Dev surprised Aadi and Bernie as he unexpectedly returned during tonight’s episode

Dev Alahan (Jimmi Harkishin) made his return to Coronation Street tonight after his character had spent the last six months away in India – and fans all had the same comment.

The character has been a staple in the soap since his arrival in 1999 – but took an extended break from the show early this year. Viewers learnt that Dev had to attend to a family emergency in India as his aunt Gita had suffered a nasty fall.

It came after he recently proposed to his girlfriend, Bernie Winter, who he asked to accompany him. However, Bernie suggested it was best she stayed in Weatherfield following the tragic loss of her son, Paul Foreman.

During tonight’s episode, Dev made his highly-anticipated return to the cobbles after it was revealed Aadi and Brody had staged a robbery in the shop in a bid to claim insurance.

He then admitted to Bernie he’d taken out a loan, and the shop was six grand in debt.

Bernie promised to keep the secret from Dev – telling Aadi and Brody to stick to their story. As Bernie and Aadi discussed how they were going to keep it a secret, they were given the shock of their lives when Dev walked through the door.

“Surprise! I’m back!” he shouted as he gave them both a hug and a kiss. “This has been too, too long! What’s been going on? What have I been missing out on?” he questioned as the camera panned to worried faces on both Aadi and Bernie. The episode ended there – but will they be able to keep the secret for long?

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan said: “So glad Dev’s back!” as another overjoyed fan wrote: “Finally, Dev has returned!”

“About time Dev!” remarked a third, as another penned: “Dev returns! Dev and Bernie’s wedding incoming and it’s going to be carnage I can’t wait!”

“But now Dev is back. It should get interesting. I knew Jimi was coming back at some point. Ending was good. He comes through the door, lol,” responded another excited viewer. “Dev turned up at the perfect time,” laughed another.

Just recently, fans were wondering if Dev was ever going to be back, as he’d been missing from Weatherfield for most of the year. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan questioned: “Where the hell is Dev?” while another echoed: “Is Dev ever coming back?”

Now Dev has returned, but does this mean bad news for Aadi?