Big news for soap fans—two of Britain’s most iconic shows are coming together in a way we’ve never seen before. Coronation Street and Emmerdale will collide in a dramatic one-off episode next year, and while it might start as a celebration, it won’t end that way for everyone involved.
Two Worlds, One Huge Event
In January 2026, ITV will broadcast a one-off, hour-long special that unites the worlds of Weatherfield and the Dales for the first time. Yes, really – Corrie characters will appear on screen alongside those from Emmerdale in a crossover that has the potential to make soap history.
But don’t think that this will be entirely lighthearted fun. The episode will feature what ITV describes as “an ambitious stunt” with real-world repercussions. Though it’ll be a standalone story, it’s going to rock the boats in both programmes—with characters quitting, newcomers introducing, and repercussions that will rumble on long after the crossover has finished. After the drama unfolds, everyone will return to their own streets and villages—but life will not become normal again soon.
Coronation Street: Big Changes Coming for Viewers
Alongside the crossover, both soaps will be shifting to a new time slot in 2026. Emmerdale will air at 8pm, followed by Coronation Street at 8.30pm on ITV1 every evening. And if you’re an early bird, the episodes will still land on ITVX at 7am that day, so fans can watch at their convenience.
In a thrilling twist, fans will also have the opportunity to influence the special. ITV has revealed that viewers will be able to vote for which two characters, one from each series, they’d like to see appear together during the show.
Information on how to participate will be announced next month on the official Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok pages for both soaps. So, if there’s a couple you’ve always wanted to see, you may just get your wish. With the magnitude of this event and terms such as “everlasting consequences” being bandied about, it’s safe to say this won’t be a relaxed crossover. Twists, shocks, and even tragedy are on the cards. Whether you’re a Coronation Street fan, an Emmerdale fan, or vice versa, this crossover is going to shake things up—and deliver the drama we all crave.
