Emmerdale viewers were left utterly stunned this week as one of the soap’s most notorious villains made an unexpected return to television—if only briefly. The shock appearance of Meena Jutla,

portrayed by actress Paige Sandhu, reignited fierce emotions among fans and co-stars alike, prompting urgent calls for her full-time comeback and sparking renewed debate

about the legacy of one of Emmerdale’s darkest characters. The surprise unfolded during The Big Quiz: Coronation Street v Emmerdale, the annual ITV special that pits

the two soap giants against each other in a nostalgic and light-hearted showdown. What began as harmless fun quickly turned into a moment of high drama when Emmerdale cast members were challenged to identify a former character using clues during a “blast from the past” round. When the name Meena Jutla was revealed, gasps echoed across living rooms nationwide.

Then came the real shock.

Moments after the team correctly identified her, Paige Sandhu herself walked into the studio, reuniting with her former colleagues and instantly stealing the spotlight. For many fans, it was the first time seeing the actress associated with Meena since the character’s explosive exit from the village in 2022—when Meena was finally arrested and sentenced to life in prison for a chilling string of murders.

A Villain Who Redefined Emmerdale

Meena Jutla’s reign of terror remains one of the most unsettling chapters in Emmerdale history. Charming, manipulative, and utterly remorseless, Meena murdered multiple villagers, leaving devastation in her wake. Her storylines were intense, psychologically dark, and often controversial—but undeniably gripping.

Although Meena appeared on the show for less than two years, her impact was seismic. She wasn’t just another soap villain; she was a cultural moment. Fans were horrified yet unable to look away as her mask slipped and her true nature was revealed. Each new crime escalated the tension, pushing Emmerdale into thriller territory and cementing Meena’s status as one of the soap’s most memorable antagonists.

Presenter Stephen Mulhern, clearly aware of Meena’s enduring legacy, addressed Paige during the show with a knowing smile, remarking that despite appearing for just 19 months, the character left an extraordinary impression. When asked what it was like to play Meena, Paige responded with warmth and enthusiasm.

“It was so fulfilling, so fun,” she said. “Working with these guys—it was amazing. That’s all I can say.”

Her words were simple, but the reaction they sparked was anything but.

Co-Stars Demand Meena’s Return

Among the most vocal supporters of Meena’s comeback was Lucy Pargeter, who plays Chas Dingle. Watching clips of Meena’s most infamous moments, Lucy couldn’t hide her admiration and excitement.

“She was absolutely amazing,” Lucy declared, before boldly adding that Meena needs to come back.

The comment struck a chord, especially when Stephen Mulhern playfully pushed the conversation further, asking Paige who Meena would kill first if she ever escaped prison and returned to the village. Paige didn’t hesitate, cheekily replying “Manpreet,” referencing Meena’s on-screen sister and one of the few characters who truly saw through her.

The exchange blurred the line between humour and genuine fan desire—and it was clear the appetite for Meena’s return remains strong.

Fans Flood Social Media with Pleas

As soon as the episode aired, social media erupted. X (formerly Twitter) was flooded with messages praising Paige Sandhu and calling for Meena’s return.

“Mina #Emmerdale #TheBigQuiz,” one fan posted simply, echoing the collective disbelief.

Another wrote, “I miss Mina. One of the best villains Emmerdale has ever had.”

Others were more direct. “Paige, come back. I have a list for Meena,” one viewer joked, while another declared Meena to be “soap villain royalty.”

The sentiment was overwhelming and unanimous: Meena Jutla may be behind bars, but she is far from forgotten.

Life After Emmerdale: Paige Sandhu’s Next Chapter

Since her departure from Emmerdale, Paige Sandhu has largely stepped away from the spotlight. The 33-year-old actress rarely posts on social media, but when she does, fans are treated to glimpses of her life beyond soap fame.

Over the past year, Paige has shared updates on her fitness journey, revealing a disciplined workout routine that has left her feeling stronger, more confident, and energised. Photos showcasing her toned physique and dedication to health have been met with admiration from her 63,000 followers, many of whom continue to associate her with Meena’s fierce intensity.

However, Paige’s ambitions extend far beyond the village of Emmerdale.

A Powerful New Role on the Horizon

In a significant career move, Paige has secured a leading role in the upcoming feature film Lioness, a historical drama that marks a dramatic departure from her soap persona. In the film, she portrays Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, Queen Victoria’s goddaughter and a remarkable yet often overlooked historical figure.

Princess Sophia was not only royalty—she was the granddaughter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and a fierce activist who played a pivotal role in the UK’s suffragette movement. The film is inspired by the extensive research of historian Peter Bance, whose work has brought Sophia’s extraordinary life back into public consciousness.

Announcing the role on Instagram, Paige shared her excitement, writing: “I’m so excited for the world to learn about Sophia, her family, and the life she lived.”

The role signals a bold new chapter for the actress, showcasing her range and commitment to telling powerful stories.

Will Meena Ever Return?

Despite Paige’s growing success beyond Emmerdale, the question lingers: could Meena Jutla ever return?

Soap fans know better than to say never. In a genre where deaths are reversed, villains are redeemed, and prison doors mysteriously open, Meena’s fate feels anything but sealed. Her brief television return has reignited interest, reminded viewers of her impact, and proven that the character still holds immense power.

For now, Meena remains behind bars—but the echoes of her reign continue to haunt Emmerdale. And if the reaction from fans and co-stars is anything to go by, the village may not have seen the last of her yet.