Emmerdale's boss Jane Hudson is to step down after five years in the role, ITV has announced.
Having officially taken over with the Christmas Day 2018 episodes, Hudson has since been in the executive producer role for almost 1,000 episodes, including last year's 50th anniversary celebrations which saw multiple characters killed off during Storm Week.
In recent months there has been unrest among the fanbase over what has been perceived to be dull storylines, however, while a string of cast members have either left or are due to leave, including Matthew Wolfenden (David), Fiona Wade (Priya), Bhasker Patel (Rishi) and Liam Fox (Dan).
Hudson will remain in charge of the soap until September 22 in order to see through the annual Super Soap Week episodes, which are due to air in October.
"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," she said in a statement.
"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!"
John Whiston, the MD for continuing drama at ITV Studios, added: "We all thank Jane for her unerring dedication to, and passion for, Emmerdale.
"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. 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."
A decision on Hudson's successor is expected to be announced soon.
Neil Wilkes
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