Two Decades in the Dales

It’s a moment worth celebrating in Emmerdale history. Actress Isabel Hodgins, who has portrayed Victoria Sugden since 2006, has officially marked 20 incredible years on the long-running ITV soap.

Taking to Instagram, Isabel shared a nostalgic post that left fans feeling both emotional and proud. Alongside a throwback photo from her first scenes in October 2006, she wrote: “Can’t believe I’ve entered my 20th year on Emmerdale. So many memories, amazing people, and stories over the years.”

For two decades, Victoria has been at the heart of the Sugden family legacy, navigating heartbreaks, betrayals, and triumphs that have shaped the fictional village of Emmerdale.

From Newcomer to Fan Favourite

Isabel’s portrayal of Victoria quickly earned her critical acclaim and audience affection. Just a year after joining the cast, she was nominated for Best Newcomer at both the TV Choice and TV Quick Awards, followed by another nomination for Best Young Actress at the Inside Soap Awards in 2008.

Playing the daughter of Jack and Sarah Sugden, and the adoptive sister to Andy Sugden, Victoria’s storylines have spanned love, loss, and redemption — making her one of the show’s most enduring and relatable characters.

Life Imitates Art: A New Chapter Ahead

Off-screen, Isabel’s real life is also entering a joyful new era. In April 2025, she revealed she had married her partner Adam Whitehead, sharing two intimate black-and-white Polaroid photos showing off their wedding rings and a sweet post-ceremony embrace.

Then, in August, Isabel delighted fans again by announcing her pregnancy with the caption: “First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes… Baby Whitehead.” The post showed the couple holding their baby scan, surrounded by well wishes from friends and co-stars alike.

Emmerdale’s Daisy Campbell (Amelia Spencer) commented, “So happy for you, Iz,” while Chris Bisson (Jai Sharma) added, “Congratulations.”

Victoria’s Emotional Exit Looms

As Isabel prepares for maternity leave, Emmerdale viewers are bracing for Victoria Sugden’s temporary exit. Recent storylines have seen her at the centre of intense drama involving newcomer John Sugden (Oliver Farnsworth), whose secret crimes — including the accidental death of Nate Robinson — have rocked the village.

Speaking to Metro at the Cure Usher Ball, Isabel admitted that even she doesn’t yet know how Victoria’s departure will unfold. “It’s still a surprise,” she teased. “They’re still cooking something up — we’ll see.”

Producers promise that Victoria’s exit will be emotional and unpredictable, leaving viewers “in for a ride” as the truth about John’s actions finally surfaces.

A Legacy That Lasts

As she steps away to welcome her first child, Isabel Hodgins leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Emmerdale. From a teenage newcomer to one of the soap’s most beloved figures, her journey as Victoria Sugden has been one of resilience, strength, and heart.

And as both actress and character prepare for new beginnings, one thing is certain — Victoria’s story in the Dales is far from over.