ITV Emmerdale fans say 'knew it' as soap brings back major character six years after savage exit

With the festive season upon us, the soap world is gearing up for some spectacular Christmas twists, and in good soap fashion, Emmerdale are bringing back an old enemy to kick off the drama.

This Christmas Eve episode will see the character Joe Tate making his way back to the Dales as he's revealed as the mystery figure who's been calling the shots when it comes to Pete and Will's take down of Kim Tate.

Ned Porteous left the show in 2018, and he was last spotted after he hit his head on a rock after being punched by Cain Dingle. Viewers assumed the blow killed him, but as his butler Graham carried him into the car, Joe's hand moved.

The following year, viewers learned that Joe was very much alive and living off Kim's business, but has yet to be seen... Until now.

Joe's arrival back in the village is predicted to send shockwaves through the community, particularly on Home Farm. Emmerdale have confirmed that there will be a flashforward scene airing on Christmas Day that shows chaos has ensued on Home Farm, and Kim's Christmas plans could well and truly be ruined.

Viewers will be left somewhat suspicious of the returning figure, wondering what else he could have planned and if there will be dire consequences for the rest of the Dales.

The show has revealed that fans of the ITV soap should expect "intense confrontations, heartbreak and plenty of twists as the future of Home Farm is changed forever."

Speaking of his return, 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."

The actor added: "Joe has always been a character with a dark side, but there could be something much bigger at play here. Joe is back for