The former Coronation Street star’s new character is described as ‘brooding and mysterious’. John is also set to introduce fresh challenges and intriguing relationships as he becomes entwined in the history of the Sugden family. Perhaps unsurprisingly, he’ll also catch the eye of an unsuspecting resident.

Discussing his arrival to the show, Oliver said: ‘I am absolutely delighted to be joining the cast of Emmerdale. The show has such a rich history, and the Sugden family is integral to that. I’m looking forward to bringing my character to life and working with such a talented and dedicated team.’

Emmerdale’s producer, Laura Shaw, expressed her enthusiasm for Oliver’s arrival: and added: ‘We are thrilled to have an actor with Oliver’s talent and presence join the Emmerdale family. The Sugden’s have always been central to Emmerdale, and introducing a new member opens up exciting possibilities for future storylines.

‘Mysterious John’s arrival will no doubt create a stir in the village for Victoria and the wider community.’

This week, a dramatic storyline was teased in the form of some new filming pictures. We can see Oliver filming as John and carrying Beth Cordingly aka Ruby Fox-Miligan from a burning barn.

As filming continued, two vehicles were spotted carrying Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley), Chas (Lucy Pargeter), Caleb Milligan (William Ash) and Will Taylor (Dean Andrews). They arrive just as new face John emerges from the flames.

It is said that Cain was then heard shouting for wife Moira (Natalie J Robb) as he made a run for it into the barn.

This stunt was recently teased by new Emmerdale boss Sophie Roper.

She told us: ‘We’ve got a lot of stunts coming up! Some we’re actually due to be filming this week…I’m not going to tell you too much, but what I can tell you is there will be fire engines involved, so take from that what you will. It’s going to be a really explosive week of Emmerdale.’

A new Sugden involved with some Dingles has left us very intrigued indeed. Does John secretly know one of them, prompting his decision to visit the village?

Where there’s fire, there’s jeopardy so it has – of course – left us wondering if everyone will survive this upcoming ordeal.

If John decides he’s going to try and save Ruby, could he get caught up in the blaze himself and die just weeks after joining the show?

If so, where will that leave Victoria if she discovers her connection to John before the departure?

Let’s not forget Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter) is set to depart the village after five years.