ITV has made enormous changes to both Coronation Street and Emmerdale, including a reduction in output and a brand new transmission pattern. Further alterations behind the scenes have left the cast furious. ITV is facing a negative reaction because the pay for the stars is going to be reduced, in some cases by 17%.
The Sun previously reported that the stars of both soaps faced harsh changes to their contracts due to ITV drastically reducing the number of guaranteed episodes offered to its actors. The new arrangement will see a number of stars film fewer scenes across the year. According to an earlier report from The Sun, actors from Corrie and Emmerdale were told about the changes last month via email.
The report further detailed the initial response from cast members, some of whom were facing a reduction of one sixth in their income. A source added to the publication that there was no consultation regarding the changes, which aren't coming into effect until August. The changes have led actors to seek help from trade union group Equity and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.
At the start of this year, ITV launched a new soap 'power hour', which now sees Emmerdale air for thirty minutes at 8pm, and then Corrie for half an hour at 8:30pm. Following audience research, bosses concluded that 30 minute episodes attracted higher audience figures throughout 2024. ITV's Managing Director of Media and Entertainment Kevin Lygo previously said the new commissioning pattern is viewer-led.
The way things are being handled by ITV bosses is appalling, and some big stars are talking about walking away altogether, according to a soap insider. Many feel ITV is bending the rules for some favoured stars, quietly assuring them they will be looked after, while others are being hung out to dry and are prepared to walk if necessary, a further source said. It's caused uproar.
There was no consultation. They effectively told the stars to 'take it or leave it', another insider stated. The actors and actresses of both Corrie and Emmerdale are furious.
Some have been in tears and are worrying about paying their bills, the insider added. The specific changes made to the contracts beyond reduced guaranteed episodes have not been detailed. It is also unknown how many actors are affected by the pay reductions and contract changes.
The official response from ITV, Coronation Street, and Emmerdale to the cast's fury and the reported issues has not been disclosed.