13 huge Emmerdale moments still to come in 2026
13 Huge Emmerdale Moments Still to Come in 2026
The second half of 2026 promises to be one of the biggest years in Emmerdale history, with explosive secrets, emotional departures, dangerous villains, and life-changing twists set to transform the village. While ITV is keeping many details under wraps, official previews and casting announcements have revealed several major storylines still to come, alongside a few developments that remain the subject of speculation.
1. Noah Dingle’s Future Reaches a Turning Point
Reports suggest Noah Dingle’s storyline will reach an emotional conclusion as actor Jack Downham is reportedly leaving the soap after nearly two decades. ITV has not officially confirmed the departure, but widespread reports indicate Noah’s exit could become one of the year’s biggest moments.
2. Victoria Sugden Returns
After time away on maternity leave, Isabel Hodgins is returning as Victoria Sugden, bringing one of the show’s longest-serving characters back to the centre of village life.
3. A Powerful New Villain Arrives
Former Waterloo Road star Jason Done joins Emmerdale as a mysterious new villain whose connection to the village is expected to create major conflict.
4. Another Newcomer Brings a Huge Secret
Actress Nicole Evans is also joining the cast as a character hiding a major secret that producers say will have significant consequences for several villagers.
5. Gabby’s Emotional Battle
Gabby Thomas faces one of her most personal storylines yet as an attempt to regain control of her life develops into an unhealthy obsession with food, marking a subject the show says it has never explored before.
6. More Cast Changes
Behind the scenes, Emmerdale continues to undergo significant cast changes as ITV reshapes the series. Several established actors are reportedly departing while new characters arrive to refresh the show’s storylines.
7. Family Loyalties Will Be Tested
The Dingles, Tates, and Sugdens remain at the heart of the drama as long-buried secrets and old rivalries threaten to divide families once again.
8. New Romances—and Broken Hearts
Several relationships are expected to evolve before the year ends, while others may not survive the emotional challenges ahead. Love triangles, misunderstandings, and unexpected attractions continue to shape village life.
9. Dangerous Criminal Threats
With new villains arriving and existing feuds escalating, several residents could find themselves in genuine danger before the year’s biggest storylines reach their climax.
10. More Mystery Storylines
Producers continue to tease mysteries involving hidden identities, unexplained events, and secrets from the past that gradually surface as the year progresses.
11. Emotional Family Reunions
Several characters are expected to reconnect with estranged relatives or confront painful chapters from their past, leading to emotional scenes and difficult choices.
12. A Major Year-End Cliffhanger
Like previous years, Emmerdale is expected to end 2026 with a dramatic cliffhanger designed to leave viewers guessing until the new year. ITV has not revealed what form it will take, but the soap has a long tradition of ending the year with life-changing events.
13. The Village Will Never Be the Same
By the end of 2026, departures, new arrivals, and shocking revelations are expected to reshape the future of the village. Whether through romance, betrayal, or tragedy, several characters’ lives are likely to be permanently changed.
While these developments offer a glimpse of what’s ahead, it’s important to distinguish officially announced storylines—such as cast additions and confirmed character arcs—from media reports and fan speculation about exits or specific plot twists. ITV is expected to reveal more details as the remaining episodes of 2026 approach.

