Emmerdale has confirmed the arrival of another member of the Sugden family. West End star Casey Al-Shaqsy has joined the cast of the ITV soap as Serena Sugden, and her arrival will mark an exciting new chapter for the iconic family.
The actress, best known for appearing in the UK tours of Six: The Musical and Hamilton, began filming in April, and her character will arrive on screens later this month. As part of the show’s efforts to strengthen the Sugden presence in the village, Serena will find herself at the heart of the drama when she’s drawn into the aftermath of a character’s traumatic situation.
She will find herself conflicted in what she’s become involved in and soon enough, her presence will raise questions about her true motivations for settling in the Dales, and where her loyalties lie.
Producer and Actress Share Excitement
Discussing the arrival of Casey and Serena, Emmerdale Producer Laura Shaw said: ‘The Sugdens are a core part of the Emmerdale fabric, and we are thrilled to welcome Casey to the family. Her character will be at the heart of some extremely gripping and unexpected storylines, forcing her to make difficult choices that will have dramatic consequences for some of the village’s biggest names.’
Casey added: ‘I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining such an iconic show and playing a Sugden! Serena is a fantastic character with so much going on beneath the surface. I can’t wait for the audience to see the drama unfold.’
Casey Al-Shaqsy's Background
Star Casey has featured in a number of other theatre productions including Rumi: The Musical, Wicked, and Bonnie & Clyde.
The Sugden Legacy Continues
The Sugden legacy has been something Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) has focused on a great deal this year. After being blackmailed by Joe Tate (Ned Porteous), Robert was stunned when he announced that he was the new tenant farmer at Butler’s. Robert was torn between moving into Moira Dingle’s (Natalie J Robb) old home or staying put, knowing that living there would cause drama with partner Aaron Dingle’s (Danny Miller) family.
However, a passionate Robert decided to start his new job and move onto the farm. He renamed the land Emmerdale Farm, determined to continue doing what his family has loved for years.
‘The Sugdens have always been at the centre of our village, having been the original farming family when Emmerdale was first created,’ Laura previously enthused when Robert and Aaron’s move was confirmed. ‘This return to the farm’s roots is a powerful moment, echoing the early drama that unfolded when Annie Sugden and her sons, Jack and Joe, farmed the land. Taking over the tenancy, grandson Robert wants to do his best and make his dad proud. With his loyal partner Aaron, they are ready for this new chapter and committed to making the farm thrive. Farming remains a vital presence in Emmerdale, providing a daily dose of excitement and fresh air for our audience.’
Mystery Surrounding Serena
As Serena’s arrival looms, fans will no doubt be wondering just how exactly she is related to the Sugdens we know and love. A couple of years ago, new family member John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) was introduced – and I don’t need to remind you of all the things he was responsible for once he had moved into the Dales. Could mysterious Serena follow suit? Or will she bring drama to the family in another way?
