Emmerdale spoilers: Robert Sugden’s dramatic exit storyline revealed following the death of rapist Lee
EMMERDALE's Robert Sugden has fled the Dales along with husband Aaron Dingle following the death of rapist Lee Posner.
Robert’s sister, Victoria Barton, broke the news that Lee – who cruelly raped her earlier this year – had died in hospital, leaving Robert now facing a murder charge.
Fans of the ITV soap saw how Lee had been left in a coma after Robert attacked him with a shovel.
His death means that Robert is looking at a murder charge rather than GBH with intent.
As the severity of the situation sank in, Robert and Aaron decided the best thing for them would be to go on the run before the trial kicks off.
But it looks like Robert will be caught, as pictures last week revealed that actor Ryan Hawley is still filming on the ITV soap.
Earlier this year, Ryan announced he was quitting the soap, to the horror of fans, who have affectionately nicknamed Robert and Aaron - Robron.
A source told The Sun in June: “Emmerdale fans have loved every minute of RobRob's story, and what Ryan has brought to playing Robert.
"But he has decided to take a break from the show for the foreseeable future and try other projects.
"He will leave later this year, but fans can expect to see him on screen up until the end of the year. He will be sorely missed."
Danny Miller, who plays Aaron, is staying on the show which means that more than likely Robron will split up.
Emmerdale bosses have hinted that Robert could die. Speaking in July, producer Laura Shaw said: “Robert is intent on getting his revenge at any cost, even if it kills him.
“Victoria’s evil rapist Lee is still pursuing her, so Victoria decides that the only way that she’s ever going to live happily and peacefully with the baby, is if she leaves the village forever.
“As her brother finds this out, he’s obviously devastated. He doesn’t want his sister to leave at all and as Lee piles the pressure on both of them, Robert is pushed to the very edge.”
She added: “It’s been a fantastic five years with Ryan and we’re going to miss him dearly.
We’ve got a bit of time left with him on screen, but it does mean that going forward our beloved Robron are going to be parted.”
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One of the most popular screen couples in Emmerdale’s history, Robert and Aaron, have had a rocky road to happiness after getting together while Robert was engaged to Chrissie White.
Their relationship has survived murder, kidnap and even Aaron’s stint in prison, during which Robert got his former girlfriend Rebecca White pregnant after a one-night stand.
Laura continued: “We’ve seen in the past what happens with Aaron when he unravels, so I think there are going to be really interesting times ahead as we see him parted from his beloved Robert and watch him unravel. It’s going to be explosive.”