ITV has confirmed that both Emmerdale and Coronation Street will be pulled from the schedule on Tuesday, July 14, to make way for the World Cup semi-final between Spain and France. The match kicks off at 7pm, forcing the two soaps to shift to Wednesday, July 15.
Revised ITV Schedule for World Cup Semi-Final
Emmerdale, which typically airs at 8pm on weeknights, and Coronation Street, normally broadcast at 8.30pm, will both be delayed by one day. On Wednesday, Emmerdale will air at its usual 8pm slot, while Coronation Street will move to 9pm. This marks the second schedule disruption for the soaps during the World Cup period.
Meanwhile, the BBC will broadcast England's semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday, July 15. ITV's coverage of Spain vs France on Tuesday will take precedence over regular programming.
Noah Dingle Actor Jack Downham Leaving Emmerdale After 17 Years
In related soap news, Jack Downham, who has played Noah Dingle since the age of six, is reportedly set to leave Emmerdale after 17 years. According to the Daily Star, his departure is part of ongoing cost-cutting measures that have seen several Dingle family members written out. Downham has already filmed his final scenes and is expected to exit the show within weeks.
A source told The Sun: "Jack is looking at the positives though and is hopeful about future opportunities."
Reflecting on his time on the soap in a 2021 interview with Inside Soap, Downham said: "I've loved it. It's quite strange to be around adults all the time, but I think it's helped me mature in a lot of ways. On the other hand, I've missed out on my fair share of events and things with friends my own age, but it's all part and parcel of having such a great opportunity."
He added: "The constant drama is a great part of it. There's always something going on. Plus, everyone who plays a part in the Dingle family is so nice to work with. I've definitely learnt so much from Emma (Atkins) and she's always looked after me."
Regular ITV Soap Schedules
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and from 7am on ITVX. Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX. Viewers are advised to check updated schedules for the week of July 13–17.
