Emmerdale favourite Michelle Hardwick has announced a significant new acting venture away from the Yorkshire Dales, teaming up with a former Coronation Street star for a powerful short film.
From the Dales to Domestic Drama
The actress, renowned for playing village vet Vanessa Woodfield since 2012, shared the news on her Instagram Story on Monday, 12th January 2026. She posted behind-the-scenes images from the set of the short film Through The Eyes of Bairns, which tackles the sensitive subject of growing up in the shadow of domestic abuse.
"Loved this shoot," Michelle wrote alongside the photos, expressing her enthusiasm for the project. She also reposted a message from the film's official Instagram page, which confirmed the completion of the first block of filming. The post praised the "incredible cast and crew" and highlighted the "amazing" energy and teamwork on set, with more filming scheduled for the following weekend.
A Soap Star Collaboration
In a notable casting move, Michelle's on-screen wife in the film is played by fellow soap star Krissi Bohn. Bohn is best known to UK audiences for her role as Jenna Kamara in Coronation Street, which she played between 2012 and 2014. This collaboration marks an exciting crossover for fans of both major ITV soaps.
Fans were quick to offer their support for Michelle's new endeavour on social media. Responses ranged from "Looks amazing!!" and "What an amazing team" to an outpouring of heart emojis, showing strong audience anticipation for the project.
Life Away from the Camera
This professional update comes shortly after Michelle and her wife, Kate Brooks, shared a personal heartbreak. The couple recently announced the death of their beloved dog, Fred, describing their hearts as "truly broken" in an emotional Instagram post last week. They remembered Fred as their "protector" and a "warrior," having shared seven years with him.
On screen, Michelle's character Vanessa has been at the centre of a major Emmerdale storyline. She recently discovered that her ex-partner, Charity Dingle, is carrying her own baby, not that of her granddaughter, Sarah Sugden. The plot thickened when Vanessa mistakenly told Charity's husband, Mackenzie Boyd, that he might be the father, unaware that Ross Barton is the real father.
Emmerdale continues to air on ITV1 and STV on weekday nights at 8pm.
