ITV announce rule change for soap stars
ITV have relaxed some rules to allow soap stars to appear in pantomime.
ITV bosses have changed their rules to allow Coronation Street and Emmerdale stars to appear in pantomime.
The broadcaster had previously prevented talent from taking on other temporary projects outside of the channel, but they have re-evaluated the guidance in order to allow "a few" soap stars to take a temporary break from their shows in order to tread the boards over the festive period.
A spokesperson for ITV told Radio Times: "We've agreed to release a few of the actors from Emmerdale and Coronation Street to appear in pantomime this year.
"We've been looking at this for a while and with plenty of notice, we've been able to release the actors for a limited time.
The confirmation comes after it was announced Bradley Riches will be taking a short break from playing Lewis Barton in order to take on the role of Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at the Sunderland Empire from December.
The Heartstopper actor - who joined Emmerdale in May last year - said in a statement: "I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to panto and especially to be playing Peter Pan again. It’s such an iconic and magical role.
"There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live audience at Christmas, and I can’t wait to be at the Sunderland Empire. It’s going to be a brilliant festive season – I’m so excited to get flying!"
The theatre announced Bradley's casting on Wednesday (04.03.26) after hinting at their lead star with silhouette images earlier in the week.
They wrote on social media: "BRADLEY RICHES from Netflix's Heartstopper, Emmerdale and Big Brother is flying into Sunderland this Christmas as our thrill-seeking hero, Peter Pan!(sic)"
Meanwhile, when Bradley's casting in Emmerdale was announced, he hailed the role - which, at the time, had not been announced - as a "real bucket list moment".
He said: "I’m beyond excited to be joining 'Emmerdale'
"It’s a real bucket list moment for me, especially since it was my grandad’s favourite soap, I just know he’d be over the moon.
"Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming, and the village is even more amazing in real life.
"I absolutely love my character (though I can’t spill too much just yet!), and I’m just so grateful for this opportunity.
"I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store..."
