Emmerdale confirms drama and violence for Robert and John

Emmerdale fans are in for a “dramatic” episode tonight (July 31) as character Robert Sugden (played by Ryan Hawley) faces a tough situation after leaving prison.

Robert’s half-brother John, played by Oliver Farnworth, is set to intensify the drama having secretly attached a listening device to Robert so he can spy on his every move.

John heard that Robert said he had sold weed that didn’t belong to him and decided to tell Ross, one of the characters that the weed belonged to.

What's John going to do now?! 😨 #Emmerdale pic.twitter.com/4Nlwj4qbHi

— Emmerdale (@emmerdale) July 30, 2025

Further in the episode, Robert is found to have also used the cash from buying Annie’s (Sheila Mercier) back, reports the Radio Times.

The publication continues: “With John continuing to play Mr Nice Guy, Robert issues a parting warning that the locals will soon see his sibling's true colours.

“But, now public enemy number one again, Robert's isolation leads him into yet another showdown with John, whose underhanded tactics and nasty words cause Robert to lose control.

“A violent incident ensues, with the fate of both characters left on the line in very different ways.”

Next week: Dylan's hiding a secret from April, Charity has a worrying fall, Vinny questions his sexuality.

Read more here: https://t.co/QUCoWlyLgf#Emmerdale pic.twitter.com/IbDqqx8Rmg

— Emmerdale (@emmerdale) July 28, 2025

How to watch Emmerdale tonight as Robert’s antics get exposed

You can catch all the drama in tonight’s episode – how will it end?

Emmerdale is on at 7.30pm on ITV1 or anytime on ITVX as the episode is already available to watch.

The news of this drama comes after fans pleaded on Reddit for a beloved character to return to the soap after 15 years.

Will Wylde, played by Oscar Lloyd, left the show in 2011 when Maisie broke off her engagement with Nikhil and took him to stay with their aunt in Dartford.

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Now, fans are calling for him to return as he would have some "proper storylines" now.

Recommended reading:

• Emmerdale fans 'beyond done' with characters who make them 'turn off the TV'

• Emmerdale fans demand the return of a beloved character to the ITV show

• Emmerdale fan favourite returns as viewers 'convinced' he's part of iconic family

Taking to Emmerdale's official Reddit page, one fan of the ITV show posted: "With Emmerdale bringing back Ross, Robert and Joe, I feel like it would be really good if the show brought back Will Wylde.

"He was one of the nice ones. It would be good for Belle to find proper love, too.

"Also, he would be the right age where he would have some proper storylines too."