Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'

Emmerdale has revealed a character is returning after six years in an explosive twist (Image: ITV)

Emmerdale is set to welcome back a familiar face after six years away in what promises to be an explosive plot twist.

On Tuesday's Christmas Eve episode, Joe Tate returns to the Dales as it's revealed he's the man who has been pulling the strings behind Pete and Will's plans to bring down Kim Tate.

Ned Porteous is back in the role of Joe after a six-year hiatus, and his comeback is poised to cause a stir not just at Home Farm but throughout the village, especially since he was last spotted in 2018.

In a tantalising flashforward scene scheduled for Christmas Day, viewers will witness turmoil at Home Farm, hinting that Kim's idyllic Christmas is set to crumble into chaos... but what exactly has Joe been orchestrating, and could his plans have even darker implications, affecting everyone in the Dales?

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Emmerdale has hinted at the drama to unfold during the holiday episodes, stating: "This Christmas, expect intense confrontations, heartbreak and plenty of twists as the future of Home Farm is changed forever", reports Leeds Live.

Could this be Kim Tate's last Christmas at Home Farm? (Image: ITV)

Talking about his return and what's coming up with Joe, Ned teased: "I’m so excited to be returning to Emmerdale. There’s a lot of unfinished business for Joe, and it feels like the right time for him to make a comeback.

"Joe has always been a character with a dark side, but there could be something much bigger at play here. Joe is back for a reason, and the devastation at Home Farm is just the beginning of a much bigger story. It’s safe to say the audience can expect fireworks this holiday season!"

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Meanwhile producer, Laura Shaw, added: "We are thrilled to welcome Ned back to Village as the complex and captivating Joe Tate. From the moment Joe arrives on screen, it’s clear there’s trouble ahead but Joe’s hiding an even darker secret that could see 2025 start off with a huge bang."

Emmerdale airs every weekday at 19.30pm on ITV1, ITV X, STV and STV Player with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. It is also available each morning from 07.00am on ITVX.

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Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'

Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'

Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'

Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'

Emmerdale character returns after six years with 'dark secret' as they tease 'fireworks'