ITV's managing director Kevin Lygo has confirmed that Coronation Street and Emmerdale will continue, following the broadcaster's agreement to sell its media and entertainment division to Sky.
The deal, announced in July, is worth up to £1.6 billion and includes the ITVX platform and ITV's free-to-air channels. ITV's studio division, which produces shows such as Love Island and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here, is not part of the agreement.
Soap power hour praised
Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival 2026, Lygo addressed the future of the soaps. "These shows will continue," he said, referring to Coronation Street, Emmerdale, I'm A Celebrity and Love Island.
He also highlighted the success of the 'soap power hour' scheduling decision, stating: "They've embedded now, that block at 8pm is still always the highest-viewed thing of that day. It's really important."
Crossover speculation
Lygo was asked whether another crossover episode is planned following the success of Corriedale earlier this year. He revealed that while he is open to suggestions, "it's not something to do on an annual basis".
Sky's response
Dana Strong, Sky's group chief executive, commented on the agreement, which is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval: "Bringing Sky and ITV Media and Entertainment together combines the very best of free-to-air television, pay TV and streaming, ensuring viewers across the UK continue to enjoy outstanding British programming in a rapidly changing world.
"ITV will remain a public service broadcaster at the heart of British life, and we're excited about the future we can build together."
Sky Group also stated: "The UK media market is undergoing a profound and rapid transformation, and as competition for audiences intensifies, scale matters more than ever in order to compete with global streaming giants and YouTube in the UK.
"Viewers will continue to enjoy the shows they know and love, such as Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Love Island, I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, This Morning, Loose Women, Lorraine and News at Ten – alongside major live sporting events," Sky added.
Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
