Fans are nostalgic as Kelvin reflects on two decades as Andy, revealing why a return seems unlikely despite constant rumors and love for the show.
A Familiar Face Fans Still Miss
For Emmerdale fans, Andy Sugden remains one of the most unforgettable figures in the show’s long history. Played by Kelvin Fletcher for 20 years, Andy went from a troubled foster child to a cornerstone of the Sugden family before going on the run in 2016. Now, nearly a decade later, Fletcher has addressed whether he’d ever return to the Yorkshire Dales — and his answer may break a few hearts.
During an appearance on This Morning with his wife Liz to promote the new season of Fletchers’ Family Farm, the question everyone wanted answered finally came up: would Andy ever come back to Emmerdale?
“There Are Always Rumours”
When host Alison Hammond pressed him on the possibility of a comeback, Kelvin smiled knowingly before offering a diplomatic but heartfelt response.
“There always seems to be those rumours,” he said. “I think Emmerdale’s in a fantastic place at the minute. We’re viewers, we’re fans of the show. It’s different watching it now after spending 20 years there. I had some amazing memories, but I think I’d be too busy. I don’t think I can stand that two-hour commute, first and foremost.”
While the comment doesn’t completely close the door on a return, it suggests that life beyond the Dales is keeping the actor happily occupied.
From the Dales to the Farm
Since leaving Emmerdale in 2016, Fletcher has forged a diverse career on and off-screen. He’s appeared in Death in Paradise, The Teacher, and Moving On, while also pursuing his real-life passion — farming.
His BBC series Kelvin’s Big Farming Adventure followed his family’s move to a smallholding in Cheshire, which later evolved into Fletchers’ Family Farm on ITV. The show’s second season, which chronicles their journey after a devastating house fire, promises to be emotional and inspiring.
“It was the stuff of nightmares,” Kelvin admitted. “Our neighbour called us while we were abroad — the house was on fire. It was surreal. There was nothing we could do but be thankful no one was hurt.”
Andy Sugden’s Legacy
Andy’s departure from Emmerdale in 2016 was as dramatic as his two-decade storyline. Wrongly accused of crimes committed by Chrissy White (Louise Marwood), he went on the run with help from his estranged brother, Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley).
It was a fittingly intense exit for a character whose life was defined by turmoil — from accidentally killing his foster mother, Sarah, to his turbulent marriage with Katie Addyman (Sammy Winward), and his bitter feud with Robert.
Despite everything, fans still hold out hope that Andy could one day return to reunite with daughter Sarah or face his past in the village.
Fletcher’s Real-Life Happy Ending
Away from the drama of the Dales, Kelvin’s life couldn’t be more different. He and his wife Liz are raising four children — Marnie, Milo, Mateusz, and Maximus — and sharing their journey through the ups and downs of farm life.
“I’ve got the best job in the world now,” Kelvin said with a grin. “Acting will always be part of me, but right now, I’m focused on my family, the farm, and enjoying life.”
For fans, it’s a bittersweet reality — while Andy Sugden may not be coming home to Emmerdale anytime soon, his legacy remains as strong as ever.