Key moments
In a significant scheduling change, both Emmerdale and Coronation Street will not air on ITV1 on March 27, 2026. The disruption is due to the network’s coverage of the international friendly match between England and Uruguay, which is set to begin at 7 PM. This decision has left many fans frustrated, as they will miss their favorite shows.
The cancellation comes as both series typically air during prime time, with Emmerdale scheduled for 8 PM and Coronation Street at 8:30 PM on weeknights. Fans have expressed their disappointment, with one viewer stating, “What again !! This is happening way too often.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among viewers about the frequency of such scheduling conflicts.
In response to the disruption, ITV has announced that both shows will air special episodes on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 7 PM and 7:30 PM respectively. This rare Sunday airing aims to accommodate fans who are eager to catch up on the storylines, particularly after the introduction of new characters like Clive, played by Phil Mealey, who has recently been involved in a poignant storyline related to Cain Dingle’s prostate cancer.
Clive’s character made his debut during a support group meeting, highlighting the emotional depth of the ongoing narrative. As he grapples with the impact of cancer, Clive expressed his struggles, saying, “And now we’re gonna sit here and listen to all the ways in which cancer’s gonna strip me of my dignity.” This storyline has resonated with audiences, making the scheduling change even more frustrating for fans who wish to follow the developments.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, commented on the scheduling changes, stating, “In a world where there is so much competition for viewers’ time and attention, and viewing habits continue to change, we believe this is the right amount of episodes that fans can fit into their viewing schedule, to keep up to date with the shows.” This reflects ITV’s efforts to adapt to changing viewer preferences while still delivering content.
Historically, both Emmerdale and Coronation Street have faced similar disruptions due to sports events. This latest change is part of a broader trend where networks prioritize live sports coverage, often at the expense of regular programming. Fans have become accustomed to these interruptions, but the frequency of such events raises questions about the future scheduling of beloved shows.
As the date approaches, viewers will be eagerly anticipating the special Sunday episodes, hoping to see how the storylines progress. The next episodes will air on Easter Sunday, providing a much-needed opportunity for fans to reconnect with their favorite characters. However, the ongoing adjustments to the schedule may leave some wondering if this will become a regular occurrence.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any long-term changes to the airing schedule for Emmerdale and Coronation Street. For now, fans will have to adjust their viewing habits and prepare for the upcoming Sunday episodes, while also expressing their frustrations over the frequent scheduling conflicts that disrupt their viewing experience.