ITV have revealed plans for a huge soap shake-up, as Stuart Blackburn is set to step aside from his role as 'Coronation Street' executive producer, making way for the current ‘Emmerdale’ boss Kate Oates.
Stuart has held the role - which involves masterminding storylines, live episodes and production - for three years, but in the New Year, Kate will step into the role, with Iain McLeod taking over on ‘Emmerdale’.
Kate Oates
Stuart has shared his thoughts ahead of his departure, stating: “I’ve loved every minute of producing ‘Coronation Street’.
“What a rollercoaster ride the last three years has been. We’ve met every challenge along the way and I can’t praise the cast, crew and writers highly enough for rising to the occasion with each storyline.
“For the next few months my focus will remain entirely on all things Corrie, as we have massive stories coming up taking us in to the Spring and Summer of 2016.
“I wish my friend Kate well in her role as she takes on one of the best jobs in television.”
Stuart Blackburn
During his time in the ‘Corrie’ hot seat, Stuart has worked on a number of memorable storylines, including Hayley Cropper’s emotional exit, and produced two live episodes.
However, while the soap has continued to scoop awards, a number of critics and viewers have been left disappointed, and former writer Kay Mellor criticised the Deirdre Barlow funeral episode.
Meanwhile, ‘Emmerdale’ has gone from strength-to-strength, and pulled off a number of surprises that have delighted viewers.
Their recent #SummerFate episodes were a huge hit, and fans were delighted it was revealed that Ross Barton wasn’t dead after all.