For nearly four decades, Emmerdale has never been the same without the unmistakable presence of Eric Pollard. Played by the talented and beloved Chris Chittell, Eric has long stood as a pillar of the village—a character woven into the very fabric of the show. And now, as the soap hurtles toward its 2026 milestone, fans have been holding their breath, wondering: is it time to say goodbye?

The short answer? Not yet.

At 77 years old, Chris Chittell has officially signed a brand-new contract, securing his place in Emmerdale until at least his stunning 40th anniversary on the show in 2026. The announcement comes at a time when rumors of cast cuts have spread like wildfire, sparked by ITV’s upcoming power-hour plans. But thankfully, it seems Pollard will remain at the heart of the village—for now.

This news is a relief to many viewers, especially after watching Eric’s recent, heartbreaking health journey. In a deeply moving storyline introduced in 2023, Eric was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease—a progressive neurological condition that has forced the proud and often stubborn character to confront his own vulnerability.

The scenes in which Eric opens up about his diagnosis, tries to maintain independence, and eventually seeks help from Kerry have been some of the most powerful in recent Emmerdale history. And they’ve reminded us why Chris Chittell is such a vital part of the show. He doesn’t just play Pollard. He is Pollard.

But with each episode showing a little more of Eric’s decline, viewers naturally feared the worst. Would the show write him out with a tragic death? Was this the beginning of a slow and painful goodbye?

Adding fuel to the speculation was the exit of Chris’s real-life wife, Lesley Dunlop, who played Brenda Walker. Her departure after 16 years left many wondering if Chris would follow suit and step away from the spotlight. After all, it’s no secret that soap actors often bow out together after long tenures—especially when their real lives are so closely tied to their fictional worlds.

However, Chris’s commitment to continuing in the role offers not just reassurance, but hope for something more: a meaningful exploration of aging, illness, and endurance on screen.

The fact that Pollard is staying isn’t just a headline. It’s a declaration that Emmerdale is committed to portraying real struggles with empathy and nuance. The Parkinson’s storyline hasn’t been used for shock value or short-term drama. It’s a slow-burning, deeply emotional journey that will now continue into 2026, giving fans more time with a character they’ve grown up with.

And it’s not just the past that matters here—it’s the future.

Sources close to the production have hinted at “big things” for Eric in the coming year. Whether that means revisiting old relationships, surprising alliances, or even a supernatural reunion with his late wife Val in ghost form (a fan-favorite theory), we know one thing: Emmerdale won’t waste a single minute of Chris Chittell’s continued presence.

Back in 2017, Chris reflected on his time as Pollard, saying: “You’re only ever as good as your last storyline. I’ve always said that when the writers stop writing for Pollard, I’d leave. And although I’d hate it, I would shake everyone’s hand and say thank you very much.”

Well, thankfully, that handshake won’t be happening any time soon.

Instead, fans can prepare for a year of emotional depth, character evolution, and—hopefully—moments of joy in the face of Eric’s difficult journey. We may see him grow weaker, but his spirit remains strong. And with the love of the village behind him, there’s every chance Emmerdale will use this time to show the beauty of resilience even as the clock ticks.

As we look ahead to 2026 and the celebration of Chris Chittell’s 40 years on the show, one thing becomes clear: Eric Pollard isn’t just a soap character. He’s a symbol of Emmerdale’s soul. Through betrayal, redemption, heartbreak, and healing, he has remained the constant thread that ties generations of fans together.

So no, Eric isn’t leaving. Not yet.

But when that moment eventually comes—whether in one year or five—it won’t be marked with silence. It will be marked with tribute, with memories, and with a village full of love for the man who gave so much to it.

Until then, we’ll watch, we’ll support, and we’ll celebrate every scene, every word, every smile from Eric Pollard—because they are a gift we’re lucky to still have.