Isabel Hodgins Announces Maternity Leave After 19 Years on Emmerdale
Emmerdale star Isabel Hodgins, who has portrayed Victoria Sugden since 2006, has shared exciting news with fans: she and her husband, Adam Whitehead, are expecting their first child together. The couple is eagerly anticipating the arrival of their baby, who is due in early 2026. This announcement comes with a bittersweet twist, as Hodgins also revealed she will be taking a break from the soap to enjoy her maternity leave — a rare pause after 19 years on the show.
In an interview with The Mirror, Hodgins expressed mixed feelings about stepping away from her iconic role. “I will miss it,” she said. “I love the people there, but I’ve worked there for 19 years, so I feel like I’ve done what I’ve wanted to do and been selfish with my career. Now, it’s time to devote my life to being a mum, and that feels right to me.” She reassured fans, jokingly adding, “But there’s still FaceTime, so they won’t forget me!”
A Heartwarming Love Story
Hodgins and Whitehead, who tied the knot earlier this year, also shared some unique details about their love story. They discovered that they were both born in the same hospital, which ironically no longer has a maternity ward, meaning their baby won’t complete the “hat-trick.” The couple also attended the same school, though in different years, making for an interesting tale they look forward to telling their child in the future.
A Joyous Week for Emmerdale Stars
Hodgins’ pregnancy news comes amid a week of heartwarming announcements from the Emmerdale cast. Former cast member Paula Lane, known for her role as Ella Forster, also revealed she is expecting a child with her husband Tom Shaw. The couple announced that their baby boy is due in December 2025, adding to the joyous atmosphere surrounding the show.
With Hodgins and Lane both celebrating new chapters in their lives, fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Victoria Sugden’s departure from the soap will be handled, while also celebrating the personal milestones of the beloved stars.
