Emma Atkins, who portrays Charity Dingle on Emmerdale, recently discussed her experience working with iconic ITV figures Ken Barlow and Eric Pollard. This conversation took place against the backdrop of the much-anticipated Corriedale episode, where the worlds of Emmerdale and Coronation Street converged.
Charity Dingle’s Dramatic Journey
Since her debut in 2000, Atkins’ character has captivated viewers. Charity took a brief four-year hiatus from 2005 to 2009 but has since emerged as a central figure in the show. Her recent storyline involving a one-night stand with Ross Barton resulted in an unexpected pregnancy. Complicating matters, Charity had pledged to be a surrogate for Jacob and Sarah. Unbeknownst to them, complications arise as Mack believes the baby belongs to him.
Corriedale Crossover Event
In a significant crossover event, Charity Dingle was one of the featured characters in a special episode of Corriedale. This crossover allowed fans to see familiar characters from both soaps interact. The build-up included a 30-minute episode leading up to the pivotal hour-long special.
- Charity is involved in a major storyline regarding a surrogate pregnancy.
- Mack believes he is the father, creating tension within the storyline.
- The Corriedale special combines characters from both Emmerdale and Coronation Street for an hour-long dramatic experience.
The episode also featured a tense moment when several characters were involved in a car crash. Fortunately, Charity, Mack, Jacob, and Sarah emerged unscathed. At the hospital following the crash, a memorable scene unfolded featuring Charity interacting with Ken Barlow and Eric Pollard.
Soap Legends Unite
In a lighter moment amidst the drama, at the hospital’s vending machine, Charity assisted Ken and Eric as they attempted to retrieve a snack. Reflecting on this experience, Atkins expressed her excitement about being part of such an iconic moment. She shared, “I haven’t told my mum yet, but she’ll be so excited. It’s a gold soap moment and I’m part of it.”
Behind the Scenes
Director Duncan Foster provided insight into Ken’s involvement in the crossover. He revealed that actor Bill Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, had expressed a desire to participate. Foster described an emotionally charged reunion, saying, “He was just so thrilled to be in that one scene, and that is one of my favorite moments.”
The Corriedale crossover not only highlighted the intertwining fates of beloved characters but also paid tribute to the legacy of British soap operas. The encounters between these iconic figures enrich the storytelling, making it a memorable event for fans of both Emmerdale and Coronation Street.
