Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) faces heartbreak as Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) moves on with John Sugden: “I’m trying to cope, but I can’t let go of Aaron.”
Aaron and John’s Holiday Turns Dark
Following Robert’s emotional farewell, Aaron chose to leave the village with John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), believing it was best to give their relationship a chance. The couple’s holiday, however, has taken a darker turn than Aaron realizes.
Friday’s episode revealed that the so-called holiday cottage is actually John’s childhood home. Aaron discovered items in a locked room confirming it was John’s former bedroom. John then recounted the story of his mother’s death from cancer, manipulating Aaron into sympathizing with him. Moments later, Aaron agreed to the idea of moving in permanently and renovating the home—still unaware that John is holding his best friend, Mackenzie Boyd (Lawrence Robb), hostage nearby.
Robert’s Struggle on the Farm
Meanwhile, Robert has attempted to distract himself by embracing his family’s farming legacy and building a partnership with Moira Dingle (Natalie J. Robb). Alongside Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins), Matty Barton (Ash Palmisciano), and Ross Barton (Michael Parr), Robert undertakes his first group farming shift.
The team initially competes to complete tasks, moving sheep between fields, only to realize they’ve shifted the wrong herd. Forced to cooperate, they ultimately succeed—and celebrate their hard work with drinks at the pub. Despite these lighter moments, Robert’s mind is elsewhere, weighed down by Aaron’s absence.
Coping with Aaron’s Departure
Victoria notices Robert’s reluctance to open up about his feelings regarding Aaron leaving permanently. She encourages him to find ways to cope, but Robert is determined to develop a plan to keep Aaron close, rather than accept the separation. His internal struggle highlights the ongoing tension in Robert and Aaron’s complex relationship.
Actor Danny Miller commented on the situation:
“I do think they’re supposed to be together. I do believe they are two people who’ve always needed each other. This is the opportunity for Robert to express that and Aaron manages to find a way of pushing him away because he knows from previous experiences that him and Robert shouldn’t work, although they do work, they want to work though they haven’t in the past.”
Miller also noted that Aaron still harbors anger toward Robert for handing himself in to the police in the past, creating additional emotional layers for the characters to explore.
Mackenzie Boyd’s Fate Remains Uncertain
Meanwhile, viewers got confirmation that Mackenzie Boyd survived the deadly attack from earlier in the storyline. After being hit in the chest with a bow and arrow, Mack is being kept by John in a dark, dingy shelter. His survival raises more questions about John’s next moves and the looming danger for the Dingle family and their friends.
What’s Next in Emmerdale?
With Aaron unaware of the peril surrounding him, Robert grappling with heartbreak, and John’s manipulations growing increasingly sinister, the coming episodes promise intense drama. Fans can expect emotional confrontations, high-stakes rescues, and potentially life-changing revelations for the residents of the Dales.