Emmerdale actress Isabel Hodgins has shared a candid update on when she may return to the ITV soap, following her maternity break after welcoming her first child earlier this year.
The 32-year-old star, best known for playing Victoria Sugden, temporarily stepped away from the long-running drama earlier this year as she prepared to become a first-time mother. Her on-screen exit was carefully written to accommodate her real-life pregnancy, with Victoria leaving the Dales for a fresh start abroad alongside her son Harry.
Victoria Sugden’s Emotional Exit From The Dales
In the soap, Victoria’s departure was framed as a life-changing decision following a turbulent period in the village. Haunted by recent trauma and complicated by blackmail from Joe Tate, the character ultimately chose to leave the UK behind in search of a calmer life overseas.
Victoria’s exit also ensured continuity for the character, as she promised her brother Robert Sugden that she would one day return to the village.
That promise has kept fans speculating ever since—especially as major storylines continue to unfold within the Sugden family.
Isabel Hodgins Welcomes Baby Girl Georgie Grace
Away from the screen, Isabel has been enjoying a major new chapter in her personal life. The actress gave birth to her daughter, Georgie Grace, in February, marking her first experience of motherhood.
Since then, Hodgins has been regularly updating fans via social media, sharing glimpses into her new life as a parent. Her Instagram posts have included family moments, relaxed downtime, and recent holiday snapshots featuring her partner Adam Whitehead and baby Georgie.
The star’s posts have been warmly received by fans, many of whom have followed her journey since her early days in Emmerdale.
“Everything Has Changed” – Isabel On Life As A New Mum
Speaking on the podcast You Don’t Know You’re Born, hosted by co-star Danny Miller and Nigel Clucas, Hodgins reflected on how motherhood has completely reshaped her priorities.
She explained that for two decades, her career had always come first, but becoming a parent has significantly shifted her perspective on life and work.
“I will need to find a way to manage that. For 20 years, work has been my priority,” she said.
Hodgins added that becoming a mother has “flipped” her mindset entirely, especially when it comes to balancing professional commitments with family responsibilities.
Uncertainty Over Return Date To Emmerdale
Despite speculation from fans, Isabel confirmed that she has not yet set a definite return date to Emmerdale.
While she expressed a desire to return, she admitted that the timing remains uncertain as she navigates life as a new parent.
“To be honest, I still don’t know when I’m going back. In my ideal world, it would be September,” she revealed.
She went on to explain that returning to work will bring new challenges, including managing childcare logistics and adjusting to the pressures of working in a demanding television schedule.
Hodgins also acknowledged the emotional reality many parents face when returning to work, including the possibility of “mum guilt” as she balances both worlds.
Behind-The-Scenes Decision On Her Exit
The actress also opened up about her discussions with Emmerdale producers when she first learned she was pregnant.
According to Hodgins, she was given flexibility over how much time she would take off, with producers allowing her to play an active role in shaping her maternity leave.
Initially, she expected to continue filming into the new year. However, production plans were adjusted, and her final scenes were ultimately completed before Christmas.
Looking back, she admitted the change worked in her favour, particularly due to the physically demanding commute between Manchester and Leeds, which had become increasingly difficult during pregnancy.
“In hindsight they did me a favour. The drive… it was killing me a bit,” she added.
Victoria’s Story Left Door Open For Return
Although Victoria Sugden has been off-screen since earlier this year, her departure was deliberately written to leave room for a possible comeback.
Her exit storyline saw her leave the village alongside her son, following a turbulent period involving blackmail and emotional strain. Before departing, she ensured her brother Robert that her goodbye was not permanent.
This narrative choice has kept the door wide open for a return, something long-time viewers are still hopeful for.
What Happens Next For Isabel Hodgins?
For now, Isabel appears focused on adjusting to motherhood and finding a sustainable rhythm between parenting and acting. While she has not ruled out an Emmerdale comeback, her comments suggest that any return will depend on timing, logistics, and family balance.
With Victoria Sugden still very much part of the show’s wider universe, fans are already anticipating what her eventual return could bring—especially given the ongoing drama surrounding the Sugden family.
Whether she returns in months or years, one thing is certain: Victoria’s story in the Dales is far from over.
