Emmerdale's Serena Sugden, played by Casey Al-Shaqsy, continues to stir up drama in the village as she adds another problematic lie to her growing list of secrets. Despite the deception, her bond with cousin Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) appears solid, according to the actress.
Serena's Troubled Arrival
Serena first appeared during Charity Dingle's (Emma Atkins) time of need, offering empathy after Charity's rape by Dr Todd. Charity shared her trauma and blackmail ordeal, as well as the secret behind baby Leyla's parentage. Unbeknownst to Charity, Serena is a relative of Sarah and Robert Sugden. Since moving into the village, Serena has clashed with Robert's fiancé, Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller), who is wary of long-lost Sugdens after his experience with the unstable John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth).
Strained Relationship with Aaron
Casey Al-Shaqsy described Serena's dynamic with Aaron: 'She tries so hard; she's always trying to be mates with him, and every time she stands up, it's like he kicks her down.' When Robert and Aaron discovered Serena had lied about how recently she'd seen John, she nearly faced banishment but managed to hold her ground. 'She loves Robert very dearly, so she wants Aaron to like her. She won't stop trying. She's like an annoying little spot that keeps coming back! Or an annoying rash. She's like, "I'm not going anywhere. Get used to me!"'
Strong Bond with Robert
Serena's connection with Robert is something she fiercely protects. Al-Shaqsy noted fans' positive reactions: 'I've seen on Twitter, "It's like they've always been family!" and I'm like, "Yeah!" I think the bond that you're seeing right now is pretty much the same as what you'll see.' She added, 'I think there may be eventual growth, but we're both happy to see each other. We both love each other very much. I think what a lot of people can relate to is having a family member whom you haven't seen in 15 years, but they're still your blood. Regardless of what happens, he loves me. Obviously, if I did anything truly nuts, I'm sure there'd be consequences, but with what's going on right now, you're seeing a very familial bond.'
Home Farm Break-In
A major question surrounds Serena's motives at Home Farm. After a stolen USB stick proved useless, she breaks in again and encounters Kev Townsend's old friend, Steve (Jason Done). Al-Shaqsy revealed Serena is unafraid of being caught or of Kim Tate (Claire King). 'I don't think she's scared of anybody. She has quite an aggressive background in the police force; you know, she talks to Robert and others about some of her famous fighting stories. As a person, I actually do kickboxing as well, so I relate to her in that way! But I don't think she's afraid of anyone.'
Confrontation with Steve
When Serena crosses paths with Steve, she tries to cover up her presence. 'Well, obviously, she tries to cover it up, saying, "I live here," all while wearing her gloves. The minute I noticed that, I realised I'd put my hands directly behind my back – like, "don't look at the fact that I have gloves on!"' Al-Shaqsy explained that Serena was wary but prepared. 'Also, she saw the door was broken into, so I think she was already prepared to see someone who'd forced their way in. She was wary of the fact that someone could have been there. But as a person, after he hits Ross, she has this moment of conflict, which you'll see. She's thinking, "Do I help Ross, or do I make a run for it?" In that split second, she's considering the fallout if she gets caught. Like I said, regarding my family finding out, she doesn't want the spotlight on her again or to be asked questions. She's already squashed all that. I think in that moment, she selfishly chooses herself and tries to make a run for it.'
