The stars of Emmerdale may not have swept the trophies at this year’s British Soap Awards, but what they did win was just as powerful — the hearts of fans, unforgettable memories, and a dazzling night of unity, laughter, and resilience. In a glittering evening where television’s most beloved soaps collided under one roof, the Emmerdale family showed the world that win or lose, they’re a force of joy, fashion, and fierce friendship.
The energy was electric as the cast descended upon the red carpet. With the awards absent from the calendar last year, anticipation and excitement surged through the air. For many, it was their first taste of soapland’s most glamorous night. Cameras flashed, heels clicked, and behind every sparkling smile was a story — a year of dramatic performances, on-screen heartbreak, and backstage camaraderie.
Beth Cordingly, the brilliant actress behind Ruby, stepped into the spotlight, radiant and graceful. Nominated for her first award, Beth’s debut on the awards carpet was as memorable as her scenes in the Dales. Wearing elegance like armor, she smiled for the cameras before heading inside, her Instagram later filled with snippets of glam prep and laughter with co-star Will Ash, her on-screen husband. “Thank you for all your support,” she wrote, her gratitude shining brighter than the sequins on her gown.
It wasn’t just the veterans soaking in the moment. Fresh faces like Bradley Riches, known to fans as Lewis Barton, made waves in his custom Cedre suit, adorned with a bold, oversized flower petal. Daring, different, and totally unforgettable — Bradley’s look turned heads and sent fashion blogs into overdrive. He may not have had years on the show under his belt, but his entrance made it clear: he belongs.
Olivia Bromley, who plays Dawn, nearly stole the night in a white strapless gown that was nothing short of a modern fairytale. Gone was the troubled village girl — in her place stood a screen siren, her hair cascading in soft curls and her smile flashing with quiet confidence. Meanwhile, Amy Walsh, aka Tracy Metcalfe, stunned in a flowing blue gown, though her night included a real-life wardrobe twist. As she revealed later with a laugh on Instagram, a minor fashion malfunction nearly derailed her evening — but thanks to co-star Natalie Ann Jamieson, modesty was saved, and the party went on.
Inside the venue, Emmerdale’s Instagram was alive with action: snaps of stars holding seat cards, backstage giggles, and heartwarming tributes to the real stars behind the lens. Mike Plant, longtime Emmerdale cameraman, received the Tony Warren Award, a nod to the crew members who bring the drama to life. It was a moment of humble celebration, a reminder that even in a world of glitter and gowns, it’s teamwork that makes the magic happen.
The emotional high point of the night came when young talent Amelia Flanagan, who plays April Windsor, took home the coveted Best Young Performer award. Her storyline this year — filled with raw emotion, teenage isolation, and triumph over trauma — captured the hearts of the nation. Competing even against her real-life brother Will (from Coronation Street), Amelia’s victory was a family affair, both on and off the screen. As she accepted her award, the room lit up with applause, her Emmerdale castmates beaming with pride.
Yet, beyond the awards, it was the vibe of the night that lingered in memory. Shebz Miah, the charming newcomer playing Kammy, snapped selfies with co-stars Jack Downham (Noah) and Joe-Warren Plant (Jacob), cheekily dubbing themselves the “boy band no one asked for — No Direction.” Meanwhile, Zoe Henry (Rhona Goskirk) struck a pose with drink in hand, a vision of elegance and fun. In photo after photo, the cast glowed — not just because of the lights, but because of the bond they shared.
And even those absent from the screen made an impact. Fans were thrilled to spot Karen Blick (Lydia Dingle), whose recent on-screen absence had caused concern. Her presence at the awards was not just a delight, but a silent reassurance — Lydia might be gone for now, but she’s far from forgotten.
The night ended with smiles, champagne toasts, and promises of more drama, more heartache, and more brilliance from the Dales. While EastEnders may have taken home the lion’s share of trophies, Emmerdale walked away with something just as valuable — a night of togetherness, of celebration, and a powerful reminder of why it continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of viewers.
Because in the world of soaps, it’s not just the scripts that matter — it’s the people behind them, their passion, and their presence. And on this unforgettable night, Emmerdale proved that even in the shadows of bigger wins, they shine just as bright.
