Emmerdale Producer Laura Shaw has revealed huge twists ahead this year including Victoria Sugden’s killer secret under threat, Cain Dingle’s diagnosis and the return of Graham Foster
There’s some huge storylines on the way in 2026 on Emmerdale, including a cancer diagnosis, a shocking return and secrets at risk of being exposed.
The ITV soap’s Producer Laura Shaw has revealed all the big moments ahead, following the explosive Corriedale crossover with Coronation Street. In this special episode we saw Cain Dingle face the news that doctors had found a mass during scans, while John Sugden was found dead.
Graham Foster made a surprise return from the dead too, while Tuesday’s episode and new spoilers teased more drama including Joe Tate recording Victoria Sugden killing John. On the way in the aftermath, Joe’s sickening plan becomes clear as he targets the Sugdens.
READ MORE: Emmerdale fans ‘solve’ who Graham was on the phone to in Ray murder twistREAD MORE: Corriedale’s biggest bombshells – double death, terrifying diagnosis and shock return
Not only that, but the Dingle family are in for big turmoil as Cain is diagnosed with cancer. His wife Moira Dingle is arrested for human trafficking after being set up by Celia Daniels, who is now dead.
Teasing all the big moments ahead, Laura said: “The Dingle family are set to face huge repercussions and Cain is at the centre of a major prostate cancer storyline spanning across 2026. Adding to their devastation, Moira will be arrested for human trafficking, with her arrest timed to coincide with her husband’s diagnosis.
“Their complex marriage will be tested as they face dark times. The truth about John’s death will be revealed, as Victoria’s clever deception, making John’s death look like suicide, will unravel.
“Evil Joe Tate knows the truth and has damning video evidence which he plans to use to get what he wants from the Sugdens, potentially taking control of Butler’s Farm. Robert is also in the thick of it, trying to save Victoria by planting evidence.”
Could this lead to an exit for Victoria? Another murder secret will come to light too. Laura said: “Following the discovery of Ray’s body, villagers’ secrets will come out as the mystery surrounding Ray’s death is finally solved.
“Before the end of January, a special week will flash back to the night of the murder, revealing which of the multiple suspects is responsible for Ray’s demise. While Paddy is still out searching for his missing father, the bleak truth is that Bear has been killed by the villainous Celia.
“This emotional search and tragic discovery will bring Paddy’s mental health problems back to the forefront.” We also find out what really happened in 2020 when Graham Foster was killed off, or not.
Laura said: “A familiar face is returning to the village full-time! None other than Graham Foster will make a sensational comeback. His return will have massive repercussions for both Kim, with whom he shares a complex love and hate relationship, and Rhona, who was about to run away with him.
“Graham will explain exactly what happened six years ago when he was ‘killed’, but the question will be whether Joe can ever forgive his father-figure for allowing him to believe he was dead.” Finally, Charity Dingle prepares to give birth, and it seems her secret is finally exposed.
Laura shared: “The truth surrounding Charity’s pregnancy is set to blow wide open. Mackenzie mistakenly believes he could be the baby’s father, but the secret that Ross is the real father is still under wraps. With the baby due in spring, the birth may be the event that finally exposes all of Charity’s secrets…”
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok, Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.