Great news for Emmerdale fans! Despite recent cost-cutting measures and cast departures across ITV’s popular soaps, an iconic figure is confirmed to be staying put. Chris Chittell, beloved for his portrayal of Eric Pollard, has reportedly signed a brand new contract, cementing his incredible 40-year legacy on the show.

Chittell, 77, is set to reach this momentous milestone in September 2026, making him the longest-serving character in Emmerdale‘s history. A source close to the production emphasized his enduring importance, stating, “Chris is Emmerdale, and there was no way he wasn’t going to make it to 40 years in the village.” This update brings a huge sigh of relief to fans who had expressed concern that Eric might be written out due to his ongoing Parkinson’s disease storyline. The heartbreaking plot has seen Eric’s condition slowly, and realistically, deteriorate, with Chittell himself previously stating he felt “privileged” to portray such a vital and “wickedly unkind” disease. The news hints that “big things are coming for Eric well into next year,” assuring viewers that his character will remain central to the Dales’ drama.

However, this exciting news for Eric Pollard comes amidst significant changes affecting both Emmerdale and its ITV rival, Coronation Street. Both long-running soaps are set to undergo major cuts, seeing their weekly number of episodes reduced from next year. This strategic shift is part of ITV’s broader effort to streamline its operations and adapt to evolving viewing habits. The new broadcast schedule will see Emmerdale air at 8:00 PM and Coronation Street at 8:30 PM, running Monday to Friday. This marks a departure from their current format, where both shows air six episodes per week, including double bills on certain days. The move follows a period of upheaval, with several cast members having already exited the shows last year.

In a further, and perhaps more exciting, shake-up for fans, ITV is embracing the digital age by making full episodes of both Emmerdale and Coronation Street available for streaming on YouTube. Starting tomorrow, viewers will be able to catch the latest episodes from 7:00 AM on the very same day they air on television. This means fans in the Yorkshire Dales and Weatherfield Cobbles can rejoice, gaining unprecedented access to their favourite soap opera drama at their convenience.

So, while the landscape of ITV’s flagship soaps is undoubtedly shifting with reduced episodes and strategic scheduling, the enduring presence of fan-favourite characters like Eric Pollard, coupled with new digital viewing options, suggests a resilient future for Emmerdale.