Emmerdale fans confused over 'pointless' Maya baby twist as return ruled out

Emmerdale paedophile Maya Stepney made a surprise return to the ITV soap on Tuesday night, as she was released from prison.

But the biggest shock was still to come, as her character was confirmed to be pregnant, with a huge baby bump shown on screen.

Maya was arrested after her crimes were exposed - months on from when she began grooming teenage stepson Jacob Gallagher, manipulating him into believing they were in love.

Jacob vowed to wait for her, and as she prepared to be released in the latest visit to the Dales he again tried to reunite with her, unaware about the pregnancy,

It's not yet confirmed if Jacob or his father David, Maya's ex, is the dad.

Maya Stepney is not returning to Emmerdale after the baby twist (ITV)

But it's since been confirmed that Maya is not currently returning to the ITV soap despite the twist.

A source for the show told Metro.co.uk: "There are no current plans for Maya to return."

On hearing the news, viewers took to Twitter not entirely sure what the point was in airing the twist if it wasn't the start of a new plot.

While many praised the twist but were glad to know Maya wouldn't be back, others said it wasn't necessary.

Emmerdale fans learned Maya was pregnant after seeing her baby bump (ITV)

One viewer commented: "They could have brought her back down the line with a baby and people would have bought it. To put her back in now if they have no intention of carrying it on is weird to me. Just want her to face proper justice!"

Another agreed, sharing a GIF which read: "So, what exactly is the point of this?"

Maya was released from prison during Tuesday's episode - and schoolboy Jacob Gallagher frantically tried to contact his abuser when he discovered she was free.

Jacob wanted to reunite with Maya but she left for good (ITV)

The sick teacher answered her phone at the prison gates but refused to talk to Jacob as he confessed his love for her.

Jacob told Maya that he wanted to be with her like they "both promised".

But she deleted his number from her phone - leaving the teen unaware he may be about to become a dad.

While furious David vowed to call the police if Jacob went to go and see Maya again - even if it ruined their relationship forever.

Emmerdale continues weeknights at 7pm on ITV, with an extra episode at 8pm on Thursdays.