Emmerdale fans ‘work out’ Bob’s shock new love interest – and it’s returning Dales icon

Emmerdale’s Bob Hope could be set for an unexpected romance with a returning legend

Emmerdale Bob Hope’s new romance has been ‘rumbled’ – and it’s a returning face that fans know and love.

Bob (Tony Audenshaw) has been a staple on the soap since 2000. And as Emmerdale’s most married character, he’s had his fair share of failed romances over the years.

From marriages to Viv Windsor (Deena Payne) and Brenda Walker (Lesley Dunlop) to a scandalous affair with Laurel Thomas (Charlotte Bellamy), his time in the Dales has not been short of drama.

And earlier this week, the father-of-seven was left single when partner Wendy Posner (Susan Cookson) left the village after six years. Fans will recall how prior to her exit, Wendy confessed to selling a story about Rhona (Zöe Henry) to the press.

**Bob’s had a dramatic love life in the Dales** (Image: ITV)

After being blackmailed by the journalist, Wendy eventually confessed to her friends and family – leaving Bob both livid and heartbroken at Wendy’s deceit. Knowing there was nothing left for her in the village anymore, Wendy decided to leave for good.

Shortly after she left though, Bob opened up to former flame Brenda about the situation but misread the situation completely and kissed her – much to Brenda’s shock who soon shut him down.

**Wendy has left the village leaving Bob single**

Now, fans have ‘worked out’ who Bob’s next romance is with – and it’s someone he has serious history with. On an Emmerdale Facebook fan page, one person wrote: “Now Wendy is gone who will Bob move on with next?”

And other viewers were quick to put forward Bob’s ex-wife Jean Hope as his potential new love interest. Fans will know that Jean was Bob’s first wife, who made her first appearance back in 2003, played by Julie Higginson.

**Fans are predicting a Jean Hope return**

Susan Penhaligon then took over the role in 2006. Jean and Bob had two children, Dawn and Jamie – who Jean raised alone in Spain after Bob left. She was last seen in December 2006, when Jean left the village for Morocco and took her grandson T.J.

Predicting Jean’s return, one fan penned: “I’d like to see his ex-wife Jean come back!” A second replied: “Oh yes I forgot about her!” Echoing their thoughts, a third viewer wrote: “It would be a good way to bring her back and give Bob a decent storyline.” Another person penned: “Anyone but Brenda please.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm