Exclusive: Emmerdale plans "epic" storylines for Christmas 2026

Emmerdale spoilers follow.

Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper has shared the first teasers on this year's festive episodes – promising that there's "epic" drama in store.

There's always huge anticipation surrounding Christmas episodes in Soapland, and it sounds like Dales bosses will be going all-out this year.

Related: Exclusive – Emmerdale confirms shocking ending to Sadie King's storyline

In an exclusive chat with Inside Soap, Sophie confirmed that storylines will be stepping up a gear in the coming weeks.

"We have a really dramatic autumn coming first," promised Sophie. "The build-up to Christmas is going to be exciting and dramatic.

"As the dark nights draw in, our drama intensifies. We have secrets, lies, temptations, betrayals – all building beautifully for that festive season."

She continued: "Christmas will then be epic – that's something I can tell you. There's a really exciting, brilliant end to the year, and afterwards, a phenomenal start to 2027.

"I can promise you that Christmas is going to be a real affair on Emmerdale this year."

Related: Emmerdale reveals Vinny exit plot drama in 32 spoiler pictures

So far, Emmerdale bosses are keeping tight-lipped over which characters will be featuring. However, Jeff Hordley – who plays Cain Dingle – has previously hinted that the festive season could be a tough time for the village hardman as he continues to receive treatment for prostate cancer.

The Kings and the Tates will also surely shed a few tears, as it's the first Christmas since the deaths of Jimmy and Dawn.

Speaking of which, we also just had to ask whether there are more stunts around the corner…

Related: Emmerdale to revisit Samson Dingle story as his family await return

"We can always throw one into the mix," replied Sophie. "As we build over the next couple of months, we have some really high-octane stories in play and we know our viewers love a stunt.

"Stick with us – there’ll be some exciting stuff at the end of this year, and into the start of 2027 as well."

Read Sophie Roper's full Emmerdale producer chat in the new issue of Inside Soap magazine, out today (6 October).

Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.

Read more Emmerdale spoilers on our dedicated homepage

Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.

The new edition of Legends, a 100-page celebration of Dolly Parton's life, is here. Buy Dolly in newsagents or online.