Emmerdale spoilers suggest something big could be brewing for the Barton family, as Mike Parr, who played Ross Barton, has hinted at a potential new addition to the village. In a recent interview, the actor revealed his dream casting for a character who’s been part of Emmerdale lore but never seen on screen: Nana Barton. Could this be the storyline that brings fresh drama to the Dales? Let’s unpack everything Mike had to say and what it could mean for the future of the show.
Mike Parr Reflects on His On-Screen Family
Mike Parr hasn’t forgotten his time as Ross Barton, and his connection to his on-screen brother, Pete Barton, remains strong. Anthony Quinlan, who played Pete, was a guiding force during Mike’s early days in the soap. “I’ve got no Quinny backing me up,” Mike shared. “Quinny played Pete Barton, my older brother, and he’s just like my older brother in real life. We don’t see each other as much as we used to, but we’re still in touch.”
Anthony Quinlan’s portrayal of Pete gave fans some unforgettable moments, especially when he discovered Moira’s affair with Nate Robinson and became entangled in Cain Dingle’s wrath. Pete’s decision to leave the village in February 2020 left a gap in the Barton family dynamic. Reflecting on that, Mike said, “I’d love Quinny back. He showed me and Joe [Gill] the ropes. He’s such a soft, fun person to be around. I’d love it.”
The Mythical Nana Barton: A Long-Awaited Addition?
While a Pete Barton comeback would be exciting, Mike Parr also shared an intriguing idea about a character we’ve only ever heard about: Nana Barton. This unseen family matriarch has been a subject of speculation for years, and Mike’s dream is to see her brought to life by none other than TV legend Sue Johnston.
“There was this mythological Barton character called Nana Barton, and I would love it – this is not happening, but Sue Johnston, please come to Emmerdale,” Mike revealed. “It would be my dream to work with you after watching you for so many years on Brookside and The Royle Family.”
The idea of Nana Barton finally appearing in the Dales is enough to spark excitement. Would she be a loving grandmother or someone with a more complex past? Mike mused, “Whether she’s evil or lovely, I just think she’d fit perfectly into the Emmerdale world.”
Why Sue Johnston Is the Perfect Choice for Nana Barton
Sue Johnston’s legendary career makes her an ideal choice for such a pivotal role. From her emotional portrayal of Sheila Grant in Brookside to her comedic brilliance in The Royle Family, Sue has proven she can handle any role with depth and nuance. “I think she’s probably busy getting offers left, right, and center,” Mike admitted, “but if I could cast anybody to play a character that hasn’t been in the show – evil Nana Barton. Or maybe not evil – maybe she’s lovely!”
Given Sue’s history with iconic British dramas like Coronation Street and Downton Abbey, it’s easy to see why Mike thinks she’d be perfect for Emmerdale. A Nana Barton, played by Sue Johnston, could add fresh layers of drama to the Barton family and the wider village.
Emmerdale Spoilers: What Could Nana Barton’s Arrival Mean?
If Nana Barton were to join Emmerdale, it could be the start of a whole new chapter for the Bartons. Her arrival might reunite estranged family members or stir up trouble with long-buried secrets.
As viewers, we’re eager to see how such a character could impact the Dales. Would she become a beloved part of the village, or would her presence spark more chaos for the Barton clan? Either way, it’s an idea we’d love to see brought to life.
For now, these Emmerdale spoilers remain speculation, but with Mike Parr’s enthusiasm for the character and Sue Johnston’s unmatched talent, this could be a dream storyline worth pursuing. What do you think? Could Nana Barton finally become a reality? Let us know your thoughts, and stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily!
