This year marks an emotional and incredible milestone for Emmerdale fans: Eden Taylor-Draper has played Belle Dingle for a remarkable 20 years. Since stepping into the role in 2005 at just seven years old, Belle has grown before our eyes—from a vulnerable child to a resilient woman. But if you thought her journey was ending, think again. Because in the upcoming weeks, Emmerdale is about to throw Belle right back into the center of the storm.

Eden, speaking on This Morning, was clearly emotional and grateful for the role that has defined most of her life. “Every day I walk in, I can’t believe that’s work,” she said. “I’m so grateful.” Reflecting on the harrowing storyline involving Belle’s abusive husband Tom King, she acknowledged how far she—and the character—have come. And yet, just as Belle begins to heal from the trauma of her past, a new chapter looms. One filled with mystery, romance, and the dangerous web of the Sugden family.

After finally escaping the grip of abuse and having her divorce from Tom King finalized, Belle is finally free—but peace in Emmerdale is never permanent. Hints from Eden suggest that a new love interest could be on the horizon. “I had a really fun day working with people,” she teased. The internet has already begun buzzing: Who could this new romantic partner be? And more importantly, will this be the healthy relationship Belle deserves—or just another trap in disguise?

But love isn’t the only thing on Belle’s radar.

She’s now connected to the most sinister storyline currently brewing in Emmerdale: the dark rise of John Sugden. John has already deceived the Dingles, covering up crimes and tearing the family apart from within. Belle, always sharp and emotionally intuitive, has started to suspect that something is very wrong. But unlike others, she’s not afraid to speak up.

As Cain Dingle rages with fury, dreaming of vengeance for Nate’s death, Belle finds herself in the unlikeliest of roles—peacemaker and strategist. Rather than letting Cain’s fury spiral into another arrest, she tries to guide him toward smarter justice. But don’t mistake Belle’s kindness for weakness. This woman has endured mental illness, abuse, betrayal—and survived it all. If anyone can help bring John Sugden down, it’s Belle.

In upcoming episodes, Belle will also take center stage in the Dingles’ mourning of Nate Robinson. Tracy has banned the Dingles from Nate’s funeral, leaving Belle in the heartbreaking role of family mediator. As she tries to convince Tracy to allow them to say goodbye properly, she also carries the weight of a community fractured by grief and revenge.

But the question remains: Can Belle ever truly find peace?

After two decades of emotional storylines, Emmerdale seems ready to place Belle Dingle at the heart of a multi-layered new arc—one that blends family loyalty, romantic uncertainty, and potential justice. Will she find love again, or end up heartbroken once more? Will her insight be the key to finally stopping John Sugden’s rise to power? And how will the trauma of the past shape her future?

For fans who’ve grown up with Belle, this new storyline is both a reward and a challenge. We want to see her happy. We want to see her rise. But we also know—this is Emmerdale. Nothing ever stays peaceful for long.

One thing’s for sure: Belle Dingle’s 20th year is not just a celebration of the past. It’s a warning of the emotional earthquakes to come.

Watch closely. The next twist might change everything.