Former Emmerdale and Coronation Street Star Ian Kelsey Reveals Doubts Over Corriedale Crossover
Ian Kelsey, who played Dave Glover in Emmerdale and Vinny Ashford in Coronation Street, has explained why he was against the Corriedale crossover and how different the two sets felt.
Former Emmerdale and Coronation Street actor Ian Kelsey has revealed he wasn’t entirely convinced by ITV’s decision to bring its two biggest soaps together for Corriedale.
The actor, who appeared in both programmes during his career, admitted he struggled with the idea of Weatherfield and the Dales suddenly sharing the same fictional world.
Speaking to BANG Showbiz on behalf of Heart Bingo Online, Ian explained: “I was a bit against the idea, actually. Because when a Coronation Street character comes in from work and turns on the TV, do they watch Emmerdale? That’s what I couldn’t get my head around.”
A Crossover That Changed Both Soaps
Broadcast on 5 January 2026, Corriedale brought characters from both shows together in a devastating road accident following Debbie and Ronnie’s wedding.
The special resulted in Billy’s death after a minibus explosion, leaving lasting consequences for characters on both sides of the Pennines.
Ian has a unique perspective on the crossover, having played Dave in Emmerdale from 1994 to 1996 before joining Coronation Street as Vinny between 2016 and 2017.
Ian Kelsey Admits He Misses Soap Life
Despite questioning the crossover concept, Ian spoke warmly about his experiences working on both programmes.
He recalled a more sociable atmosphere during his earlier Emmerdale years, before mobile phones and social media became part of everyday life, while describing the Coronation Street set as noticeably quieter.
Reflecting on his time in soap, he said: “I loved it. I really did. I loved the 12-hour days. I loved being part of a team, the crew and the friendships you form.”
He added: “I really miss it.”
Coronation Street and Emmerdale continue on ITV1 and ITVX.
You can keep up with what is coming next in the Dales with our latest Emmerdale previews, and both Emmerdale and Coronation Street air on ITV1 and ITVX.
Images: ITV.
