupont, a Belgian refugee, in Mr Selfridge and five years later appeared in Endeavour, as PC Rich Potter.
Farnworth has also graced the stage.
He's appeared in productions of The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, and The London Plays.
In 2008, Farnworth took on the leading role in Saturday Night And Sunday Morning at the Harrogate Theatre, and played Lysander with the British Shakespeare Company in A Midsummer Night's Dream.
He acted in the stage adaptation of The Girl On The Train, opposite his other half, former EastEnders star Samantha Womack.
How to watch Emmerdale
Emmerdale airs every weekday at 7.30pm on ITV.
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Each episode lasts for half an hour and can be watched Monday to Friday.
But if you miss any episodes you can catch up with them on the streaming service ITVX.
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