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The world’s longest running television drama made history in 2026 thanks to the spectacular crossover between Coronation Street and its sibling Emmerdale. But that was only the beginning of a year that promises to be packed with dramatic moments for the residents of Weatherfield. While viewers are still recovering from the events of the Corrie Dale episodes, there is already a great deal to absorb.

ITV described the crossover as a standalone event, but confirmed that the aftermath would have lasting consequences for both communities. The intense drama was designed to bind the two soaps together as familiar faces departed and new characters crossed between worlds. Those consequences have already begun to ripple through both streets.

Here is an unmissable preview of what lies ahead, as Coronation Street executive producer Kate Brooks reveals the ten biggest storylines of the coming year. With Becky Swain finally exposed and dealt with, Carla Connor and Lisa Swain are now able to focus on rebuilding their relationship. Although there is much to overcome, their love never wavered during Becky’s manipulation.

Carla and Lisa are engaged, meaning wedding bells are likely to ring before too long. They will finally have the chance to enjoy their happiness and step away from the chaos Becky left behind. Spring is set to be a romantic season for the couple and promises to bring smiles to many viewers.

Theo Silverton has reached his lowest point following Billy Mayhew’s death. Todd Grimshaw finds himself trapped in a deeply complex situation after nearly leaving Theo once he began opening up to Billy. As 2026 begins, Todd no longer feels strong enough to walk away.

Theo becomes consumed by guilt, repeatedly questioning whether Billy would still be alive if the truth had been revealed. In his distorted thinking, Theo convinces himself that his actions were necessary to keep Todd close. To bury his guilt, he presents himself as a pillar of support while becoming increasingly manipulative.

This storyline is intentionally uncomfortable to watch, as it explores an important subject that cannot continue indefinitely. Todd will gradually begin to realize that things are not as they seem. Those around him will also start to see the truth.

The mysterious tattooed woman from Corrie Dale has been revealed as Jodie, the estranged biological sister of Shona Platt. Her existence has been referenced before, making this the right moment to explore Shona’s past. Jodie is complex, emotionally burdened, and deeply connected to her sister despite their resentment.

Viewers will see Jodie’s mischievous personality as she slowly reveals who she truly is and what she wants. She is set to bring significant drama to the Platt family. Shona and David Platt are also caring for baby Harper, leaving them extremely busy.

The show will also uncover Jodie’s connection to Emmerdale’s Graham Foster and explain why she has been forced to flee for her life. This storyline will run throughout spring and summer. Its consequences will be far reaching.

Debbie Webster’s dementia storyline continues to unfold as events in Corrie Dale place her in an impossible position. She takes the blame for Carl Webster’s dangerous driving, despite her growing confusion. The prospect of facing punishment or prison terrifies her at such an early stage of her illness.

Her family begins to fracture as Carl and Kevin Webster become more divided than ever. Debbie struggles to protect them all while battling her own fears. She finds support from Glenda Shuttleworth, Christina Boyd, Bernie Winter Alahan, and Sally Metcalfe.

Instead of enjoying her honeymoon, she faces the anger of a community that believes she is responsible for Billy’s death. A special episode in mid February will feature a flash forward set several months in the future. In that episode, a character discovers a dead body on the street.

The identity of the victim remains unknown, with five possible suspects. Viewers will be taken on a journey to uncover what really happened and who is responsible. As summer arrives, the storyline intensifies and affects the entire community.

Megan Walsh’s grooming of teenage Will Driscoll continues, with the story told as truthfully as possible. Sam Blakeman becomes involved after sensing that something is wrong. Megan attempts to manipulate Sam into silence, causing serious harm to his mental health.

Eva Price becomes furious when the truth emerges and joins forces with Leanne Battersby and Toyah Habibi. The three women unite to protect their sons after realizing they were manipulated by someone they trusted. Tension escalates as families fight to keep their children safe.

Tim Metcalfe is forced to confront buried trauma as Will’s story reminds him of his own past. He begins to realize that what happened to him when he was younger was wrong and unacceptable. Will’s vulnerability pushes Tim toward painful self awareness.

The storyline also explores the friendship between Tim, Steve McDonald, and Ben Driscoll. Despite the serious subject matter, moments of humor remain through banter and shared support. Balance between darkness and warmth remains essential.

Maggie Driscoll joined the Rovers last year and there is far more to come from her family. She has already proven how far she will go to protect her sons. She is also hiding secrets that viewers have begun to notice.

One such moment came when Maggie reacted strangely to something she saw in a cupboard at the Barlow house. That brief reaction hinted at something unsettling. More will be revealed in the months ahead.

Bernie Winter has already endured the loss of her son Paul and must now face the death of her son in law Billy. She continues to put others first while burying her own grief. This storyline will explore what happens when her pain can no longer be contained.

The emotional fallout will test Bernie’s relationship with Dev Alahan. Roy Cropper will also be involved as the story unfolds. It marks a powerful and emotional start to 2026 for Bernie.

Alongside the flash forward, more episodes will break away from traditional soap storytelling. The production team sees this as an exciting way to tell stories with greater depth. These episodes remain grounded in character and emotion.

Episodes like the one focusing on Todd and Theo feel raw and intimate. The audience is invited into their private space in a way that feels authentic. This approach allows for deeper storytelling.

Coronation Street will continue experimenting with structure while staying true to its identity. The goal is to remain relevant, fresh, and distinctive. At its heart, strong storytelling will always come first.