Emmerdale's series producer Kate Oates has revealed a "ruthless" new character will be joining the cast later this year.
Although plot details surrounding the newcomer are yet to be revealed, Kate hinted that the latest addition will shake up the dynamics of the village after he or she is introduced into the soap later this year.
She told Inside Soap magazine: "In the autumn there will be a new arrival with a very ruthless streak.
"It's going to affect some of the 'Emmerdale' old guard and mix up the character groups a little bit. Put it this way - the person will have a surprising allegiance."
Kate also hinted at an explosive autumn for the ITV soap as it welcomes back Aaron Livesy, played by Danny Miller, who departed the show in April 2012 after going on the run from the police.
The former 'Coronation Street' producer confirmed a current storyline will come to a head with scenes being shot away from the village.
Kate said: "We've got some big plans for the autumn ... we've got Aaron coming back.
"There will also be a huge pay-off for a story that started earlier this year, and I'm looking forward to it.
"It will happen in two stages and will be filmed somewhere away from the village. I know that's quite cryptic but that is all you're getting from me."
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