Emmerdale will be on aplenty over Christmas and New Year, with some big twists and turns set to rock the ITV soap – here’s the full schedule guide and spoiler round-up
It’s going to be a huge Christmas and New Year on Emmerdale this year, with the Christmas Day episode teased to be action-packed.
Spoilers have teased major drama ahead, while so much is being kept under wraps until it airs. But what time will it air on Christmas Day this year, and when else is the show on over Christmas?
What can we expect from the big episodes this time around? Several key characters take centre stage in the festive period, with danger and horror ahead, as well as family drama and a happy reunion.
There could be more than one return this Christmas, while fans will have to wait and see what exactly goes down. It’s even been teased not everyone will make it into 2025, but who knows!
It’s going to be a huge Christmas and New Year on Emmerdale this year(
Image: ITV)
What time is Emmerdale on Christmas Day? What happens?
This Christmas Day, Emmerdale will be on at the earlier time of 6:30pm on ITV1. It will be a 30-minute episode, while it’s thought, not yet confirmed, the episode will also drop on ITVX that morning as usual.
There’s some big moments this Christmas Day, as teenager April Windsor goes missing leaving her family in turmoil. But what has happened to her?
Elsewhere, Ruby Miligan continues to hide her devastating secret, the abuse the suffered as a teenager at the hands of her father Anthony Fox. Things reach breaking point, and she’s soon threatening him with a knife.
Also this Christmas there’s happy scenes with a return confirmed. After Belle Dingle’s harrowing domestic abuse ordeal this year, she is finally reunited with her beloved pooch Piper in a Christmas miracle.
There is also tipped to be another big return causing shockwaves, while all is very much TBC at the moment. What we do know is that someone is targeting Kim Tate, and they could be on their way to the village this Christmas.
A flashforward will air on Christmas Day, teasing a possible death and a dramatic struggle at Home Farm. With Kim and partner Will Taylor nowhere to be seen, could we be waving goodbye to a character?
When else is Emmerdale on over Christmas and New Year?
The entire festive schedule for the ITV soap is as follows:
Monday December 23 – 7:30pm
Tuesday December 24 (Christmas Eve) – 7pm
Wednesday 25 December (Christmas Day) – 6:30pm
Thursday 26 December (Boxing Day) – 6:30pm (hour-long episode)
Princess Beatrice to spend Christmas at Sandringham with King after being warned against travel
Princess Beatrice, 36, and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, 41, will be joining the Royal Family for Christmas at Sandringham this year after she was given new medical advice about her pregnancy
Princess Beatrice will be joining the Royal Family at Sandringham this Christmas in a last-minute change of plans.
Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are expecting their second child due in early spring, and were initially planning on spending the festive period overseas with the princess’ in-laws. But the 36-year-old, who is in her third trimester, has recently been given medical advice instructing her not to travel long distances – and so is opting for the huge royal gathering in Norfolk on December 25 instead.
The forthcoming royal baby will be a little brother or sister for the couple’s three-year-old daughter Sienna, and Mr Mapelli Mozzi’s son Wolfie, both of whom will also be at Sandringham this year.
King Charles is hosting a bumper Christmas Day celebration at Sandringham this year with as many as 45 guests invited(
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
A large number of royals will be guests of King Charles and Queen Camilla on Christmas Day this year, with Prince William recently revealing that 45 people will be “all in one room” at the royal residence. However, Beatrice’s father Prince Andrew will not be among them, as he is staying away amid the ongoing controversy surrounding his links to an alleged Chinese spy. He will instead spend Christmas with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. Beatrice’s sister Princess Eugenie and her family are planning on spending Christmas with her in-laws.Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expected to remain in California with their two children and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland. They are not thought to have been invited to Sandringham, having last spent Christmas with the Royal Family in 2018.One new face at the gathering this year will be King Charles’ stepson, Tom Parker Bowles, who is set to attend for the very first time. Food critic Tom, 50, revealed in a recent interview with the Telegraph that mum Queen Camilla personally requested his presence at the royal gathering this year. He shared: “My mum said, ‘I’d love you to come, I haven’t had Christmas with you for a long time.’”
According to a top royal expert, this year’s festive celebration will focus on providing activities for the growing number of younger royals, as well as showing support for the King and Kate, Princess of Wales after their health struggles this year. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: “After the year they’ve had, I’m sure it’s going to mean the world to the King and Queen to have as many of their family as possible joining them for Christmas. And, as the number of youngsters increases, so the celebrations become more and more child oriented. Which is exactly what Christmas should be all about.”
Joe Sugg has revealed the jaw-dropping surprise he prepared for his girlfriend, Dianne Buswell, after comedian Chris McCausland was crowned the winner of Strictly Come Dancing last night.
The 33-year-old YouTuber and actor took to social media to congratulate Chris and Dianne who lifted the Glitterball on the popular BBC TV show. Joe said their win showed “you can achieve anything the doubters say you can’t and more.”
The proud boyfriend posted a photo of him with Chris and Dianne as they all smiled after the live show. He also shared two photos showing the surprise he prepared for the professional dancer.
Joe Sugg with Dianne Buswell and Chris McCausland as they were crowned Strictly winners(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
Joe decorated their home with white and gold balloons and a banner reading “2024 winner” in between two flights of stairs. One of the images he shared showed Dianne looking ecstatic while lifting the Glitterball, while the other showed the couple embracing looking at the home decorations.
Accompanying the post, Joe wrote: “There are no words to describe how proud I am of you both @diannebuswell @chrismccauslandcomedy, Last night was an absolute movie. You made us laugh, you made us cry and you proved to the world that you are good enough and you can achieve anything the doubters say you can’t and more.
Joe prepared a surprise for Dianne(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
He shared the images on Instagram(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
“Chris I thank you for making this year so special for Dianne and I could not be happier that you’re the partner she finally lifted the glitterball with. Dot, it’s been a long winding, road full of ups and downs for 7 years but you have shown pure determination & dedication and you finally got there in the best way possible and everyone has been able to see how amazing you are and what an incredible teacher you are this year. You are both inspirations and have the nations hearts. on behalf of everyone, thank you.”
Strictly pro Dianne commented the post, writing: “Thank you my angel for always supporting me and being by my side I love you.” In the Strictly finale, Chris and Dianne competed against Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, JB Gill and Lauren Oakley and Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec.
As the result came in, Chris and Dianne were in complete shock and quickly hugged it out. Left in tears, they were applauded by the judges, crowd and their co-stars as hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman congratulated them. Their fellow finalists rallied around them and embraced them, as Chris wiped back tears. Dianne was shaking, as the hosts asked Chris about his win.
Tess asked how it felt, with a speechless Chris saying: “It’s astonishing, I don’t know what to say. I thought I would go out in the first week or two. We have lasted and lasted and she has got so much out of me, she deserves this so much.”
He added: “This is for her and for everyone out there who thought… who got told they couldn’t do something or thought they couldn’t do it. With opportunity and support and determination anything can happen.” A teary Dianne told him it was “for both of them”, screaming: “We did it!”
Chris and Dianne celebrating the win(
Image: PA)Comedian Chris has inspired the whole nation with his performances, as the show’s first ever blind contestant. The way he has taken on the show and progressed his dancing skills, thanks to pro dancer Dianne’s help, has inspired viewers with them constantly heaping praise on the finalist.
In recent weeks the star has shared the obstacles he has faced throughout the series, with Dianne often explaining to the hosts, judges and viewers what they are up against in training. In a moving moment on Saturday night, judge Craig Revel Horwood revealed he finally realised just how much Chris and Dianne had to put into every training session in order to deliver such epic performances, as he visited the training room.
With Chris’ sight loss, Craig was able to see how Dianne trained him to dance and to follow the steps to ensure each routine was done correctly. The judge even wrote Chris a poem, after his newfound appreciation for Chris’ skill having seen how much work it takes to learn each step, direction, and to know what is going on around him.
Chris had previously confessed he put off Strictly for so long as he was unsure he could do it, and he also didn’t want to encourage negative comments. He decided to challenge himself and has gone on to win the entire show, something he wasn’t expecting.
EXCLUSIVE: Former Strictly dancer Giovanni Pernice is gearing up for his highly anticipated return to UK telly after the BBC completed their investigation.
Giovanni Pernice is set to return to our screens in the new year (Image: Getty)
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice is set to make his long-awaited return to UK television after being at the centre of a BBC probe last year.
Express.co.uk can exclusively reveal that the 34-year-old Sicilian dancer will appear in the upcoming season of Channel 4’s Celebrity Hunted on Sunday, January 5.
The show, filmed back in 2022, had been shelved following explosive allegations of bullying made by his Strictly dance partner Amanda Abbington. But two years on, TV bosses have had a change of heart and have reportedly decided to air the reality show in the new year.
Confirming the exciting news on Instagram earlier this year, Giovanni declared: “I’m back baby!” A source told us: “A reelase date has finally been chosen for the show after a lot fo chaos behind-the-scenes. The contestants are are thrilled too because they’ve been waiting for news for almost two years.”
Executives had reportedly considered cutting Giovanni’s scenes entirely, but the decision was made to keep him in the programme following the results of the BBC investigation.
Amanda accused Gio of “bullying” on the BBC dance competition (Image: Channel 4)
A TV source previously stated: “It was absolutely right to shelve Hunted while the BBC took the time to unravel the claims against Giovanni. It was filmed in 2022 and due to screen last year, but will now air in early 2025.”
The BBC concluded its investigation last month, clearing Giovanni of ten out of 16 allegations, including claims of violence, physical abuse, threats, and intimidation. However, six allegations were upheld.
The report found instances of “inappropriate behaviour of sexual banter in the workplace,” as well as “belittling, dismissive, and insulting language.”
Despite this, Giovanni’s focus remains on moving forward. A source close to him told The Sun: “Gio is pleased he was cleared of the serious allegations and is optimistic about the future.”
Giovanni was cleared of ten out of 16 allegations (Image: PA)
The allegations rocked his professional reputation, with Abbington reportedly receiving an apology from BBC bosses after their findings.
Meanwhile, Giovanni’s former Strictly co-star, Radio 2’s Richie Anderson, kept quiet during the investigation and even unfollowed him on social media amid rumours of a falling out.
In Celebrity Hunted, Giovanni and Anderson teamed up for the thrilling Channel 4 reality show after competing on the BBC dance competition in 2021.
They will joined the star-studded lineup featuring Loose Women star Denise Welch and her husband Lincoln Townley, EastEnders icon Danielle Harold, and Coronation Street actress Kimberley Hart-Simpson.
While Celebrity Hunted will finally air, the show’s civilian edition has been left in limbo, with no new series expected in the near future.
According to Broadcast: “The show has fallen out of the recommissioning cycle, which means it is impossible for the civilian edition to record another series this year.”
Outside of the controversy, Giovanni’s career is thriving. He recently announced a theatre tour with Strictly judge Anton Du Beke for next summer and is promoting his own headline tour, The Last Dance, running from January to May.
Additionally, he continues to shine on the Italian version of Strictly, recently making history with five perfect tens.
STRICTLY fans have claimed Janette Manrara snubbed Tasha Ghouri in her tribute post to Aljaž Škorjanec after they made the BBC final.
It Takes Two host Janette sparked a debate after failing to mention Tasha in a heartfelt message to her husband Aljaž.
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It Takes Two host and former Strictly pro Janette Manrara paid tribute to her husband after he returned as a pro
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He danced with Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri and they made the final – though Janette failed to congratulate Tasha in a recent postCredit: PA
Janette, who quit the show in 2021 to become the host of Strictly spin-off It Takes Two, shared an emotional Instagram post praising Aljaz for his “incredible” comeback series on Strictly Come Dancing.
However, fans were quick to notice that Aljaz’s celebrity dance partner, Tasha, was notably absent from the gushing message, leading to speculation of tension behind the scenes.
In the post, the mum wrote: “I have no words to express how IMMENSELY proud I am of @aljazskorjanec this series.
“What a comeback year
“You worked incredibly hard, spent time away from home and our little family, pushed through missing Lyra as much as you did, and did it all with class and grace making your wife and daughter and yourself very proud.
“You were AMAZING last night and every single week. I am so very happy for you, as are your family, friends and team. Now…. Let’s go home and cuddle.
“I’ve missed you, and I love you.”
While Janette’s words were filled with love and admiration for Aljaz, there was no mention of Tasha, who Aljaz partnered with throughout the season.
Fans quickly took to the comments, questioning if it was a snub.
One follower wrote: “It may have been nice for you to mention tasha in this post too?
However, another replied: “Should she? She is talking about how she has missed her husband Tasha doesn’t have to be mentioned.”
One more fan moaned: “It’s like you have watched alijaz & tasha like a hawk….now this post not even a mention for tasha just you you you”
A third wrote: “Tasha and aljaz were my winners however but of a snub towards tasha”.
It comes after Tasha’s incredible performance in Saturday’s final saw her become the show’s highest scoring celebrity ever — taking the title from singer Ashley Roberts.
She came second to blind comedian Chris McCausland and his pro partner Dianne Buswell.
The Love Island star, who was born deaf and wears a cochlear implant, has cherished being able to represent her community on the BBC dance show.
She described getting to the final as “magical” and praised Aljaž for getting her so far.
She wrote alongside a post on social media: “Strictly after 13 weeks thank you, when I say doing this show has just been so magical I can’t even put it into words & surprising me with my brother flying in from Australia!!!
“This was extra special having him there watching the final, thank you so much for making this happen.
“Alijaz you made magical beautiful dances that’ll be remembered for a long time from our American smooth, waltz, show dance and many more.
“Everyday we laughed & smiled, you are what strictly is about – your passion and positivity radiates from within on this show. I can’t thank you enough from the bottom of my heart, you made my experience so magical. And we made history!!! What a moment.
“I have to give a huge shoutout to @arduinobertoncello for our show dance, thank you so much for making the show dance EPIC! you really helped me bring out my inner ginger & doing this style I LOVED IT!!!”
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Aljaz with fellow Strictly star wife Janette ManraraCredit: Getty – Contributor
Emmerdale have always been brilliant at shining a light on their more mature stars, better known as the golden oldies.
They may not offer the sex appeal and excitement of their younger generations, but they’ve got a wealth of life experience. There’s not much these ladies and gents haven’t seen or done. Just look at Eric Pollard – he’s now the soap’s longest serving character, and there’s never been a dull moment when he’s on screen.
To celebrate their greatness, let’s take a look at 11 of Emmerdale’s greatest OAP icons, both past and present… Annie Sugden was the original Emmerdale matriarch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
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Emmerdale golden oldies: Annie Sugden
Annie was the OG matriarch of Emmerdale and one of the soap’s most beloved icons. Played by the late Sheila Mercier, Annie remains the longest-serving female character in Emmerdale’s 52 year history.
Introduced in the very first episode of Emmerdale, Annie was the widow of farmer Jacob Sugden. Not much was known about Jacob, but viewers learnt he’d been an alcoholic and neglectful husband, often leaving Annie to look after their farm and children.
Annie was a mum of three to sons Jack and Joe, and daughter Peggy. She doted on her brood, but tragically, all of her children died before she did.
There were other traumas in Annie’s life. She had to contend with constant financial woes, and she also battled an addiction to painkillers. In 1993, she was seriously injured when a plane hit the village, which was known back then as Beckindale. Annie was left in a coma for three months, and woke up to discover her second husband, Leonard Kempinski had been killed in the tragedy.
After an incredible 32 years, Annie decided to swap the Yorkshire Dales for a new life in sunny Spain. A year after her sad departure it was revealed Annie had married for a third time, to former Woolpack landlord Amos Brearly. More on him later.
Over the next decade and a half fans were treated to the occasional visit from Annie. She was last seen on screen in February 2009 when she returned to lay her eldest, Jack to rest.
Annie lived out the rest of her years in Spain, and passed away in August 2020 at the ripe old age of 100. Seth was one of Emmerdale’s all time greats (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Seth Armstrong
Fans always had a soft spot for Seth. The character, whose real name was Archibald Seth, was played by actor Stan Richards from 1978 to 2004.
A loveable rogue, Seth was always in and out of trouble. His hobby was poaching, and after years of illegally shooting birds on Home Farm land he was made gamekeeper there in 1980. In later years he formed an unlikely friendship with lady of the manor, Kim Tate.
Seth was widowed in 1993 when his wife Meg passed away, and months later his house was destroyed in the plane crash. But his fortunes changed in 1994 when Seth was reunited with his teenage sweetheart, Betty. The couple fell back in love, but Seth’s appetite for mischief often got him in trouble with his other half.
Who remembers when the cheeky chap set up a webcam, which broadcast Betty’s daily movements to everyone on the net, just to get a free breakfast? Betty chucked Seth when she found out what he’d done, but he found a way to win her back.
Seth said farewell to the village in 2003 when he moved away to Australia. He passed away off-screen, following Stan Richards death from emphysema in February 2005.
Carrying out his final wishes, Seth’s body was illegally buried in the woods, with only his nearest and dearest knowing the truth. Betty was a force of nature (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Betty Eagleton
Busybody Betty always knew what everyone in the village was up to. She loved nothing better than a good old gossip over a glass of her favourite tipple, sherry. But despite her nosiness, Betty was an adored member of the community and a friend to all.
She arrived back in 1994, and embarked on a romance with her former love Seth. Both had been widowed and made plans of their own to marry, but decided at the last minute they were too old to be exchanging vows.
Betty definitely wore the trousers in their relationship. She was the first to call Seth out if he’d been up to no good (which was often!). There were plenty of comedy moments between the couple, which actress Paula Tilbrok played to perfection. Seth might have been useless at times, but we’ll always remember how he stepped in to protect Betty when her nasty ex Reggie Wilkie tried to cause trouble.
His death in 2005 left Betty heartbroken, but she found the courage to carry on.
In 2015, Paula Tilbrook announced she was retiring after 21 years of playing Betty. The actress described her decision to leave Emmerdale as ‘both the saddest and happiest day of my life’. The character moved to Australia with her new beau, Reuben Archibald, who hilariously was a dead ringer for her beloved Seth.
Betty’s last on-screen appearance was on Christmas Day 2015. Four years later, Paula passed away aged 89. Amos ran the Woolpack for 43 years (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Amos Brearly
Emmerdale original Amos Brearly was the pipe-smoking landlord of The Woolpack and famed for his bushy sideburns.
His name had been above the village boozer since 1948, which means he’d already been landlord for 24 years when viewers were first introduced to him. Amos was a terrible gossip – you couldn’t tell him a secret unless you wanted half of the village to know. He could also be rather moody and the sight of blood would make him faint.
His greatest friend was Henry Wilks, who joined forces with him in 1973 to run the Woolie together. Although they frequently clashed, Amos and Henry created an iconic partnership which they managed to keep going for 19 years.
Amos had his brushes with death – he was the victim of an armed robbery and survived a stroke, which ended his days as landlord.
Amos only had eyes for one woman in Emmerdale – Annie Sugden. He proposed to her in 1972, but she turned him down. They remained friends, and when Amos asked Annie to marry him again in 1995, she accepted.
He left Emmerdale that year and went to live with Annie in Spain. The couple went on to marry, but what became of Amos, who knows! Indomitable Eric is Emmerdale’s longest-serving character (Credit: ITV)
Eric Pollard
There’s only one Eric Pollard. And where would Emmerdale be without him?
A permanent fixture on our screens since 1986, Eric has been entertaining audiences for 38 years. But did you know he was only meant to stay for 12 episodes? Actor Chris Chittell’s portrayal of scheming Pollard was such a hit with viewers it was decided to keep him on full time. And we’re grateful they did.
Eric has certainly lived a colourful life. He’s been engaged in several business (mainly illegal) ventures, made plenty of enemies, and had lots of brides.
To date, there have been five Mrs Pollards. These include his second wife Elizabeth Jefferies, who perished in the plane crash of 1993. Eric committed bigamy by marrying Elizabeth, as he was still wedded to his first missus, Eileen.
Wifey number three was Filipino student Dee de la Cruz, then Eric said I do with social climber Gloria Weaver. The true love of Eric’s life was his fifth wife, the indomitable Valerie ‘Val’ Pollard, who left the biggest void in his life when she died in 2015.
Although initially characterised as a ruthless villain, Eric has mellowed over the years and shown us moments of tremendous vulnerability. Never more so than with his battle against Parkinson’s disease.
Eric was diagnosed with the incurable condition in 2023, and has struggled to accept his ailing health. But there’s still life in the old boy yet! However not another wedding after Brenda recently ended their relationship following his betrayal investing all their cash. If looks could kill, Edna! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Edna Birch
Edna had the sharpest tongue in the village, but underneath her stern exterior was a wise mind and kind heart. She was a friend to many, particularly Betty Eagleton, Pearl Ladderbanks and Sandy Thomas.
She was introduced to audiences in 2000, although Edna had already lived in Emmerdale for years. Characterised as a proud and strong-willed lady, Edna could be incredibly judgey and rarely held back in voicing her opinions.
She had two great loves in her life. First up was the church. As a devout Christian and committed member of the St Mary’s congregation, Edna’s faith was central to all she did. And of course, there were her adorable canine companions, Batley and Tootsie.
Edna’s backstory was explored in 2014 with the introduction of Lawrence White. It was revealed Lawrence had had a gay love affair with Edna’s husband Harold. Edna had reported Lawrence to the police and he was jailed, with Edna believing he died behind bars.
Tragically Edna’s time in Emmerdale was cut short when actress Shirley Stelfox (who also played the original Rose in Keeping Up Appearances) passed away in December 2015 following a short battle with cancer. The character was killed off the following year. Sandy was a real sweetheart (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Sandy Thomas
Former Navy officer Sandy brought his own brand of eccentricity to village life and certainly livened things up at the vicarage.
The dad of local reverend Ashley Thomas, Sandy and his son had a complicated past. They had fallen out years previously after Sandy helped his wife Dorothy end her life, something which went against Ashley’s Christian beliefs.
Sandy gave us so many LOL moments, even if his family found his innuendo-laden jokes rather embarrassing.
But it was no laughing matter when Sandy found himself on the receiving end of Ashley’s temper. Ashley was in a dark place after his marriage split from Laurel and took his hurt out on Sandy. For months, viewers watched on in horror and as the defenseless pensioner was subjected to terrible physical and mental abuse. Ashley was eventually brought to justice and Sandy forgave him for what he’d done.
Sandy continued to live at Mulberry cottage after Ashley’s death in 2017. He bid us all farewell the following year, opting to join his old mate Betty down under. In 2020, news reached the village that Sandy had died peacefully in his sleep. Pearl always looked glam (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl Ladderbanks
Flirty, feisty and forthright – that was our Pearl. She provided the perfect sparring partner for uptight Edna. Pearl also brought a touch of glamour to the Dales with her striking outfits and immaculate hair and make up.
She came to the Dales in 2003 and immediately caught the eye of fellow OAP Len Reynolds. Pearl and Len became a couple and went on to marry. However, their relationship was put to the test when Pearl’s rapist son Frank came to stay in the village. The couple were ostracised by the locals for housing an abuser, and even considered moving away.
Wherever Pearl went trouble often followed. She got conned into investing in a get-rich-quick scheme and got into debt after borrowing money from Eric Pollard. Pearl briefly fled the village, but was found in Leeds working under the alias of Irene.
After Len’s death, Pearl faced problems at work when Vanessa Woodfield tried to push her out of the vets, saying she too old to be their receptionist. But it was Paddy Kirk who gave Pearl her marching orders after discovering she’d been stealing money from the surgery to fund her gambling addiction. Pearl foolishly tried to fake having Alzheimer’s to excuse her behaviour, but was found out.
In 2019, actress Meg Johnson took an extended break, with Pearl’s absence explained that she’d gone on a caravan holiday. The character was last seen on screen in March 2020, and in 2024 news reached the village that Pearl had passed away. Poor Rishi met a sad end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rishi Sharma
We always felt a little sorry for lovely Rishi, particularly with a son as nasty and manipulative as Jai.
Big-hearted Rishi was forever trying to clean up whatever mess Jai had made – whether it was within his personal life or at work. And daughter Priya gave the poor man many sleepless nights too.
In 2018, Rishi finally found some happiness of his own when he began dating local doctor Manpreet Sharma. Both Jai and Priya suspected Manpreet was taking their father for a ride and tried to warn him off her. But Rishi was besotted. The pair went on to marry in Las Vegas in 2019.
When the Sharma clan were hit by a financial crisis, Rishi ended up making a deal with the devil – also known as Kim Tate. A fire broke out at the family’s factory and Rishi was forced to give up his share in the business. More bad times followed when Manpreet called time on the marriage and told Rishi she no longer loved him.
Then in 2023 came the biggest shock of all when Rishi admitted to Jai he wasn’t his biological dad. It turned out Rishi’s younger brother Amit was actually the real father.
Weeks later, on the day of Jai’s wedding to Laurel Thomas, Rishi was discovered dead at the bottom of the stairs of Holdgate. It was later revealed Rishi had fallen to his death while rowing with Amit. Rodney modelling one of his iconic bolo ties (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Rodney Blackstock
In his life before Emmerdale, Rodney worked on a fairground, and even tried his hand at being an author. The biggest vices in his life were women and wine. Not much has changed then.
Rodney was introduced in 2000 as the estranged father of Bernice. He’d walked out on his daughter when she was just five years old and left Diane to raise her alone. It later transpired he’d had an affair with Diane’s sister Val Lambert, the product of which was a son, Paul. He went on to have Nicola with his second wife Maureen.
Rodney has always had an eye for the ladies. This randy old goat has so many notches on his bedpost we’re surprised there’s one left. Rodders’ conquests include Louise Appleton, Steph Stokes and Kelly Windsor. He even tried his hand at being a male escort.
His long-standing bromance with Eric Pollard has also delighted fans over the years. Bear totally pulls off that leopard gown (Credit: ITV)
Bear Wolf
His name might sound intimidating, but lovely Bear is a total softie.
The former wrestler was introduced into the soap as Paddy Kirk’s long-lost father. Back in the 1960s, Bear had an affair with Barbara Kirk, which resulted in her giving birth to a son, Paddy. Barbara raised Paddy to believe her husband was his real father.
The truth was revealed in January 2019 when Paddy found a letter that Bear had written his mum around the time she fell pregnant. A DNA test confirmed Bear was Paddy’s father, and the pair had an emotional reunion in Belfast.
Shortly after Bear arrived in Emmerdale and decided to stay there to make a fresh start with his son. He originally moved into The Woolpack, but now lives in Tenant House.
Over the past five years Bear has proved to be a rock for Paddy. He supported him through his split from Chas, helped him overcome a battle against depression, and has been a lovely grandad to little Eve. He was also an amazing friend to Faith Dingle during the last weeks of his life. All Bear needs now is the love of a good woman.
Fans of Gavin & Stacey were overjoyed earlier this year with the announcement that the much-loved comedy will return for a Christmas special this year.
However, the excitement was tinged with bittersweet news: this episode will also be the last.
James Corden, who co-writes and stars in the show alongside Ruth Jones, shared the news on social media.
It’s been five years since the sitcom last aired, leaving viewers on a cliffhanger when Nessa proposed to Smithy, only for the credits to roll before he could answer.
As we wait until Christmas Day to find out what happens next, a trailer and first plot details have been revealed.
A synopsis shares: “It’s 5 years since we left Nessa down on one knee declaring her love for Smithy and asking him to marry her. And a lot has happened in those 5 years.
“In Barry, Bryn’s packing the Picasso in readiness for a trip to Essex; Stacey and Gavin are looking for new ways to spice up their seventeen-year marriage and Gwen is behaving most strangely. Nessa’s started a new business venture and Neil the Baby’s about to begin an apprenticeship with his dad.
“Over in Billericay Pam is stressing out at the prospect of playing hostess, not helped by a newly retired Mick practicing his golf swings in the living room and there have been more ups and downs in Pete and Dawn’s relationship.”
“Join us on the journey to Barry and Billericay as we catch up with the Shipmans and the Wests for the very last time and maybe find out what exactly did happen on that fishing trip.”
The special will see Matthew Horne (Gavin), Joanna Page (Stacey), Ruth Jones (Nessa), James Corden (Smithy), Melanie Walter (Gwen), Larry Lamb (Mick), Alison Steadman (Pam) and Rob Brydon (Bryn) all reprise their roles.
Meanwhile it’s been revealed that Sheridan Smith is set to return for the last episode.
She’ll reprise her role of Ruth ‘Rudi’ Smith, sister of Smithy.
Alongside the final episode, an additional one-off documentary will also air.
We certainly can’t wait to see what unfolds in the final episode!
Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell looked in great spirits as they led the Strictly stars leaving a London hotel on Saturday morning.
The comedian, 47, who is the show’s first blind contestant, put on an animated display punching the air and whooping as he donned a light brown jumper and grey jogging bottoms.
Chris carried a black rucksack over one shoulder and completed the look with some white trainers with colourful stripes.
Meanwhile his pro partner Dianne, 35, beamed as she linked arms with Chris and threw her free arm into the air.
Dianne was bundled in layers making sure to wrap up warm against the early morning chill.
She wore a green puffer coat with a faux fur trim and layered a jumper underneath with dark black leggings.
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Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell looked in great spirits as they led the Strictly stars leaving a London hotel on Saturday morning
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The comedian, 47, put on an animated display punching the air and cosied up to professional dancers Dianne Buswell and Lauren Oakley
The pair were joined by Strictly professionals Nanxy Xu and Lauren Oakley, who was the stand-in dance partner for JB Gill when Amy Dowden withdrew due to injury.
Nancy dressed head to toe in brown with a long wool coat, brown jumper and brown and black aztec printed trousers, which she paired with knee high boots.
She completed her look with oversized dark glasses and gave a thumbs up to the camera as they dancers larked around in the street.
Lauren kept things comfy in a grey tracksuit and puffer coat as she too smiled and cosied up to the two dancing favourites.
Tasha Ghouri looked pleased with herself as she left the hotel after making it through to the grand finale which takes place tonight.
On Saturday morning, she stripped back her look in a long brown coat, pink hoodie and blue leggings.
Still adding a stylish twist to her outfit, the fresh-faced blonde added a pair of cosy fluffy slippers and oversized tote bag.
She wore a pair of large white headphones around her neck and gave a smile to the cameras who clicked away as she left the building.
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Chris’s pro partner Dianne, 35, beamed as she bundled in layers wearing a green puffer coat with a faux fur trim and layered a jumper underneath with dark black leggings
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The pair were joined by Strictly professionals Nanxy Xu and Lauren Oakley, who was the stand-in dance partner for JB Gill when Amy Dowden withdrew due to injury
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Nancy dressed head to toe in brown with a long wool coat, brown jumper and ztec printed trousers, which she paired with knee high boots
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Lauren kept things comfy in a grey tracksuit and puffer coat as she too smiledfor the camera ash she made her way to the studio for the grand finale rehearsals
Tasha’s professional dance partner Aljaž Škorjanec gave a thumbs up as he left the hotel in brown trousers, a black jumper and oversized coat.
Kai Widdrington who is set to star as Captain Hook at Liverpool’s Auditorium panto and was part of Strictly’s ‘golden couple’ with Nadiya Bychkova before they split in the summer, kept his head down as he made his way into rehearsals.
He donned a black coat and trousers, with a white jumper and sheielded his face with a white baseball cap.
With the BBC grand finale taking place this Saturday night, the stars heading to rehearsals comes after Chris admitted he’s suffered an ’emotional’ few days and is feeling ‘worn down’ as he and Dianne appeared on Strictly It Takes Two.
Despite the funnyman being the runaway favourite to win the series, the pair revealed that the past few days have been emotional and nearly left them in tears.
Speaking earlier this week to It Takes Two host Janette Manrara, 41, Chris admitted that he’s still recovering.
He said: ‘Do you know what, I haven’t really truly recovered, it’s been an emotional few days this week and it’s been…I feel worn down.’
‘My resilience has been worn down and I kind of fell apart a bit on Saturday and I haven’t fully recovered.’
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Tasha Ghouri looked pleased with herself as she left the hotel in a long brown coat, pink hoodie and blue leggings complete with a pair of cosy fluffy slippers and oversized tote bag
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Tasha’s professional dance partner Aljaž Škorjanec gave a thumbs up as he left the hotel in brown trousers, a black jumper and oversized coat
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Montell Douglas wrapped up in a furry beige coat as she left the hotel with Shane Ward
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Shane looked rather dapper in a chocolate brown winter coat, cream jogging bottoms and a flat cap
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Jamie Borthwick bared the cold in shorts and a blue hoody in preparation for the final
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Head judge Shirley Ballas looked in great spirits as she beamed while doing the peace signs on her way to Elstree Studios
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Sam Quek waved as she cut a stylish appearance in a green khaki jumper and beige cargos
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Toyah Wilcox looked smart in a red winter coat as she prepared to appear in the final after being voted out in the show’s early weeks
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Jamie was followed by Wynne Evans and Tom Dean, who left the competition on Week One
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Kai Widdrington who was part of Strictly’s ‘golden couple’ with Nadiya Bychkova before they split in the summer, kept his head down in a white baseball cap as he made his way out of the hotel
He added: ‘We’ve been, you know, training this week and I’ve had a few wobbles haven’t I?’
Dianne agreed, telling Chris: ‘You have, emotional wobbles’ Chris then added: ‘It’s incredible but I’m still feeling quite emotional.’
Dianne then opened up about how Chris has beaten the odds and turned a ‘weakness’ into a strength.
She told Janette: ‘I had a lot of messages tell me (at the start) that I would have a pretty quick season but we showed people that there’s so much more that is possible than what people actually think and that’s a real nice feeling, isn’t it Chris? to show that we can do more than what they think we can.’
She added: ‘And you never know, it might work out, and it certainly did.’
Discussing the comments on their latest dance, Chris told Janette: ‘Craig did say it needed more energy but I would like to say to Craig, that if I gave it any more energy then I would have left in an ambulance before the Viennese Waltz.’
Tonight’s show will see the dance partners bring back a Waltz they danced in week three to Liverpool anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone, and Dianne is hoping to improve Chris’ performance this time too.
Confessing his achievement so far this week almost reduced her to tears, she said: ‘His legs are stronger, the rise and fall is just so much more controlled.’
Whatever the outcome, the former CBeebies star will not be getting the live support from his parents as he tries to lift the glitterball trophy.
The funnyman’s father John, 71, revealed they will not be able to travel as his wife Valerie, 69, is ill.
Speaking at the family’s terraced home in Liverpool, he said: ‘We’re very proud of him – he’s done very well.
‘Unfortunately the wife’s in bed with flu so we’re not able to go down and see him.”
Asked if his son was going to win, John added: ‘You never know’.
EXCLUSIVE: Strictly Come Dancing star Sarah Hadland has admitted that she will not treat co-star Chris McCausland as a rival as the BBC competition show draws to a close
Strictly’s Sarah Hadland says she won’t treat Chris McCausland as a rival.The pair are competing for the Glitterball trophy on the BBC dance contest, which has millions gripped. If bookies are to be believed, it’ll be hot favourite Chris who nabs it – but Sarah insists she won’t mind.
Strictly’s Sarah Hadland says she won’t treat Chris McCausland as a rival.The pair are competing for the Glitterball trophy on the BBC dance contest, which has millions gripped. If bookies are to be believed, it’ll be hot favourite Chris who nabs it – but Sarah insists she won’t mind.
Just like the rest of the nation, she’s been staggered that he’s able to pull off such incredible routines despite being blind. Sarah says: “I will be happy if Chris wins. What he’s doing week on week is jaw-dropping. When you’re lucky enough to see it up close, it’s extraordinary.
“What Chris has done for the blind community is just wonderful. People like him are being represented on the show and it’s not like people are saying, ‘He’s doing well considering he’s blind’. He’s doing incredibly well, full stop. Those lifts he’s done are amazing.”
The star of the sitcom Miranda and the Scouse comedian might be pitted against each other on the show, but they’ve become close friends. Sarah adds: “Chris is hilarious and a lovely bloke. He’s a great laugh. We have lovely chats. He’s a lovely human being and so deserving, so I would be delighted for him if he won.”
Chris and Sarah will be going head to head in the final(Image: PA)
Ballroom dancing is famed for being very competitive, but Sarah found that’s not the case at Strictly. She says: “Sometimes when we’re rehearsing, another dancer will say, ‘What would be good is if you do this with your foot. They give you tips and that is so lovely. I wasn’t expecting that. People help each other.”
Sarah has also bonded with the other contestants: “With Strictly, you meet people you never would have crossed paths with otherwise. You form really lovely friendships. It’s incredible, I would happily go for a meal with everyone still on the show. We’re all really good mates. They’re lovely, we lift each other up. When people are dancing, we’re all screaming for them.”
Sarah is competing alongside her professional partner Vito Coppola(Image: PA)
“Rather than competing and wanting to be better than someone, we all want each other to be really good.” Sarah is competing with hunky pro dancer Vito Coppola: “When I first met Vito I straightaway thought, ‘This person has got loads of energy – that’s what I need.’
“I wanted someone who has a lot of energy, personality. I knew that would work for me. You have to go with your gut. We are both live wires. We are constantly saying we’re very similar.”
Sarah and Vito are getting through gruelling training sessions with plenty of comfort food and their secret weapon is something that has always famously divided the nation – Marmite spread. She says: “I’ve got Vito eating homely cuisine. I convinced him to try Marmite on toast and now he loves it. I explained that people love it or hate it. And now he loves it. He has it every day.
I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! runner-up Coleen Rooney is set to lose up to half of the reported £1.5m she earned for taking part in the ITV reality show.
Coleen Rooney not only lost out on being crowned Queen of the Jungle on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! 2024, she is also set to lose up to half of her prize earnings.
Reports claim that Wayne Rooney’s wife was offered more than £1.5 million for her time in the jungle, making her the highest-paid campmate of all time.
However, she will have to hand back a big percentage of the record-breaking sum to the Australian taxman.
According to tax advisory firm Blick Rothenberg, the show’s stars are subject to a 45 percent tax rate on their appearance fees.,
Coleen Rooney to have up to half of her I’m A Celeb prize taken away. (Image: ITV)
Coleen Rooney was rumoured to be paid £1.5m for her I’m A Celeb appearance. (Image: ITV)
He told the Daily Star: “I was offered I’m A Celebrity a few times and I didn’t want to do it. But when the money they were offering got really high, I decided to do it.
“But they neglect to point out that the Australian taxman takes nearly 50 percent of it straight off the top, which takes some of the cream off.”
The journalist, 78, said that after the Australian government had taken their share, he only ended up with half the amount he thought he would be getting.
With the show being filmed in Australia, HMRC receives very little from the celebrities compared to what it did when the show was set in Gwrych Castle in Wales.
Winner Danny Jones will also lose out on half his I’m A Celeb prize money. (Image: ITV)
Blick Rothenberg director Robert Salter said: “When the show was in Wales, HMRC was able to receive all the tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs) which were due on the stars’ appearance fees.
“This meant that with the highest earning stars, HMRC could actually receive up to 47 percent of their fee income (45 percent income tax and 2 percent NICs).
“However, with the show being filmed in Australia, the initial taxing rights on the appearance money sits there, where the highest earners from the show will be liable to a marginal tax rate of 45 percent on their appearance fees.”
It has also been reported that the celebrities have to hand back a chunk of their future earnings after appearing on the ITV show.
According to the Mirror, contracts at ITV Studios say the company will receive 30 percent of the celebrities’ earnings for six months after they have left the jungle and their profile has been raised.
Annie Sugden was the original Emmerdale matriarch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Seth was one of Emmerdale’s all time greats (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Betty was a force of nature (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Amos ran the Woolpack for 43 years (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Indomitable Eric is Emmerdale’s longest-serving character (Credit: ITV)
If looks could kill, Edna! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sandy was a real sweetheart (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl always looked glam (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Poor Rishi met a sad end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rodney modelling one of his iconic bolo ties (Credit: ITV)
Bear totally pulls off that leopard gown (Credit: ITV)
