Who is Emmerdale’s John Sugden? New character announced as ex-Corrie actor Oliver Farnworth joins the ITV soap

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.

ITV

Oliver appeared in Corrie a few years back before joining the Emmerdale cast[/caption]

Who is Oliver Farnworth in Emmerdale?

Oliver Farnworth is set to join the cast of Emmerdale as John Sugden later this summer.

The new character poised to introduce significant changes for Victoria Sugden, portrayed by Isabel Hodgins. 

Victoria is the last remaining Sugden family member in the village.

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. 

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.

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. 

“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. 

“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.”

What has Oliver Farnworth appeared in before?

The 41-year-old actor first gained recognition in the role of Will Hackett on Hollyoaks from September 2006 to May 2007.

But before this, Farnworth graced the stage in productions of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and The London Plays, which was written by Ed Hime and directed by Kelly Wilkinson. 

He also featured in three episodes of ITV’s 1960s medical drama The Royal, where he played Nev Cartwright.

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. 

By 2014, he was seen on television as Florian Dupont, a Belgian refugee, in the series Mr. Selfridge.

He later 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. 

In 2019, Farnworth appeared in the TV series Endeavour, taking on the role of PC Rich Potter.

He acted in the stage adaptation of The Girl On The Train, opposite his other half, Samantha Womack.

How to watch Emmerdale

Emmerdale airs every weekday at 7.30pm on ITV.

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.