Following his exit in 2013, Rik Makarem is set to reprise his role at Nikhil Sharma – and it’s thought his return will be surrounded by drama.
Taking to Twitter to confirm the news, Rik wrote: “Very much looking forward to re-visiting a character I love very much – an attractive and powerful storyline to play. @emmerdale [sic].”
Viewers last saw Nikhil leaving the village to start a new life in Canada with his daughter Molly.
He was pushed to leave after discovering his wife Gennie had been murdered by Cameron Murray.
But now, with his family falling apart, Nikhil could end up regretting his return.
Executive producer Kate Oates told Digital Spy: “I am thrilled to be welcoming Rik back. Nikhil previously left Emmerdale under sad circumstances as he continued to grieve for his wife Gennie, but with strong family roots still in the Village, it was inevitable that he would reappear.
“But with Jai off the rails, Rishi at his wit’s end and Priya flaunting her new-found ambitions, what will he make of the family he left behind.”
Rik added: “With fresh energy and wisdom from playing other characters, I’m over the moon to be re-investing in Nikhil.
“Emmerdale is fantastic at character-driven stories, and for any actor, this is massively rewarding.”
It is thought that Rik will start filming his new scenes next month and will return to our screens in the autumn.