SPECIAL EMMERDALE ROBERT SUGDEN PRISON FLASHBACK EPISODE REVIEW

Back in October, Emmerdale announced series of standalone episodes with tonight's episode (Wednesday 12th November) seeing Ryan Hawley's character, Robert Sugden at the forefront this is one I have been excited about since the announcement as there's definitely something being held back since his return at the end of May and it's not just Kev Townsend in my opinion.

Last Thursday's episode (6th November), Robert went through with his vow renewal despite viewers in the final scene learning Kev wasn't actually dying thanks to Liam Cavanagh and that he'd been stringing Robert along it would seem. However, Robert and Aaron agreed to enter their 2.0 affair era personally I'm pleased. The 'You know, I know' line made many fans very happy - thank you Isobel Cameron! But 'the messed up forever' and with the mutual 'I love you' lines broke me.

Last night (Wednesday 11th November), Kev informed Robert of some upsetting news regarding his time in prison seeing how much trauma Robert's been through, through the darkness in his eyes. Victoria calling Aaron as she knew Robert needed him with him saying “I wanted to see you, I needed you!” before beginning to slowly open up a little about his prison ordeal where Aaron listened and supported his true love that's one thing you can't deny! Robert revealed he wasn't on the Isle of Wight, but in Hotten. Before the flashbacks began of his in prison with Robert finally ready to admit the truth to Aaron. Anyone else emotional about what's to come?!

Photo Credit: ITV/Emmerdale

Tonight's special Robert Sugden Prison episode (Wednesday 12th November) was made up of a mix of flashbacks and present day scenes showing a vulnerable Robert throughout. In the first flashback, viewers began to learn about Robert and Kev's journey let's just say it's even more complicated than I first thought however seeing Robert's shyness return was interesting as this side of the character always shows how scared and guarded the character can be and always will be in those tough moments. The fact Robert was annoyed with Kev looking through his family pictures showed how much he missed them. However, it was the moment Robert was seen lying on the floor after being beaten up but still holding the photo of Aaron with Kev entering left me with many questions like did he plan it? Was this is plan all along? Robert's broken that much we do know.

Present time, Aaron continued to stand by Robert and will do anything to support the man he loves more than anyone with a flashback going on to explain how Kev and Robert's relationship began leading to Kev purposely causing himself harm for Robert's attention playing on Robert's vulnerability.

During a surprise flashback scene, the late Faith Dingle visited Robert revealing about Aaron's trauma both wanting to protect him. Meanwhile, in current day Aaron was shocked to learn that Robert knew about him and Liv Dingle as Victoria thought about Robert's feelings. Back to the flashback, Faith refused to believe that Robert didn't still love Aaron saying “You're the only person who's ever been able to get through to him, he'd come home for you.” to “He was happiest with you!” to “What you had was special, everyone can see it.” It's like Faith was one of us, Robroners and loved their relationship.

The camera angles were brilliant especially between the flashback of Robert and Faith's hands to the current day of Robert and Aaron's was a genius choice in my opinion.

Photo Credit: ITV/ Emmerdale

At the end of tonight's episode, Robert revealed it was Victoria's post about Aaron's wedding that gave him the push to get his solicitor onto his appeal as us viewers went on to learn that Robert did it all behind Kev's back - this is the Robert we love to see despite the lying, but it had to be done. With Aaron going on to tell Robert “Whatever you need, I'm there for you!” Victoria also agreed.

However, a secret was revealed at the final scene during chat between Kev and Liam about Kev having one night stand with someone called Emma, is Lewis be Kev's son? But one thing I don't understand is why this part made it into the episode, but would explain Lewis' appearance.

Tonight viewers definitely got an understanding of how prison changed Robert - Ryan Hawley it's great to have you back where you belong, and showing everyone what a great actor you are! I think the awards are coming your way! Also, Danny Miller, Isabel Hodgins and Chris Coghill - you were all great so thank you!

Thank you, Adam Sales for writing a great script - one thing that Emmerdale do extremely well are these stand-alone episodes allowing viewers to get a proper understanding of why the character(s) are like they are based on that certain experience.

This episode of Emmerdale aired Wednesday 12th November at 7.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX/ YouTube.