Actress ‘thrilled’ to join Emmerdale for ‘gripping’ Sugden family storyline

By Carla Feric, Press Association Entertainment Reporter

Actress Casey Al-Shaqsy said she is “absolutely thrilled” to be joining Emmerdale as the newest member of the Sugden family.

Al-Shaqsy will portray the mysterious Serena Sugden, who is set to cause a stir with an “extremely gripping” storyline once she arrives in the village later this month.

She will be joining the beloved, long-running Sugden family, who have been central to the ITV soap since they were first introduced during its conception in 1972.

The latest member of the Sugden clan will be thrust into the drama after being dragged into the aftermath of an unknown character’s traumatic situation.

Speaking about her new role, Al-Shaqsy said:  “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining such an iconic show and playing a Sugden!

“Serena is a fantastic character with so much going on beneath the surface. I can’t wait for the audience to see the drama unfold.”

Her character is also hoped to strengthen the dynasty of the Sugden family.

Laura Shaw, Emmerdale producer, said: “The Sugden’s are a core part of the Emmerdale fabric, and we are thrilled to welcome Casey to the family.

“Her character will be at the heart of some extremely gripping and unexpected storylines, forcing her to make difficult choices that will have dramatic consequences for some of the village’s biggest names.”

Al-Shaqsy is best known for her West End roles, including in the UK tours of musicals such as Hamilton, Wicked and Six: The Musical.

She has also appeared in productions of Once On This Island, Bonnie And Clyde and the Prince Of Egypt.

Emmerdale airs weekday nights at 8pm on ITV1 and STV, or from 7am on ITVX, STV and YouTube.