Overview

• Chris Chittell has extended his contract to remain as Eric Pollard until September 2026, marking his 40th year on the soap
• Chittell first joined Emmerdale in 1986 for a 12-episode villainous stint before becoming the show’s longest-serving cast member
• Pollard’s key storylines have included his 2023 Parkinson’s diagnosis and the death of his wife Val in a helicopter crash
• This renewal highlights ITV’s reliance on long-standing cast members to anchor Emmerdale during tightening budgets
• Insiders say major plot developments are planned for Pollard’s milestone year to retain audience engagement