Elizabeth Estensen has hinted she could return to Emmerdale again one day.
Actress Elizabeth has played Diane Sugden on the ITV soap for several years, eventually leaving her role in emotional scenes. However, she will be back for a very special storyline surrounding Diane's friend Faith Dingle as part of the show's 50th anniversary.
Diane had been a staple in the village for over two decades. Elizabeth has been involved in some huge storylines including Diane's marriage with Jack and his death, being involved in a helicopter crash that killed Val, her affair with Eric and being stabbed by Chas.
Speaking ahead of the scenes, Elizabeth shared: "I was really pleased to be asked to come back to Emmerdale to celebrate its 50th. It's sort of the same but not the same. There's a lot of people that I still know that I was really pleased to see again.
"I can't say I have enjoyed having to rush for a train again though! Diane has a great time catching up with people in the village but she has come back especially to see Faith whom she was great friends with. Who knows she may return again one day!"
Diane was seen leaving the village back in October 2021, with Elizabeth's final scenes being aired to emotional viewers. However, she will be back for some scenes during this 50th birthday celebration.
"We always wanted to try and bring back some of our loved characters during the 50th. Diane's a Sugden and she was in the show for so many years. We absolutely adore the character and we adore the actress, Liz," Jane Hudson said of Elizabeth's return.
"It just felt fitting to bring her back – that old soul, the person who knows the village the best, who can be a support to many different characters on many different levels. She'll bring a calm to the storm!"
When she left, Elizabeth admitted she would "miss everyone dearly".
She said at the time: "For the past 22 years, I have loved playing Diane Sugden – she's kind, reliable, and fiercely loyal. However, I now feel the time has come to say goodbye. Emmerdale will always remain special to me. I've been treated with respect and kindness, and I've had the very best friends and colleagues, both past and present. I'll miss everyone dearly."
*Emmerdale airs weekdays on ITV at 7.30pm, with an hour long episode on Thursdays.
