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Diane Sugden (also Blackstock) is a fictional character from the
British British may refer to: Peoples, culture, and language * British people, nationals or natives of the United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories, and Crown Dependencies. ** Britishness, the British identity and common culture * British English, ...
soap opera ''
Emmerdale ''Emmerdale'' (known as ''Emmerdale Farm'' until 1989) is a British soap opera that is broadcast on ITV1. The show is set in Emmerdale (known as Beckindale until 1994), a fictional village in the Yorkshire Dales. Created by Kevin Laffan, '' ...
'', played by
Elizabeth Estensen Elizabeth Estensen (born 10 August 1949) is an English actress, known for portraying the role of Diane Sugden on the ITV (TV channel), ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 1999 to 2021, with a guest stint in 2022. She has also made appearances in v ...
. Since her first appearance in 1999, she has been involved in several high-profile storylines, including her marriage to
Jack Sugden John Jacob "Jack" Sugden is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. The character was originally played by Andrew Burt from 1972 to 1973 with a brief return in 1976, when the actor left for Italy to write a book. ...
(
Clive Hornby Clive William Hornby (20 October 1944 – 3 July 2008) was an English actor, best known for his role as Jack Sugden in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He first appeared in the programme (then named ''Emmerdale Farm'') in 1980, and remained in ...
) and his subsequent death, a battle with
colon cancer Colorectal cancer (CRC), also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine). Signs and symptoms may include blood in the stool, a change in bowel mo ...
, the revelation that her ex-husband
Rodney Blackstock Rodney Blackstock is a fictional character from the British television soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Patrick Mower. He made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 24 October 2000. He was introduced as the estranged father of ...
(
Patrick Mower Patrick Mower (born Patrick Archibald Shaw; 12 September 1938) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Rodney Blackstock in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' since 2000. As well as portraying Rodney, Mower has appeared in various films ...
) fathered her sister
Val Lambert Val may refer to: Val-a Film * ''Val'' (film), an American documentary about Val Kilmer, directed by Leo Scott and Ting Poo Military equipment * Aichi D3A, a Japanese World War II dive bomber codenamed "Val" by the Allies * AS Val, a So ...
's (
Charlie Hardwick Claire Elizabeth Hardwick (born 3 November 1960)
''
Eric Pollard Eric Pollard (also Pollock) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Chris Chittell. He made his first appearance in the soap on 30 September 1986. Having appeared continuously since, he is currently the lon ...
(
Chris Chittell Christopher John Chittell (born 19 May 1948) is an English actor, known for his role as Eric Pollard in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He has portrayed the role since 1986, making him the longest-serving cast member in the soap's history. B ...
), being involved in a helicopter crash which kills Val, being stabbed by
Chas Dingle Chas Dingle (also Spencer) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Lucy Pargeter. She made her first appearance during the episode broadcast on 16 October 2002. Chas returned on 21 September 2003. Chas was ...
(
Lucy Pargeter Lucy Kate Pargeter (born 1 March 1977) is an English actress, known for her roles as Helen Raven in ''Crossroads'' (2002–2003) and Chas Dingle in ''Emmerdale'' (2002–present). She also finished third in the 13th series of the ITV reality s ...
), and a feud with
Chrissie White Chrissie White (23 May 1895 – 18 August 1989) was a British film actress of the silent film, silent era. She appeared in more than 180 films between 1908 and 1933. White married actor and film director Henry Edwards (actor), Henry Edwards ...
(
Louise Marwood Louise Marwood (born 13 March 1979) is an English actress and comedian, known for portraying the role of Chrissie White in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'', which she played from 2014 until 2018. Early life Marwood was born on 13 March 1979 in ...
). In September 2021, it was announced that Estensen had made the decision to take a break from acting and her initial final appearance as Diane aired on 29 October 2021. However, the following year, Estensen returned to the role of Diane for a guest stint on 12 October 2022 to celebrate ''Emmerdale''s 50th anniversary.


Storylines

Diane raised her daughter
Bernice Blackstock Bernice Blackstock (also Thomas and White) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Samantha Giles. She made her first on screen appearance on 25 November 1998. In September 2012, it was announced Giles ...
(
Samantha Giles Samantha Elizabeth Giles (born 2 July 1971) is an English actress and author. She is known for portraying the role of Bernice Blackstock in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. She had also portrayed Sally Boothe in the ITV drama series '' Where t ...
) alone after her husband
Rodney Blackstock Rodney Blackstock is a fictional character from the British television soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Patrick Mower. He made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 24 October 2000. He was introduced as the estranged father of ...
(
Patrick Mower Patrick Mower (born Patrick Archibald Shaw; 12 September 1938) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Rodney Blackstock in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' since 2000. As well as portraying Rodney, Mower has appeared in various films ...
) left her. Diane struggled to raise Bernice alone, and by her own admission was a far from perfect mother. However, Diane cares deeply for her daughter, and is a key source of support when Bernice's engagement to Gavin Ferris ( Robert Beck) collapses. After initially only coming to Emmerdale to attend Bernice's wedding, Diane decides to stay and take Gavin's place as Bernice's business partner, with the two buying The Woolpack together. Diane offers comfort to Jack Sugden who has been through difficult times, following his discovery that his former wife,
Sarah Sugden Sarah (born Sarai) is a biblical matriarch and prophetess, a major figure in Abrahamic religions. While different Abrahamic faiths portray her differently, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all depict her character similarly, as that of a piou ...
(
Alyson Spiro Alyson Spiro is a British actress, best known for portraying Sarah Sugden on the British television soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 1994–2000. She took over the role from Madeleine Howard, after she decided to leave the ITV show after six years. ...
), has cheated on him. They kiss but decide to be friends. They remain close for a number of years. Rodney reappears in Diane and Bernice's lives after abandoning them. Bernice forgives Rodney but Diane is more hesitant. There is still a spark between Diane and Rodney and the two spend a night together but Diane calls things off. After failed relationships with builder Jerry "Mack" MacKinley (Rob Dixon) and Alan Turner (
Richard Thorp Richard Stanley Thorp (2 January 1932 – 22 May 2013) was an English actor. He was best known for his 30-year tenure portraying Alan Turner in the ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 1982 to 2013. He also appeared in films such ...
), Diane and Jack reunite and started considering life together. When Diane decides to join Bernice in Brighton, Jack proposes in an attempt to get her to stay. Diane is horrified to discover she has
colon cancer Colorectal cancer (CRC), also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine). Signs and symptoms may include blood in the stool, a change in bowel mo ...
. She goes to a funeral in Scarborough with Rodney, trying to come to terms with the news. Rodney does not know about her illness and Val assumes they are having an affair. Upon finding out Diane is ill, Rodney ends things with Val, begging Diane to give their relationship another chance. However, she rejects him and soon begins planning her wedding to Jack. They marry on 21 September 2004, when Jack's daughter Victoria Sugden tells the congregation about Diane's cancer illness. After the ceremony, Diane's younger sister
Val Lambert Val may refer to: Val-a Film * ''Val'' (film), an American documentary about Val Kilmer, directed by Leo Scott and Ting Poo Military equipment * Aichi D3A, a Japanese World War II dive bomber codenamed "Val" by the Allies * AS Val, a So ...
(
Charlie Hardwick Claire Elizabeth Hardwick (born 3 November 1960)
''
Paul Lambert Paul Lambert (born 7 August 1969) is a Scottish professional football manager and former player, who was most recently the manager of Ipswich Town. Lambert played as a midfielder and won the Scottish Cup in 1987 with St Mirren as a 17-year-ol ...
(
Mathew Bose Mathew Bose (born 3 July 1977) is a British actor. He is best known for his role as Paul Lambert in the soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 2004 to 2010 and again in 2015. Life and career Bose was born 3 July 1977 in South East London. He has an ol ...
). Horrified by Val's selfishness, Diane disowns her. She is given the all-clear from cancer early in the New Year. Diane struggles to cope with Jack's children, at the detriment to her health. She becomes a victim of the Kings River Showhome explosion, but makes a full recovery (albeit with a "Live for the Moment" outlook on life). Diane falls for
Billy Hopwood William "Billy" Hopwood is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera, ''Emmerdale'', played by David Crellin. Casting Crellin first appeared in ''Emmerdale'' in 1997, when Billy was one of a host of new characters producers introdu ...
(
David Crellin David Crellin (born 1961) is an English actor. Crellin, who was born in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, is known for roles in ''Emmerdale'' as Billy Hopwood, BBC 2's BAFTA award-winning series '' The Cops'' as Alan Wakefield, and ''Coronation Stree ...
) and they begin an
emotional affair The term emotional affair describes a type of relationship between people. The term often describes a bond between two people that mimics or matches the closeness and emotional intimacy of a romantic relationship while not being physically cons ...
. She and Jack try to work through their problems but end up separating. However they grew closer following Andy's conviction for manslaughter and whilst Jack was in Spain, Diane received a text mentioning patching things up on his return. While Jack is away, Diane takes over looking after the family and rebuilds bridges. She is appalled when Andy is discovered to be beating his ex-wife, Jo but helps him when he suffers a breakdown. Diane is devastated when Jack dies in February 2009. She is comforted by a letter he had written before his death, letting her know how much he loved her. Diane tries to move on with her life, but struggles. Val, after receiving an offer for the pub from
Maisie Wylde Maisie Foster (also Wylde) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Alice Coulthard. The character was introduced by series producer Anita Turner and first appeared in 2009. It was announced on 30 June 2010 ...
(
Alice Coulthard Alice Coulthard (born 18 November 1983 in London) is an English actress. She is best known for her role as Maisie Wylde in ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. Education Alice Coulthard attended Fortismere School, Muswell Hill, N10 and later graduated ...
), tries to convince Diane she is too depressed to stay on as owner and should sell up. When Diane learns of Val's scheme, she shocks her by pretending she plans to sell to Rodney and Nicola. She then chased Val out of the pub with a water squirter.
Sandy Thomas Sandy Thomas is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Freddie Jones. Sandy was introduced as the father of Ashley Thomas ( John Middleton). He made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 6 No ...
(
Freddie Jones Frederick Charles Jones''Births, Marriages & Deaths Index of England & Wales, 1916-2005.''; at ancestry.com (12 September 1927 – 9 July 2019) was an English actor who had an extensive career in television, theatre and cinema productions for a ...
), who constantly argues with his son
Ashley Thomas Ashley Thomas is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by John Middleton. He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 5 December 1996. It was announced on 22 October 2015 that Middleto ...
( John Middleton), asks if he can move into The Woolpack and Diane agrees.
Douglas Potts Douglas "Doug" Potts is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera, ''Emmerdale'', played by Duncan Preston. In July 2010, Preston announced that he was taking a break from the show, initially temporarily for several months to allo ...
(
Duncan Preston Duncan Preston (born 11 August 1946) is an English actor. He is known for his appearances in television productions written by Victoria Wood, including his role in the soap opera parody sketches ''Acorn Antiques'' and as Stan in the sitcom ''di ...
) helps Sandy move in, and after a few drinks, Diane impulsively kisses him. She realises she needs to sort herself out, and leaves to visit Bernice,
Louise Appleton Louise Appleton is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera, ''Emmerdale'', played by Emily Symons. She made her first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 20 June 2001. Louise arrived in the village as a temporary barm ...
(
Emily Symons Emily Symons (born 10 August 1969) is an Australian-born actress, active on both Australian and British television. She is known for playing Anne Costello in the short-lived soap opera '' Richmond Hill'' in 1988 and when that series ended, from ...
) and Paul, respectively. On her return she discovers Daz has left, and Andy has given custody of his daughter Sarah to
Debbie Dingle Debbie Dingle (also Jones and Barton) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Charley Webb. Webb has taken maternity leave three times, with the first time being in 2010 and the second throughout 2016 ...
(
Charley Webb Charlotte Anne Webb (born 26 February 1988), commonly known as Charley Webb, is an English actress. From 2002 to 2021, she portrayed the role of Debbie Dingle in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. In 2014, she was nominated for Best Female Dra ...
) and is on the verge of a breakdown. Following another fall out with her Val, Diane realises that they can no longer work together and she uses the inheritance left to her by Jack to buy Val out, making her the sole owner of The Woolpack Inn. Charlie Haynes (
George Costigan George J. Costigan (born 8 August 1947) is an English actor who is best known for portraying Bob in the 1987 film ''Rita, Sue and Bob Too'' and for roles in TV series such as '' Happy Valley'' and ''So Haunt Me''. Early life Born in Portsmouth, ...
), an old friend of Rodney's, wins Diane's heart. Their relationship gets off to a good start, and Charlie whisks Diane away on romantic holidays, and away to France, even taking Victoria along so she can brush up on her French. On this trip Diane opens up to Charlie and tells him about her cancer. However, their happiness comes to a halt as Charlie reveals to Diane he was suffering from an inoperable
brain tumour A brain tumor occurs when abnormal cells form within the brain. There are two main types of tumors: malignant tumors and benign (non-cancerous) tumors. These can be further classified as primary tumors, which start within the brain, and secondary ...
, meaning he will die and does not have long left. Making the most of their time left, Charlie and Diane decide to move to France, with Diane deciding to sell The Woolpack. On the night of her leaving party, Charlie leaves to inform his daughter of his illness. The next day, a worried Rodney phones the hospital, only to find there are no records of Charlie or his doctor ever being at the hospital, and Rodney and Doug find Charlie's shop had never been used. Diane and Val go to France, only to find the Charlie's chateau is in fact, someone else's and the owner has never heard of Charlie. Diane then realises she has been conned and is left devastated. Val then comforts Diane as she bursts into tears. Doug offers Diane his life savings, which she tearfully accepts, much to the annoyance of Doug's daughter, Laurel, who then goes on to warn Diane it is only a loan, and she must pay Doug back as soon as she can. Diane hopes that she may now have a future for Doug, but he reconciles with estranged wife, Hilary (
Paula Wilcox Paula Wilcox (born 13 December 1949) is an English actress. With a career spanning over 50 years, she is best known for her role as Chrissy in the popular ITV sitcom ''Man About The House'' from 1973 to 1976. She has also had roles in TV shows ...
), and leaves in early 2011 to travel the world with her, leaving Diane once again heartbroken. The following year, Diane tries to sell the pub, wanting a fresh start and finding it an increasing struggle running the place on her own, but unable to find a buyer for the whole business, she settles for
Chas Dingle Chas Dingle (also Spencer) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Lucy Pargeter. She made her first appearance during the episode broadcast on 16 October 2002. Chas returned on 21 September 2003. Chas was ...
(
Lucy Pargeter Lucy Kate Pargeter (born 1 March 1977) is an English actress, known for her roles as Helen Raven in ''Crossroads'' (2002–2003) and Chas Dingle in ''Emmerdale'' (2002–present). She also finished third in the 13th series of the ITV reality s ...
) buying a stake in the Woolpack and becoming her new business partner. Diane and Chas' friendship and partnership becomes strained in 2012 after the revelation of Chas' affair with Cameron Murray (
Dominic Power Dominic Power (born 5 May 1973) is an English actor. Power has portrayed Leon Taylor in the ITV police drama ''The Bill'' and Cameron Murray in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He is currently appearing in the Channel 4 soap opera ''Hollyoaks' ...
). Diane is touched when Andy and Debbie name their newborn son after Jack. Bernice returns before Christmas after her marriage falls apart and Diane departs shortly after Bernice returns and travels to Brighton to look after her daughter, Dee-Dee. Diane returns in early June, to say she wants to go live with Dee-Dee in Brisbane, and wants to sell her share on The Woolpack. In October 2013, Diane, along with many other villagers including Bernice and Nicola, is held hostage in The Woolpack by Cameron, who has escaped from prison. He orders for Diane to look out of the window, but she shouts to help, so he pulls her away, causing her to fall over and hit her head on a table. She sustains a cut to the head, and is later released by Cameron. Diane has sex with
Eric Pollard Eric Pollard (also Pollock) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Chris Chittell. He made his first appearance in the soap on 30 September 1986. Having appeared continuously since, he is currently the lon ...
(
Chris Chittell Christopher John Chittell (born 19 May 1948) is an English actor, known for his role as Eric Pollard in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He has portrayed the role since 1986, making him the longest-serving cast member in the soap's history. B ...
), Val's husband. Victoria reveals that Val is
HIV positive The human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) are two species of '' Lentivirus'' (a subgroup of retrovirus) that infect humans. Over time, they cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition in which progressive failure of the immu ...
. Diane goes to a clinic that day, lying that she has been exposed to HIV post exposure treatment to combat the virus. Diane later reveals the truth and Val humiliates the pair by revealing their one-night stand. In August 2015, Diane is furious when she hears that Val is planning to fake her own death to escape a prison sentence, and refuses to talk to her. In an attempt to make the pair reconcile, Eric, Rodney and Doug lock Val and Diane in a hall of mirrors so that they have no choice but talk to one another. However, after arguing continually, they are spooked when they lose light in the hall of mirrors, after a helicopter crash caused by
Chrissie White Chrissie White (23 May 1895 – 18 August 1989) was a British film actress of the silent film, silent era. She appeared in more than 180 films between 1908 and 1933. White married actor and film director Henry Edwards (actor), Henry Edwards ...
(
Louise Marwood Louise Marwood (born 13 March 1979) is an English actress and comedian, known for portraying the role of Chrissie White in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'', which she played from 2014 until 2018. Early life Marwood was born on 13 March 1979 in ...
). Soon after, an explosion rips through the village as a result of the helicopter crash, reaching the hall of mirrors and trapping Val and Diane. They repair their relationship before firefighters arrive, where Val insists that Diane is rescued first. Val dies when a large shard of glass falls and impales her. Diane's overwhelming grief is met with further devastation when Eric bans her from her sister's funeral. After Robert is shot in the village, Chas and Diane fall out as Diane believes that Chas' son
Aaron Livesy Aaron Dingle (previously Sugden-Dingle, also Livesy) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Danny Miller. The character was originally played by Danny Webb and appeared in a recurring capacity. Aaron made ...
( Danny Miller), is the culprit. Their feud results in Diane briefly moving in with Doug. Chas begins sleepwalking and trashes the pub at night due to the stress of watching Robert being shot. Chas believes
Emma Barton Emma Louise Barton (born 26 July 1977) is an English actress. She is perhaps best known for the role of Honey Mitchell in ''EastEnders'' which she has portrayed on and off since November 2005. Before her role in ''EastEnders'', Barton appeared ...
(
Gillian Kearney Gillian Louise Kearney
) is responsible. One night when Diane returns from a meal with her family, she accidentally knocks over a glass, which causes Chas to think that Emma has broken in. Chas grabs a knife and stabs Diane, leaving her bleeding on the floor while she calls Aaron and
Cain Dingle Cain Dingle is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Jeff Hordley. Cain made his first appearance on 30 March 2000, and in 2006, he was written out of the series when Hordley left the soap; however, the opti ...
(
Jeff Hordley Jeff Hordley (born 7 March 1970) is an English actor, best known for portraying the role of Cain Dingle in the ITV soap opera, ''Emmerdale''. For his portrayal of Cain, he has been nominated for the British Soap Award for Best Actor at three ce ...
). Diane is rushed to hospital and Chas hands herself in to the police for stabbing Diane. However, after being treated for the stab wounds, Diane is informed by a doctor that they have discovered abnormalities in her stomach, and later reveal that Diane has
stomach cancer Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a cancer that develops from the lining of the stomach. Most cases of stomach cancers are gastric carcinomas, which can be divided into a number of subtypes, including gastric adenocarcinomas. Lymph ...
. This causes Diane to re-evaluate her life and she sells her share of the pub. Diane and Doug buy a share of The Grange B&B, becoming partners with Eric. Diane meets and bonds with Aaron's father
Gordon Livesy The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'' in 2003, by order of first appearance. Freda Darby Freda Darby is an acquaintance of Jarvis Skelton. She appeared in 2003 and 2005. After appe ...
(
Gary Mavers Gary John Mavers (born 1 September 1964), is an English television actor. Mavers graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, and is best known for his portrayals of GP Andrew Attwood in ''Peak Practice'' which he worked on for 5 years as a ...
) during her chemotherapy sessions. Diane supports Gordon when he re-enters Chas and Aaron's life, but it soon emerges that Gordon sexually abused Aaron when he was young. Diane apologises to Chas for letting Gordon back into her and Aaron's lives. A couple weeks later, Diane is called away to look after Annie in Spain after she falls ill, and she leaves Doug to handle the B&B. The following month, it is revealed that Diane sold her share of the pub to
Charity Dingle Charity Dingle (also Tate, Sharma and Macey) is a fictional character from the British television soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Emma Atkins. Suranne Jones originally auditioned for the role of Charity prior to Atkins being cast in the ro ...
(
Emma Atkins Emma Jayne Atkins (born 31 March 1975) is an English actress, best known for her role as Charity Dingle in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. Early life Atkins grew up in the village of Silverdale, Lancashire, and then went to study at the Unive ...
), but is unaware that Charity does not have the money to officially buy the share, and that she still owes her and Doug the money. After returning from Spain, Diane and Doug decide to rent Brook Cottage, as The Woolpack is full. Bernice joins them after the break down of her marriage to Lawrence White ( John Bowe). Diane learns that Chrissie fitted Andy up for the attempted murder of her father Lawrence, knowing it was her son
Lachlan White ''Emmerdale'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on 16 October 1972. The following is a list of characters that first appeared or will appear during 2014, by order of first appearance. William Makepeace (Dudley Sutton) and his grandson, Se ...
(Thomas Atkinson) who shot Lawrence. Furthermore, she is shocked to discover that Robert, Bernice, Victoria and Aaron all knew what the Whites had done, and that Robert had joined forces with Lawrence's other daughter,
Rebecca White Rebecca Peta White (born 4 February 1983) is an Australian politician. She has been the Leader of the Opposition (Tasmania), Leader of the Opposition in Tasmania and Leader of the Parliamentary Australian Labor Party (Tasmanian Branch), Labor ...
(
Emily Head Emily Head (born 15 December 1988) is an English actress. Her breakout role was as Carli D'Amato in E4's sitcom ''The Inbetweeners'' and she later played Rebecca White in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' and Colette Andrews in BBC drama, ''The ...
) to seek revenge on Chrissie. Diane throws a brick through the Home Farm window, resulting in Chrissie phoning the police and Diane being cautioned. However, before the police are called, Chrissie serves Diane, Doug and Bernice an eviction notice for Brook Cottage but after the police caution, Lawrence revokes the eviction notice. However, Diane decides to confront Lachlan, and when he insults Andy, Diane slaps him. The following day, Diane confronts Chrissie at Home Farm, and when she continues to refuse to listen to her, Diane threatens Chrissie with Lawrence's shotgun, which Lachlan films on his mobile phone to show the police. However, Chrissie informs Diane that she believes that Lachlan is dangerous and wanted to kill the family on purpose, upsetting Lachlan and ending her feud with Diane.


Development

The character was introduced in November 1999 as the mother of established regular
Bernice Blackstock Bernice Blackstock (also Thomas and White) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Samantha Giles. She made her first on screen appearance on 25 November 1998. In September 2012, it was announced Giles ...
(
Samantha Giles Samantha Elizabeth Giles (born 2 July 1971) is an English actress and author. She is known for portraying the role of Bernice Blackstock in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. She had also portrayed Sally Boothe in the ITV drama series '' Where t ...
). Actress
Elizabeth Estensen Elizabeth Estensen (born 10 August 1949) is an English actress, known for portraying the role of Diane Sugden on the ITV (TV channel), ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 1999 to 2021, with a guest stint in 2022. She has also made appearances in v ...
described Diane as "a tart with a heart", and stated "Diane likes a good time, is kind-hearted and easy to get on with." Diane immediately flirts with Alan Turner (
Richard Thorp Richard Stanley Thorp (2 January 1932 – 22 May 2013) was an English actor. He was best known for his 30-year tenure portraying Alan Turner in the ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 1982 to 2013. He also appeared in films such ...
) and
Eric Pollard Eric Pollard (also Pollock) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Chris Chittell. He made his first appearance in the soap on 30 September 1986. Having appeared continuously since, he is currently the lon ...
(
Chris Chittell Christopher John Chittell (born 19 May 1948) is an English actor, known for his role as Eric Pollard in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He has portrayed the role since 1986, making him the longest-serving cast member in the soap's history. B ...
), leading Estensen to point out that "there's no doubt that she likes male company." Estensen was not a fan of her character's style, which initially consisted of high heels and tight clothing. Estensen also had to wear a blonde wig for the role. She called Diane "more flamboyant than Bernice". Producers established a friendship between Diane and
Jack Sugden John Jacob "Jack" Sugden is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. The character was originally played by Andrew Burt from 1972 to 1973 with a brief return in 1976, when the actor left for Italy to write a book. ...
(
Clive Hornby Clive William Hornby (20 October 1944 – 3 July 2008) was an English actor, best known for his role as Jack Sugden in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale''. He first appeared in the programme (then named ''Emmerdale Farm'') in 1980, and remained in ...
) amidst his marriage breakdown and custody battle. Estensen said Diane initially visits Jack to offer moral support. She continued "They've been talking, she's enjoying his company, and then one evening, one thing leads to another and they spend the night together." Diane is disappointed to learn that Jack only thinks of their night together as a comfort during his marital problems. Estensen told an ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' writer that Diane is attracted to Jack, but he wants to make sure that no one finds out what happened between them. As Diane "honourably" promises to keep their night to herself, Estensen said that it actually brings the pair closer together as friends. She also said that she was initially concerned when she learned of the storyline, as she thought that viewers would be put off by people of Jack and Diane's age kissing and having sex. But she found that the plot was "absolutely fine in the end" and Hornby was "terribly nice" during filming. The plot starts a three year on/off romance between the characters, which culminates in their marriage in September 2004. Estensen thought Jack and Diane made "a good team because they're such an unlikely couple, and with that, they kind of complement one another." She told Andy Baker of ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' that Diane does not fit the stereotype of a farmer's wife, but Jack is "her rock" and is always there for her, unlike her former husband
Rodney Blackstock Rodney Blackstock is a fictional character from the British television soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played by Patrick Mower. He made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 24 October 2000. He was introduced as the estranged father of ...
(
Patrick Mower Patrick Mower (born Patrick Archibald Shaw; 12 September 1938) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Rodney Blackstock in the ITV soap opera ''Emmerdale'' since 2000. As well as portraying Rodney, Mower has appeared in various films ...
). In the lead up to the wedding, Diane is secretly battling bowel cancer and Rodney confesses his love for her, leading to an argument with her sister
Val Lambert Val may refer to: Val-a Film * ''Val'' (film), an American documentary about Val Kilmer, directed by Leo Scott and Ting Poo Military equipment * Aichi D3A, a Japanese World War II dive bomber codenamed "Val" by the Allies * AS Val, a So ...
(
Charlie Hardwick Claire Elizabeth Hardwick (born 3 November 1960)
''
The argument leads Val to admit that Rodney fathered her son
Paul Lambert Paul Lambert (born 7 August 1969) is a Scottish professional football manager and former player, who was most recently the manager of Ipswich Town. Lambert played as a midfielder and won the Scottish Cup in 1987 with St Mirren as a 17-year-ol ...
(
Mathew Bose Mathew Bose (born 3 July 1977) is a British actor. He is best known for his role as Paul Lambert in the soap opera ''Emmerdale'' from 2004 to 2010 and again in 2015. Life and career Bose was born 3 July 1977 in South East London. He has an ol ...
), meaning they had an affair while Diane and Rodney were married. Estensen called it "a massive shock" and told Baker that a lot of implications rush into her head. She branded the Blackstock family "completely incestuous", as Bernice is Paul's cousin and sister, and Rodney's daughter
Nicola Blackstock Nicola may refer to: People * Nicola (name), including a list of people with the given name or, less commonly, the surname **Nicola (artist) or Nicoleta Alexandru, singer who represented Romania at the 2003 Eurovision Song Contest * Nicola people, ...
(
Nicola Wheeler Nicola Wheeler (born 4 April 1974) is an English actress. After appearing in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' in the recurring role of Melanie Tindel in 1999, Wheeler began portraying the role of Nicola King in the ITV soap opera ''Emmer ...
) now has a half-brother. Shortly before the ceremony, Diane has a talk with her future step-daughter
Victoria Sugden Victoria Sugden (also Barton) is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Emmerdale'', played since 12 October 2006 by Isabel Hodgins. As a young child, Victoria was played by Jessica Heywood until 1997, followed by Hannah Midgley fro ...
(
Hannah Midgley Hannah Elizabeth Midgley (born 27 October 1993) is an English actress best known for playing Victoria Sugden on the ITV (TV network), ITV programme ''Emmerdale''. She replaced Jessica Haywood in 1997 and left in July 2006 to concentrate on her ...
) about Paul and her cancer diagnosis, which brings them closer together. Diane then marries Jack in front of their family and friends. During the ceremony, Victoria reveals Diane's cancer diagnosis to the congregation, and Estensen said Diane is "shocked and thrilled, it doesn't seem a problem. It's just very emotional." The wedding episode was filmed during a spell of bad weather, so most of the outdoor scenes were cancelled and the cast had to shoot additional interior scenes. Estensen hoped that Jack and Diane would stay faithful, as Diane had been messed around by men all her life. She stated that Diane had finally found someone who she really cares about and she did not want to think that either of them would have an affair within weeks of the wedding. She added "It took so long to get here that it would be wrong to throw it away." On 17 September 2021, it was announced that Estensen had made the decision to take a break from acting. It was confirmed that she had already filmed her final scenes as Diane prior to the announcement. Speaking on her decision to take a break and depart from the role, she commented: "For the past 22 years I have loved playing Diane Sugden. She's kind, reliable and fiercely loyal. However, I now feel the time has come to say goodbye. ''Emmerdale'' will always remain special to me. I've been treated with respect and kindness and I've had the very best friends and colleagues, both past and present. I’ll miss everyone dearly." However, under a year later, it was announced that Estensen would reprise her role as Diane for a guest stint in October 2022, as part of ''Emmerdale''s 50th anniversary celebrations.


References


External links


Diane Sugden
at
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Diane Sugden
at
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Sugden, Diane Emmerdale characters Television characters introduced in 1999 Female characters in television Fictional people from Newcastle upon Tyne Fictional bartenders Fictional female businesspeople Fictional characters with cancer