As Emmerdale ramps up toward what promises to be one of its most explosive weeks of the year, fans are buzzing about the on-screen wedding between John Sugden and Aaron Dingle. But behind the scenes, actor Oliver Farnworth, who plays the mysterious and emotionally layered John, is living out a love story just as compelling as any soap plot — with EastEnders legend Samantha Womack.

The pair have been together since 2019, after starring opposite one another in the stage adaptation of The Girl on the Train. Their chemistry was immediate — and real. What began as a professional partnership blossomed into a relationship rooted in mutual respect, shared experience, and personal growth.

Before landing the role of John Sugden in Emmerdale, Oliver made a name for himself on Coronation Street as Andy Carver — a character whose chilling exit is still talked about among fans. But stepping into the Dales came with its own emotional weight. Fortunately, Oliver had support from a surprising source: Samantha’s ex-husband and former soap star Mark Womack. In a twist straight out of a feel-good family drama, Oliver revealed that Mark encouraged him to take the role, praising Emmerdale as a “fantastic opportunity” and “a beautiful place to work.”

Their unconventional but supportive blended family moved to Spain for a time, seeking a quieter life away from the spotlight. During this period, Oliver grew close to Samantha’s children, Lily and Benjamin, forming strong familial bonds before diving back into the UK acting scene.

But life wasn’t without challenges. In August 2022, Samantha was diagnosed with breast cancer — a devastating moment that could have broken the couple. Instead, it brought them closer. In interviews, Oliver has spoken candidly about how the diagnosis reshaped their priorities and strengthened their connection. “It really saved us,” he said, reflecting on the experience. Samantha, determined as ever, continued working through radiotherapy while also moving house and performing on stage — all with unwavering grace.

By December 2022, she was declared cancer-free, and the couple emerged from the storm stronger than ever. Appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, Oliver praised her courage: “I’m in awe of her. She did everything with so much dignity.”

Back in Emmerdale, Oliver’s character John is caught in the middle of a murder mystery, a forbidden romance, and now, a high-stakes wedding to Aaron Dingle, played by Danny Miller. As viewers speculate about whether the ceremony will go off without a hitch, many are just as fascinated by Oliver’s off-screen journey — a blend of love, loyalty, and resilience that rivals any soap storyline.

And it’s not just Oliver stealing hearts. Samantha Womack, known for her iconic role as Ronnie Mitchell on EastEnders, has continued to thrive post-recovery, returning to the West End and taking on film roles with the same fierce energy that made her a fan favourite.

With rumours swirling that the couple may reunite on stage — or even make a surprise joint appearance in another soap — it’s clear their story is far from over.

For now, though, all eyes are on Emmerdale, where both onscreen and off, love is in the air… and secrets are never far behind.