Emmerdale fans gobsmacked as child star undergoes major transformation

Emmerdale was inundated with shocked reactions from viewers after many took to social media to express their surprise at a major return. During Monday's (November 3) episode of the long-running ITV soap, fans were treated to the brief appearance of Jai Sharma's (played by Chris Bisson) son Archie (Kai Assi). This comes after the businessman was fretting about his fathering skills and whether he is a good dad to Archie. In a surprising storyline, the young character makes their on-screen debut after a year-long absence.

In the latest episode, the youngster confronted his dad at the depot and questioned him over his list of priorities. Archie complained that Jai always puts work before him, and it's difficult for Jai to argue, as he knows that his son is right. With a new romance plot developing with Kerry Wyatt (Laura Norton), she encourages Jai to make amends with his son, so they can spend more time together.

During the episode, Kerry insisted that there's no better time than the present and instructed the businessman to take a sick day to spend time with Archie.

With her bringing out a softer side of Jai, it's yet to be seen if viewers will see a more playful side to the usually stern professional.

However, with his personal life back in the forefront, it's likely Archie will make more appearances across the village, as he hasn't been seen since mid-way through the year.

As a result of the youngster not being featured in any of Jai's recent storylines, many were gobsmacked to see him make a long-awaited comeback.

Taking to X/Twitter, one questioned: "How did Archie age 7 years in a few months?"

Another viewer remarked: "Oh my god, it's missing Archie on #Emmerdale, think the last time we saw him he was like 8."

A third quizzed: "What happened to Archie, not only grew two feet, but also grew a moustache."

"Archie, like Jack Webster in #Corrie, looks closer to receiving a state pension than his old mum picking up child benefit for him," joked one fan.

Highlighting the lack of his storylines, a fifth added: "Archie, went upstairs a little boy comes down a tall grumpy teenager nothing new there then."

As another joked, "Oh Archie does still exist then. He's not been seen for about 5 years."

Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV and ITVX.