Emmerdale’s Kelvin Fletcher Declares “Best Soap Family Ever” in 30-Year Dingle Throwback
The Dingles at 30
Former Emmerdale favourite Kelvin Fletcher has taken a trip down memory lane, praising the Dingles as the “best soap family EVER” after a special throwback surfaced online.
Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, shared a snap of the original clan on Instagram to mark three decades since the Dingles first arrived in the village.
The picture featured Mandy, Butch, Zak, Tina, and Sam during their earliest days on the ITV soap. Lisa reflected:
“On this very day 30 years ago, @emmerdale… us old DINGLES, where it all began, all them years ago. We’ve made a mark as @itv turns 70 this week.”
Kelvin was quick to respond under the post, writing: “Best soap family EVER”. Lisa warmly replied: “Love ya.”
Lisa Riley’s 30-Year Legacy
Though Lisa originally joined for what was meant to be a short siege storyline, she went on to become one of Emmerdale’s most iconic characters. 2025 marks her 30th anniversary on the soap, cementing Mandy as one of the true cornerstones of the Dales.
Kelvin Fletcher’s Emmerdale Past
Kelvin himself joined the show in 1996 as Andy Sugden, adopted son of Jack and Sarah Sugden. He stayed on screen for two decades, becoming a fan favourite through turbulent storylines involving Robert Sugden, Katie Addyman, and the Barton brothers.
Viewers will never forget the dramatic exit that saw Andy flee the Dales in 2016 after being framed by Chrissie White for Lawrence’s shooting. With Robert’s help, Andy escaped on the day of his trial, ending their long-standing feud in one of the soap’s most gripping twists.
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Where Is Kelvin Now?
Away from acting, Kelvin now co-hosts a podcast, Off Script, alongside his wife Liz. The pair interview soap stars past and present, including names from both Emmerdale and Coronation Street.
Despite leaving almost a decade ago, Kelvin’s character Andy still holds a special place in fans’ hearts. And with Robert Sugden’s recent return, viewers remain hopeful that Andy could one day walk back into the village.