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It’s official, Eric Pollard isn’t going anywhere. Emmerdale legend Chris Chittell has reportedly signed a brand-new deal with ITV that will see him remain on the soap through September 2026, celebrating 40 incredible years in the Dales.
Chittell, now 76, is the show’s longest-serving cast member, having first stepped into the role of Eric Pollard in 1986. Originally intended to appear in just 12 episodes as a cunning villain, his performance struck a chord with viewers and producers alike, and the rest, as they say, is soap history.
A show insider confirmed the exciting news:
“Chris is Emmerdale. There was no way he wasn’t going to make it to 40 years. It’s such a big achievement and he loves being on the show as much as he did when he first joined. There are big things coming for Eric, well into next year.”
Over nearly four decades, viewers have seen Eric evolve from a devious dealer to one of the village’s most complex and enduring characters. His storylines have tackled everything from fraud and heartbreak to grief and redemption, with Chittell’s nuanced performance earning him a loyal fanbase across generations.
While some soap stars come and go, Chittell has become a cornerstone of Emmerdale life, and his commitment to the show has helped shape its long-running success.
Chris has starred on the soap since 1986
The news comes as Emmerdale continues to cement its place in the TV landscape, remaining a ratings hit and a staple of British culture. With his 40th anniversary fast approaching, fans can expect a wave of emotional and dramatic moments for Eric Pollard.
Whether he’s stirring up trouble or offering words of wisdom from behind the till at the village shop, there’s no denying Eric Pollard’s place in soap royalty, and it looks like he’s here to stay.
