Emmerdale’s Isabel Hodgins Marks 20 Years as Victoria Sugden and Shares Joyful Career Update
Two Decades in the Dales
Emmerdale favourite Isabel Hodgins is celebrating a huge career milestone, marking 20 years playing Victoria Sugden, one of the soap’s most enduring and beloved characters.
Since first stepping into the role in 2006, Isabel has grown up on screen, taking Victoria from troubled teen to one of the Dales’ strongest, most resilient women. The actress took to Instagram to celebrate the moment, sharing a nostalgic throwback from her early days on the ITV soap.
Posting a picture from her first-ever scenes, she wrote: “Can’t believe I’ve entered my 20th year on Emmerdale. So many memories, amazing people, and stories over the years.”
A Character at the Heart of Emmerdale
Victoria Sugden, daughter of Jack and Sarah Sugden and adoptive sister to Andy, has been central to some of Emmerdale’s most emotional storylines. From heartbreak and loss to rebuilding her life in the face of trauma, Victoria remains a character fans deeply root for.
Most recently, she’s been caught up in the chaos surrounding John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), whose dark secrets have shaken the village to its core. In a shocking twist, Victoria discovered the extent of John’s crimes — including the accidental killing of Nate Robinson — leaving her reeling and unsure of her future in the Dales.
Maternity Leave and What’s Next
While fans will soon see Victoria step away from the village, Isabel has confirmed her temporary departure is due to maternity leave. Speaking to Metro at the Cure Usher Ball, she teased, “It’s still a surprise. They’re still cooking something up and we’ll see.”
Though details of her exit are being kept under wraps, Isabel promised viewers will “be in for a ride” as her character’s emotional journey continues in the coming weeks.
Personal Joy Beyond the Screen
Off-screen, Isabel’s life is just as full of excitement. The actress recently shared her pregnancy news in August, posting a sweet photo with husband Adam Whitehead holding their baby scan. She captioned it: “First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes… Baby Whitehead.”
Earlier this year, the couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony, sharing the moment with a pair of black-and-white polaroid photos showing off their wedding rings and a romantic kiss.
Her Emmerdale co-stars were quick to celebrate, with Daisy Campbell (Amelia Spencer) writing, “So happy for you Iz,” and Chris Bisson (Jai Sharma) adding, “Congratulations.”
A Legacy That Lasts
Two decades on, Isabel Hodgins remains one of Emmerdale’s most recognisable and respected stars. From award nominations early in her career to her current emotional storylines, her performance as Victoria has become a cornerstone of the soap’s success.
As she prepares to take a well-earned break and embrace motherhood, fans are left wondering what lies ahead for Victoria Sugden — but one thing is certain: her legacy in the Dales is already secured.