John Tightens His Grip

Emmerdale is turning darker than ever tonight (September 4, 2025) as John Sugden takes his obsession with Aaron Dingle to terrifying new levels. After luring Aaron away to live with him in a remote cottage, John is now determined to make Aaron completely dependent on him.

John’s twisted plan unfolds after he confides in Mackenzie Boyd, who is still being held captive in the underground bunker near John’s hideout. Already controlling, John now wants to manipulate Aaron’s body as well as his mind.

Mack Learns the Truth

In tonight’s tense scenes, John pays Mack another visit. This time, he reveals that he’s been snooping through Mack’s phone and found messages from Aaron. Those texts suggest Aaron has been turning to Mack for advice about his doubts, even questioning whether being with John was a mistake.

John seizes on this insecurity, declaring that Aaron has not been faithful in their marriage — and using it as the perfect excuse to put his latest plan into motion.

A Sinister Scheme with Deadly Consequences

John explains to Mack that he intends to spike a bottle of whisky with drugs and trick Aaron into drinking it. His goal? To leave Aaron so unwell that he will rely on John for care, strengthening the illusion of love and dependence.

“This is what I’m doing,” John chillingly declares. “Aaron has to see how much he needs me, how much we love each other. Because no matter how many times he says the words, I don’t think he means them… not since Robert came back.”

Mack is horrified and begs John to reconsider, warning him that poisoning Aaron could end in tragedy — especially after Nate Robinson’s suspicious death, which fans know was John’s doing. But John ignores the warning, fully convinced he can bend Aaron to his will.

The Clock Is Ticking

With the drugs ready and the whisky poured, John’s shocking new plan is already underway by the time the episode reaches its climax. The stakes are higher than ever, as Aaron’s life could now be hanging in the balance.

Meanwhile, Mack’s desperation grows. Trapped in the bunker, powerless to intervene, he knows Aaron is walking straight into danger. The question is whether Mack can find a way to warn him — or if Aaron will fall victim to John’s deadly game.

Why This Twist Matters

This storyline marks a chilling turning point in Emmerdale. John is no longer satisfied with manipulation; he is now willing to risk Aaron’s health and life to maintain control. Fans will see the balance of power shift yet again, with Mack forced to choose between silence and survival.

The drama promises major shocks, emotional fallout, and more heartbreak for Charity Dingle, who still believes Mack has gone to London. With Robert’s shadow looming over Aaron and John spiraling further into obsession, this is one Emmerdale episode viewers won’t want to miss.