ITV managing director Kevin Lygo has confirmed that Coronation Street and Emmerdale will continue despite Sky's planned £1.6 billion acquisition of ITV's media and streaming business. Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival 2026, Lygo addressed the future of major ITV favourites, including the two soaps, Love Island, and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, stating: 'These shows will continue.'
Soaps remain central to ITV's schedule
Lygo highlighted the success of ITV's 'power hour', which has established the soaps in the 8 pm slot. He noted that the block has become firmly embedded with audiences and continues to deliver strong viewing figures. 'They've embedded now, that block at 8 pm is still always the highest-viewed thing of that day,' he explained, adding: 'It's really important.'
When asked about the possibility of more ambitious crossover events following Corriedale earlier this year, Lygo did not rule out similar ideas but suggested they would not become a regular occurrence. 'It's not something to do on an annual basis,' he said. His overall message about the soaps' future was positive, adding: 'Long may it continue.'
Sky deal details and reassurance
The comments come as ITV prepares for one of the biggest changes in its history. Sky has agreed to acquire ITV's media and entertainment operations, including its broadcast channels and ITVX streaming service, following months of discussions. The £1.6 billion deal is designed to create a stronger British media business capable of competing in an increasingly streaming-dominated market. ITV Studios, the production business behind programmes including Love Island and I'm a Celebrity, is not included in the sale and will remain separate.
Sky Group CEO Dana Strong has also reassured viewers that ITV's familiar shows will remain central to the broadcaster following the deal. She previously named Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Love Island, I'm a Celebrity, This Morning, Loose Women, Lorraine, and News at Ten among the programmes audiences will continue to enjoy. Strong described the agreement as a 'defining moment for British media', saying it would combine free-to-air television, pay TV, and streaming.
Free-to-air guarantee and next steps
ITV's channels and ITVX are expected to remain free-to-air until at least 2034 under the broadcaster's public service licence. The Sky deal still requires regulatory approval before it is finalised, so further developments are likely. For viewers concerned about the future of Weatherfield or the Dales, ITV's message is clear: Coronation Street and Emmerdale remain very much part of the plan.
