Emmerdale scored a double victory at the TRIC Awards on Tuesday, winning Soap of the Year and seeing Jeff Hordley crowned Soap Actor of the Year, just days after ITV announced the cancellation of the British Soap Awards.
The ITV soap beat rivals EastEnders, Coronation Street and Casualty to take the top prize at the Television and Radio Industries Club Awards. Hordley, who has played Cain Dingle since 2000, was recognised for his long-running performance.
Cast and Fans Celebrate
Actress Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, shared her excitement on Instagram, writing: 'YES WE ALL DID IT!!!! Massive massive congratulations to our Jeff @jeffhordley you deserve this so so much….all our team back in Yorkshire!! Well done @emmerdale.' Fans flooded the post with praise, with one commenting: 'So thrilled for you all and Jeff considering the talent in his category, so deserved! And finally recognition for Emmerdale.' Another added: 'Yes!!! Go Emmerdale, my fav soap. Cain Dingle best actor so well deserved.'
TRIC Awards 2026 Winners
Other winners at the ceremony included Drama – Adolescence, Entertainment Show – Clarkson’s Farm, Game Show – Celebrity Traitors, Daytime Show – A Place in the Sun, Food Programme – Come Dine with Me, Podcast – Staying Relevant, and the TRIC Special Award went to Trevor Nelson.
Significance of the Wins
The victories are especially meaningful as the British Soap Awards, long considered the biggest annual soap celebration, have been shelved by ITV. The TRIC Awards are voted by the public, making the recognition a direct reflection of viewer support. Emmerdale has remained one of the UK's most popular soaps with dramatic storylines and emotional twists, and Hordley's portrayal of Cain Dingle has earned a devoted fanbase over more than two decades.
