Emmerdale hints at SHOCK romance between Marlon and Rhona - here are all the clues

Marlon and Rhona Emmerdale ITV
Marlon and Rhona Emmerdale ITV

Could there be a reunion on the cards for this former couple?

Emmerdale spoilers for the festive season have hinted there could be romance on the cards for Marlon Dingle and Rhona Goskirk (Zoe Henry) once again.

The pair, who share son Leo, have been on and off for years, with Rhona even trying to kiss Marlon earlier this year.

Marlon and Rhona Emmerdale ITV

Rhona and Marlon have always remained close (Picture: ITV)

Marlon's wife Jessie left him to start a new life in Dubai, while Rhona's partner Graham was murdered by her ex, Pierce, in January this year, leaving them both currently single.

More: Christmas TV Guide: the best shows to watch and when they're on

Despite their relationship ups and downs, Marlon and Rhona have managed to stay friends, with the pair sharing joint custody of their son.

Christmas romance on the cards?

But spoilers for episodes to air on New Year's Eve hint that there could be hope of a reunion between them at last.

Rhona and Marlon flirt in Emmerdale

Could Rhona and Marlon's New Year celebrations bring romance? (Picture: ITV)

As everyone else makes their plans to see in the New Year, Rhona asks Marlon to spend the evening with her.

He happily accepts her invitation, and Rhona is clearly thrilled at the idea of seeing in 2021 together.

After celebrating at Rhona's house, there is a moment of attraction between the pair and it seems there could be romance on the cards.

Reunited for 2021?

Speaking to Inside Soap, Zoe Henry hinted earlier this year that Rhona's love life could be looking up...

Leo brings joy to Marlon and Rhona in Emmerdale

Rhona and Marlon have a son, Leo, together (Picture: ITV)

"She could rekindle things with Marlon, which would be amazing for Leo, and for April, as Rhona is the closest she has to a mother.

"Professionally I have loved working with all the actors who have played Rhona's love interests, so I really couldn't pick a favourite.

"I've been very lucky!"

Will Rhona and Marlon reunite and make next year one they will both remember for all the right reasons?

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7pm on ITV, with an extra episode at 8pm on Thursdays - see our TV Guide for full listings.

Claire Crick
Assistant Managing Editor at What To Watch

Claire is Assistant Managing Editor at What To Watch and has been a journalist for over 15 years, writing about everything from soaps and TV to beauty, entertainment, and even the Royal Family. After starting her career at a soap magazine, she ended up staying for 13 years, and over that time she’s pulled pints in the Rovers Return, sung karaoke in the Emmerdale village hall, taken a stroll around Albert Square, and visited Summer Bay Surf Club in sunny Australia. 


After learning some tricks of the trade at websites Digital Spy, Entertainment Daily, and Woman & Home, Claire landed a role at What’s On TV and whattowatch.com writing about all things TV and film, with a particular love for Aussie soaps, Strictly Come Dancing and Bake Off


She’s interviewed everyone from June Brown — AKA Dot Cotton — to Michelle Keegan, swapped cooking tips with baking legend Mary Berry backstage at the NTAs, and danced the night away with soap stars at countless awards bashes. There’s not a lot she doesn’t know about soaps and TV and can be very handy when a soapy question comes up in a pub quiz! 


As well as all things soap-related, Claire also loves running, spa breaks, days out with her kids, and getting lost in a good book.