Lisa Riley is returning to Emmerdale as Mandy Dingle after 17 years away
13 November 2018, 00:01 | Updated: 21 January 2019, 13:37
A familiar face will make a comeback in the new year...
After 17 years away, Emmerdale viewers will welcome back Mandy Dingle to the fold.
Lisa Riley played the iconic character, who is the ex wife of both Butch and Paddy (Dominic Brunt). Mandy appeared in the soap from 1995 to 2001.
Mandy left the soap to live with her best friend, Kelly Windsor, after her marriage to Paddy came to an end following her affair with her lecturer.
She will return in early 2019 for a 'self-contained' storyline, ITV confirmed.
Emmerdale Mandy Dingle Last Appearance
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.”
Yes it is 100% true, I am RETURNING back to Emmerdale...Mandy Dingle will come back to the Dales for New Years to cause all kinds of trouble, and her usual cheeky laughter. It’s been so difficult keeping it a secret for so long, I am over the moon @emmerdale @itv #mandydingle pic.twitter.com/iTBguvu8ch
— Lisa Jane riley (@Reallisariley) November 13, 2018
Emmerdale 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.”
