ITV's managing director Kevin Lygo has confirmed that Coronation Street and Emmerdale will continue after the company sold its media and entertainment business to Sky.
Soap Power Hour Praised
Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival 2026, Lygo said: "These shows will continue," referring to Coronation Street, Emmerdale, I'm A Celebrity and Love Island.
He also highlighted the success of the new 'soap power hour' scheduling choice, saying: "They've embedded now, that block at 8pm is still always the highest-viewed thing of that day. It's really important."
Deal Details and Crossover Question
The sale, announced in July, is worth up to £1.6 billion and includes the ITVX platform and ITV's free channels. ITV's studio arm, which produces shows like Love Island and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here, is not part of the deal.
Fans have already seen changes this year, with Coronation Street episodes cut to 30 minutes and reduced by one per week. Lygo was also asked about another crossover episode following the success of Corriedale, but said "it's not something to do on an annual basis".
Sky's Response
Dana Strong, Sky's group chief executive, said: "Bringing Sky and ITV Media & 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."
Sky Group added: "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."
