Soap fans have been left fuming after a major scheduling shake-up saw Emmerdale, Coronation Street and EastEnders pulled from TV listings this week due to sporting events. The disruption, caused by coverage of Wimbledon and the Women’s Euros, has sparked outrage among viewers who rely on the shows for routine and escapism.
Emmerdale, which normally airs an hour-long episode on Thursdays, and EastEnders, typically a 30-minute slot, were both absent from Thursday’s schedule. Coronation Street, which does not usually air on Thursdays, will also be missing from Friday’s lineup as ITV broadcasts live football, including Portugal vs Spain and Germany vs Poland.
Furious fans took to social media to vent. One said: “Why have we no Emmerdale or Corrie, cause women’s football on ITV? Why can’t the football move to ITV2 or ITVX? Stupid planning.” Another added: “Some of us rely on soaps for routine and they are the only happy part of our day!”
EastEnders fans were treated to double episodes earlier in the week, but the soap will not return until next Wednesday. Emmerdale is set to resume on Tuesday, July 8, at 7.30pm. However, Coronation Street faces the longest gap, with Monday and Wednesday episodes cancelled next week, resuming on Thursday at 9pm.
