Emmerdale fans are convinced that a returning legend will be the one to kill off John Sugden, as the twisted character goes on the run from the village

Emmerdale’s John Sugden, played by Oliver Farnworth, might be facing his comeuppance and could potentially be killed off by a returning character, according to soap fans.

John made his first appearance on the ITV drama last year, arriving as the long-lost son of Jack Sugden (Clive Hornby), and quickly stirred up a significant amount of trouble.

This year, it was disclosed that John was behind the murder of Nate Robinson (Jurrell Carter) in September 2024.

In an attempt to hide his actions, John disposed of Nate’s body in a river, but when the body was found, he managed to pin the crime on an innocent individual.

However, in recent weeks, the truth about John has been revealed, with everyone in the village now aware of his heinous crimes – including Nate’s father, Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley), reports the Daily Star.

This week, John tried to flee, blackmailing Caleb Miligan (William Ash) for assistance. Now, as the net tightens around John, viewers believe a figure from his past will return to bring him down.

Online, fans have speculated that Ella Forster (Paula Lane) could be the one to kill John. Audiences may remember that Ella debuted in 2024 and it was unveiled that she had murdered her friend during their childhood.

Capitalising on Ella’s history, John framed her for a series of offences during her time on the show. These include drugging her romantic rival at Chas Dingle’s (Lucy Pargeter) engagement party to Ella’s former partner Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson).

Ella maintained her innocence, but Chas and Liam dismissed her claims. After John implicated Ella in the incident, the community ostracised her, causing her mental wellbeing to deteriorate.

She was subsequently arrested in April following an assault on Liam with a stone, leading to her immediate imprisonment. However, viewers believe Ella might return seeking vengeance and potentially murder John.

On an Emmerdale Facebook fan group, one viewer commented: “You know who needs to kill John off? Ella, especially as she was set up by him if you remember.” Another added: “I’d love it if she returned!”. A third contributed: “If this happens and she kills him, finally! Been too long.” Someone else remarked: “That would be good, justice for Ella!”.

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm