Emmerdale: Cast appreciation show ahead of 10,000th episode

Emmerdale cast members have praised the show’s impact ahead of its 10,000th episode.

The ITV soap opera, which is filmed in Leeds, first aired on 16 October 1972.

It was originally ordered for only 26 episodes, but the 10,000th episode will air later.

Actor Ash Palmisciano, who plays Emmerdale’s first transgender character Matty Barton, said: “To play such a current role is amazing and something I’ve always wanted to do.”

The 34-year-old, who joined the cast six years ago, told BBC Radio Leeds: “It still feels a bit surreal now.”

The show airs six nights a week, attracting an average audience of 4.1 million and screens in seven countries, according to head of production Nader Mabadi.

It is filmed at various locations in Leeds, including the Harewood Estate and studios on Kirkstall Road and Burley Road.

“It’s about celebrating Yorkshire, celebrating the people and addressing real stories, issues and concerns,” Mabadi said.

One recent story reflected that baby Evan Fletcher was diagnosed with leukemia, while others included domestic abuse and depression.

Claire King, who plays Kim Tate in the show, told BBC Radio York: “This is what happens in real life.

“Emmerdale is very good at following everything and getting a true reflection of what’s going on.”

Palmisciano said the cast was “lucky” to be able to tell “real stories” that “happen to real people.”

“It’s just such a privilege,” he added.

Mark Charnock, who played Marlon Dingle in Emmerdale for 27 years, described working on the show as a “very long run of luck” and the 350-strong team is “like a family”.

“I wouldn’t have changed a minute of it,” he added.