Emmerdale stars left reeling over the timing of Patsy Kensit’s return as cash-strapped show suffers second cast bloodbath

Emmerdale stars have reportedly been left reeling over the timing of Patsy Kensit’s return amid the show’s second cast bloodbath.The actress, 58, starred as Sadie in the long-running ITV series for two years from 2004 to 2006 – and is returning as part of an ‘explosive’ new storyline that is ‘guaranteed to shock’.But behind-the-scenes, some of the cast are quietly fuming that cash-strapped ITV have forked out to get her back at the same time they have axed cast members.ITV has been hit by widespread cuts in recent months, as a result of several factors including changing viewer habits, which have resulted in a shift towards streaming services.Nick Miles, 63, who is better known to fans as Jimmy King, is among the long-standing cast members who has been axed from the show.While the cast are ‘excited’ to welcome Patsy back, the timing of her comeback has left a number of the show’s ‘biggest cast members smarting’. Emmerdale stars have reportedly been left reeling over the timing of Patsy Kensit’s return amid the show’s second cast bloodbathA source told The Sun: ‘Many of the core cast are feeling really put out by some of the latest decisions on the show.’They have been left devastated to learn that a number of their colleagues have been chosen to leave the programme due to the ongoing money woes at the show.’But they are now finding it hard to stomach that ITV have found the cash to bring back Patsy at the same time as offloading six other stars.’The cast have discussed between themselves how it seems unfair how some of the show’s loyal long-standing stars have been cast aside in favour of bringing Patsy back after 20 years.’The Daily Mail has contacted ITV for a comment. Formerly married to Jimmy King (Nick Miles), Patsy’s devious and ruthless character was at the centre of multiple dramatic storylines.In addition to Jimmy, Sadie was also later romantically involved with his brother Matthew (Matt Healy). Viewers will remember Sadie had affairs with Robert Sugden (then Karl Davies) and also Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley).Cain memorably double-crossed her and stole ransom money in a dramatic helicopter exit in September 2006. During her time in the soap, Sadie was married to Jimmy King (pictured right) until they split in 2005After leaving Emmerdale, Patsy played Faye Morton in Holby City from 2007 to 2010, as well as Emma Harding in EastEnders in 2023.Sadie has plenty of connections currently in the village – with ex-husband Jimmy, as well as ex-lovers Robert and Cain all living there. Laura Shaw, Emmerdale producer, said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Patsy Kensit back to the cast and crucially to see the iconic Sadie King storm back into the village. Her return will be explosive and guaranteed to shock. ‘Sadie’s seductive demeanour, combined with her utterly ruthless nature, are set to deliver a spectacular and highly dramatic touch of class to the Yorkshire Dales.’Patsy added: ‘I am really excited to return to Emmerdale. I treasure the years I was here before. Sadie King is a character that I really loved playing. ‘The cast and crew are absolutely brilliant and I am so grateful for the chance to return to the show, it’s absolutely amazing.’Speaking to Metro last year, Patsy addressed the possibility of returning to either Emmerdale or EastEnders.She said at the time: ‘I had an amazing time on Emmerdale but I loved EastEnders also very very much.’I would give anything to get back on that show because it was a joy, as was Emmerdale but if I could put a wish out, it would be to go back to Walford.’