John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) has long sown an inexplicable unease in Emmerdale.

He is unlike the usual villains, because his motive for killing comes from a sick delusion of wanting to become a “hero”.

John is willing to endanger innocent people, only to be the one to save them.

The audience shuddered when Jacob (Joe-Warren Plant) suddenly had an allergic shock because John switched drinks, or when Chas (Lucy Pargeter) was drugged.

He also attacked villagers many times, all just to be praised for “acting at the right time”.

But the truth is even more shocking: John is the one who murdered Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter). As the secret is gradually exposed, John becomes a dangerous fugitive, spreading anxiety throughout the village. In the new episode, he hides at Keepers Cottage, a needle filled with poison in his hand, aimed at Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley).

His revenge plan is foiled when Robert unexpectedly returns with Victoria (Isabel Hodgins) and their son Harry. John is forced to retreat, but his eyes are filled with hatred. The chilling line: “If I can’t be a hero, I’ll be a nightmare you’ll never forget” signals a chain of tragedies about to erupt.

John is not just a murderer, he’s also the dark storm that’s looming over Emmerdale – and anyone could be next.