ITV has announced Sophie Roper as the new Producer for Emmerdale, effective immediately. Roper will share the helm with Laura Shaw, assuming creative responsibility for the beloved soap’s storytelling, casting, and production processes.
Having stepped into the role back in April, Roper replaces Kate Brooks, who moved on to produce Coronation Street. Roper, previously the Story Producer for Emmerdale, will now report to Executive Producer Iain MacLeod and John Whiston, Managing Director of Continuing Drama and Head of ITV in the North, alongside Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair-Jones.
“Sophie is a real talent and has a natural eye for a big, bold story,” said Iain MacLeod. “She is the perfect person to maintain Emmerdale’s tradition of challenging, exciting narratives. I am thrilled that she has made the well-deserved step up into her new role. With her as a more senior part of the very talented team in Leeds, viewers will be in for an engrossing, exhilarating, and emotional ride.”
Roper, a lifelong soap fan, expressed her excitement about her new role. “I feel privileged to be part of such an iconic and well-loved programme,” she said. “I’m thrilled to be taking the show forward as Producer, alongside an incredibly talented and dedicated team. Emmerdale truly is a special place both on and offscreen, and as we embark on this next chapter, I look forward to bringing more bold and groundbreaking drama to the Dales.”
Roper began her career in serial drama at Coronation Street as a trainee Location Manager before transitioning into the editorial department as a Storyliner. She played a key role in developing storylines for Coronation Street’s live episode in September 2015, marking ITV’s 60th anniversary.
During her tenure at Emmerdale, Roper has been instrumental in crafting some of its most memorable storylines, including Pierce’s coercive control over Rhona, Maya Stepney’s grooming of Jacob, Charity’s flashback episode, Faith Dingle’s cancer storyline, and Meena Jutla’s murderous spree.
“After a brilliant tenure as Story Producer, we’re thrilled Sophie will be joining Laura to Produce Emmerdale,” commented Huw Kennair-Jones. “She brings a wealth of creative storytelling and passion for the show. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the residents of the village—it’s safe to say there won’t be a dull moment!”
Emmerdale continues on ITV1 at 7.30pm
You must be logged in to post a comment.