ITV is implementing a significant restructuring of its flagship soap operas, Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Beginning in January 2026, both programs will transition to a uniform 30-minute episode format. These episodes will air back-to-back, creating a “soaps power hour” each weeknight. Emmerdale is slated for the 8 p.m. slot, with Coronation Street following at 8:30 p.m.
This represents a decrease in overall weekly broadcast time for both series. Currently, Coronation Street airs three hour-long episodes per week, while Emmerdale offers four 30-minute episodes plus one hour-long installment.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, directly addressed the reasoning behind the changes, stating, “Research insights also show us that soap viewers are increasingly looking to the soaps for their pacey storytelling.” He continued by saying that 30-minuet episodes improve meeting viewer expectations for the pace of the storyline.
The shorter format is intended to better align with audience expectations, delivering quicker story resolution. While acknowledging the restructuring’s impact on production personnel, Lygo emphasized ITV’s commitment to supporting its employees throughout the transition. Despite this assurance, an unnamed Coronation Street cast member voiced apprehension to the Daily Mail, labeling the reduction “devastating” and suggesting a feeling of marginalization.
Coronation Street and Emmerdale are ITV Studios productions for ITV.
