Karen Blick confirms Lydia Dingle is BACK in Emmerdale with a shock storyline that promises “drama” for the Dingles after months away
Emmerdale fans were left puzzled earlier this year when Lydia Dingle suddenly vanished from the village. The beloved character, played by Karen Blick, was last seen on screen in March 2025, having already been absent since February. Her disappearance sparked speculation that Blick had quietly left the ITV soap for good.
But viewers got a shock when Lydia made a fleeting return in June, revealing she had been away caring for her ill mother. Now, Karen Blick has confirmed she is back for good—and her next storyline promises fireworks.
“Lovely Surprise” Tinged With Drama
Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Karen admitted she welcomed the break from constant turmoil. “It has been nice to not be in the Dingle drama too much this year. Lydia’s had a busy three years or so, probably since Covid actually.”
However, the actress teased that Lydia won’t be keeping a low profile for long. “It’s been a nice quiet year, however she’s got a lovely surprise coming up that’s tinged with an awful lot of drama.”
While she kept further details under wraps, Karen hinted that the new storyline will shake the Dingle clan once again.
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Explosive Christmas Chaos Ahead
Karen’s big reveal comes as her co-star Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, also teased an unforgettable Christmas in the village. Riley revealed that fan-favorite director Vicky Thomas—the mastermind behind last year’s icy limo crash—has returned to helm the festive special.
That crash claimed multiple lives, including Suzy Merton, Leyla Harding, and Amy Wyatt. Riley warned that this year’s holiday episode could be just as destructive.
“Vicky Thomas, who directed the big ice crash, is directing Christmas Day, so that speaks for itself,” Riley told reporters at the Inside Soap Awards.
Bear’s Return and a New Curveball
Lisa also revealed her storyline will focus on Bear’s long-awaited return. The character, who vanished after troubling mood swings and angry outbursts, will be thrown back into the spotlight alongside Mandy and Paddy.
“When we got the script, we were told months ago, it’s something really exciting,” Riley teased. “That’s so good about soaps, we’ve planned loads of things to knock you off kilter.”
The actress hinted at a twist that will span Christmas and into the New Year, describing it as a storyline “never done before” in Emmerdale’s history.
What’s Next for the Dingles?
Between Lydia’s mysterious new storyline and Bear’s unpredictable return, the Dingles look set for another turbulent chapter. With Christmas looming, and Vicky Thomas back behind the camera, fans can expect nothing less than chaos, heartbreak, and jaw-dropping revelations.