Mandy Dingle is returning to Emmerdale after 17 years – and no one is happier than actress Lisa Riley, who plays her.
The actress and sometime Loose Women panellist, 42, has been confirmed for a shock comeback this festive season for a “self-contained storyline”.
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And Lisa has shared her “absolutely joy” at being back on set with co-star Dominic Brunt, who plays her ex-husband Paddy Dingle.
On Thursday (15 November), actor Dominic shared a beautiful photo of an early morning sunrise along with the message: “Frosty morning but the village looks beautiful at this time of year. Working with @Reallisariley and @markcharnock today. @emmerdale x.”
She in turn responded with the message: “Absolute joy working with my (what feels like) life brothers….@dominicbrunt and @markcharnock.”
Absolute joy working with my (what feels like) life brothers….@dominicbrunt and @markcharnock 💛💛💛💛💛
— LISA RILEY (BLUE TICK) (@Reallisariley) November 15, 2018
Read more: Emmerdale fans have a theory about Mandy Dingle’s return
Unsurprisingly fans were quick to welcome Lisa back to the fam, with one saying: “Lovely to have you back Lisa! Mandy is such a great character.”
However, another was slightly more cautious, adding: “I love Mandy but please leave Paddy and Chas alone….cheers x.”
Of course, Mandy’s surprise return coincides with the possible disintegration of Paddy’s marriage to Chas after the devastating death of their daughter Grace.
In the run up to Mandy’s return, life in the village is relatively calm with the rest of the Dingle family living fairly harmoniously…
So what can Mandy’s storyline involve?
On her character’s return, Lisa Riley said: “I could not be happier to be returning in the New Year to Emmerdale.
“It’s something I never thought would happen after 17 years and I am so interested to see what trouble Mandy is capable of causing. But mostly being back with all my old friends, it’s like I’ve never been away.”
Emmerdale’s Producer, Kate Brooks added: “Iconic Mandy Dingle returns to the village carrying a secret that turns lives upside down.
“She’s a character bursting with fun who certainly ruffles a few feathers during her short stint back in the village, and she clearly hasn’t lost any of the joie de vivre that made Mandy so popular and enjoyable to watch.
“We’re delighted to welcome Lisa back to Emmerdale.”
Secrets and lies? Bring it on!
What secret do you think Mandy could be hiding? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!