ITV has introduced a notable change that could affect some familiar faces in Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Network bosses recently decided to loosen a long-standing rule that previously restricted soap actors from stepping away for other work. The new decision comes just as one Emmerdale star prepares to take a temporary break from the village for a festive theatre production, giving fans another chance to see him perform on stage this Christmas.
ITV Relaxes Rules Allowing Soap Stars Temporary Breaks
ITV executives have re-evaluated their guidelines and will now allow certain actors from Coronation Street and Emmerdale to take a short break during the festive period to appear in pantomime productions.
The decision allows performers to temporarily step away from their roles while ensuring that the shows continue running smoothly. News of the change surfaced after confirmation that Emmerdale actor Bradley Riches will pause his role as Lewis Barton to take part in a seasonal theatre show.
He will portray Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook, appearing in the production between December and early January. An ITV spokesperson explained that the broadcaster had been considering the idea for some time.
The representative stated that the company agreed to release a few actors this year so they can participate in pantomime performances. ITV ensured that production teams received enough notice to plan schedules, allowing actors to step away for a limited period without disrupting the soaps.
Bradley Riches Takes Break After Emmerdale Milestone Role
Bradley Riches first gained recognition in 2022 after securing the role of James McEwan in the Netflix series Heartstopper. The appearance helped establish his presence in television before he joined Emmerdale in 2025.
His character Lewis Barton became significant in the show’s history as the first openly autistic and gay character in the soap. Lewis also entered the storyline as the half-brother of Ross Barton.
Bradley described joining the show as a dream opportunity when his casting was first announced. He called the experience a “real bucket list moment,” explaining that the role carried emotional meaning because Emmerdale had been his grandfather’s favourite programme. The actor said he believed his grandad would have been thrilled to see him become part of the long-running series.
Bradley will soon return to pantomime in the festive production at Sunderland Empire Theatre. The actor expressed excitement about the opportunity and said he felt absolutely delighted to perform in panto again, especially in the role of Peter Pan. He explained that the character remains one of the most magical and iconic parts in theatre. Bradley also said the excitement of performing for a live audience during Christmas makes the experience even more special. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Coronation Street spoilers.