The future of long-time Emmerdale star Chris Chittell, who plays the iconic Eric Pollard has been revealed.

The 77-year-old actor graced our screens 39 years ago and is the longest-serving character on the soap. Chris Chittell appeared on Emmerdale as Eric Pollard for the first time in September 1986.

Ever since then, he has been involved in quite a lot of storylines. And most recently has began tackling the devastating Parkinson’s storyline. This has showed us Eric in a whole different light.

Is Eric Pollard actor Chris Chittell leaving Emmerdale?

Fans have been left fearing for cast cuts as the ITV soaps move to a 2026 power-hour. But it seems Eric will not be one of the faces we wave goodbye to – just yet.

According to The Sun, Chris Chittell has signed a new contract to stay on Emmerdale as Eric Pollard for another year. And this will take him to his huge milestone 40th anniversary.

A source told the outlet: “Chris is Emmerdale and there was no way he wasn’t going to make it to 40 years in the village.

“It’s such a big achievement and he loves being on the show just as much as he did when he first joined.”

The source confirmed there are “big things” headed Eric’s way “well into next year”.

Chris’ new Emmerdale contract for Eric comes months after his off-screen wife Lesley Dunlop left the show as Brenda Walker after 16 years. And many fans wondered if Chris would leave to alongside her. But it seems that is not the case.

Way back in 2017, Chris Chittell actually spoke about the length of time he thinks Eric has left on Emmerdale.

He told The Sun that he thought Pollard only had so many good years left, and he would “hate” to leave.

Chris said: “I can see Pollard heading downhill in five or 10 years’ time. But you’re only ever as good as your last storyline. I have 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. The journey has been wonderful.”

Fans feared Eric was going to die soon

The exciting news that Chris Chittell has signed a new Emmerdale contract as Eric comes as fans feared he was running out of time.

Back in 2023 Eric revealed he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s – a neurological condition. And ever since, we have watched him slowly decline.

However, recently his decline has been getting progressively worse, and he has had to hire Kerry to help him do day-to-day tasks. Despite initially wanting to keep his independence, Eric realised he did need the help.

While the scenes have been heartbreaking for viewers, some even think it paves the way for Val to return in ghost form once more – to help Eric through.

Now that he has reportedly signed a new contract, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for Eric.