In an unprecedented television event, the worlds of Coronation Street and Emmerdale are set to collide tonight in a special one-off episode titled 'Corriedale'. The explosive hour-long crossover will air on ITV at 8pm on Monday, January 5, 2026, promising dramatic consequences that will leave at least one character dead.
Behind-the-Scenes Clues Hint at Carnage
While plot details have been tightly guarded, newly released behind-the-scenes photos offer tantalising clues. The episode centres around a major vehicle collision, with spoilers suggesting multiple fatalities are on the cards. Residents from both Weatherfield and the Dales will be left grieving in the aftermath of the devastating pile-up.
Coronation Street star Sally Carman-Duttine, who plays Abi Franklin, teased the episode's impact, stating: "There's a possibility lives will be forever changed." The episode is a unique treat for fans, as it will not be available early on ITVX like regular instalments, forcing viewers to tune in live for the revelations.
Who is Caught in the Crash?
The preview images reveal several characters bearing the visible scars of the accident. Shona and David Platt from Coronation Street are seen with cuts and scratches, raising urgent questions about the safety of their baby. Villainous Theo Silverton appears dirty and dishevelled on set, while Steve McDonald is pictured with a bloodied head next to Emmerdale's Dr Liam Cavanagh.
From the Emmerdale contingent, Aaron Dingle also looks to be injured. Intriguingly, a crash test dummy dressed identically to Corrie's Carl Webster suggests he may be a prime victim. The snaps also feature other key players including Cain and Moira Dingle, Carla Connor, and Emmerdale newlyweds Jacob Gallagher and Sarah Sugden.
Filming Secrets and Soap Build-Up
The groundbreaking episode was filmed over three weeks in October, including a demanding 12-night shoot on a disused road near Harrogate, Yorkshire. Cast members have spoken of the unique atmosphere on set.
Julia Goulding (Shona Platt) shared: "There was such a fantastic atmosphere on set. It was really special to be able to work with the Emmerdale cast and crew... We kept the energy levels high with coffee and lots of sugary sweets!"
Danny Miller (Aaron Dingle) added: "The night shoots were a lot of fun and it's been great working with the Corrie team. I can't wait to see how the episode plays out... It's going to be epic and every soap fan's dream."
The drama follows directly from Friday's Coronation Street, which saw major bust-ups at Debbie Webster's wedding to Ronnie Bailey. Tensions between Debbie and her brother Carl, after she hid news of their mother's final days from him, are particularly high as they head towards the fateful crash.
For fans wanting more, exclusive behind-the-scenes access will be available in 'Corriedale Backstage Pass' from 9pm on ITVX, ITV3 and YouTube, featuring interviews with the cast. The build-up begins from 7am on Monday with half-hour episodes of both soaps on ITVX, leading into the regular ITV broadcasts at 7pm and 7.30pm.
