Emmerdale boss Jane Hudson has stepped down after five years, it has been confirmed.
Jane has overseen some of the show’s biggest storylines in recent memory including Marlon Dingle’s stroke and Faith’s terminal breast cancer diagnosis, as well as Paddy Kirk’s heartbreaking attempt in his own life.
Arthur Thomas’ lauded coming out story was equally exceptional, as was the introduction of characters such as Mary Goskirk, who remains one of Emmerdale’s finest.
Jane also saw the ITV serial drama through the difficult years of Covid, keeping it on air with specially filmed lockdown episodes, which aired when all other drama production in the UK grounded to halt.
Away from hard-hitting drama, Jane’s tenure was also home to the compelling Meena Jutla storyline, which saw the character in question go on a murder rampage, claiming the lives of multiple residents across a two-year period.
The maize maze during super soap week 2021 springs to mind too, as does the show’s 50th anniversary.
‘I’ve had a wonderful time at Emmerdale and feel very lucky to have spent the last five years working alongside such a hardworking and talented team,’ said Jane following news of her departure.
‘I’m extremely proud of what we‘ve achieved both on and off screen, especially during the pandemic when we all pulled together to make sure we never went off air. As hard as it is to say goodbye to my fictional family of villagers, I can’t wait to have weekends back with my real family.
‘But mostly, I can’t wait to be an Emmerdale viewer again and have no idea what’s coming next.
Jane will leave on September 22 after seeing through the episodes for this year’s blockbusting Super Soap Week.
‘We all thank Jane for her unerring dedication to, and passion for, Emmerdale,’ Managing Director for Continuing Drama John Whiston added.
‘During her time running the show it has gone from strength to strength, pushing the boundaries of continuing drama to another level with powerful storylines, breath-taking stunts and deeply affecting human drama.
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‘She has also introduced compelling new characters and families, setting the programme up for even more success to come.
‘Everyone who loves the show thanks her for what she has brought to Emmerdale over these five last years and for leaving the show in such good stead with inventive and gripping stories on the cards well into 2024’.
It’s been all change at Emmerdale as of late, with a number of stars – including Rishi Sharma and Dan Spencer stars Bhasker Patel and Liam Fox – having departed the show in recent weeks.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
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