Coronation Street Dominates 2026 Inside Soap Awards
The long-running British soap secured eight wins, including Best Soap for the third consecutive year, at the fan-voted ceremony.
Coronation Street emerged as the leading recipient at the 2026 Inside Soap Awards, clinching a total of eight accolades. The annual ceremony, held in Manchester, saw over 110,000 votes cast by fans to determine the winners.
For the third year in a row, Coronation Street was honored with the Best Soap Award. The program also secured wins for Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Storyline, Best Partnership, Best Villain, Best Exit, and Best Young Performer.
The storyline depicting Todd's torment and abuse by his partner Theo was recognized with the Best Storyline award. Gareth Pierce received the Best Actor award for his role, while James Cartwright, who portrayed the abuser Theo Silverton, was named Best Villain. Daniel Brocklebank's character Billy Mayhew's near-death experience, orchestrated by Theo, led to the Best Exit award for Brocklebank.
Inside Soap editor Sarah Ellis commented on the significance of the storyline, stating that the "heartbreaking story of Todd's abuse at the hands of his partner Theo really struck a chord with the audience." Ellis also noted the continued popularity of the "power couple Lisa and Carla Connor-Swain – aka Swarla."
Vicky Myers was awarded Best Actress for her portrayal of Lisa Connor-Swain, and Alison King won Best Partnership for her role as Carla Connor-Swain. The chemistry and romance between Carla and Lisa were highlighted in the win.
Elsewhere, the Dingle family from Emmerdale received the Best Family award for the seventh consecutive year. Chris Coghill was recognized with both Best Newcomer and Best Comic Performance for his role as Kev Barton.
The crossover episode between Coronation Street and Emmerdale, titled "Corriedale," was named Best Showstopper of 2026. Adam Thomas of Waterloo Road took home the Best Drama Star award for the second time.
Alex Fletcher, known for her roles in Brookside and Hollyoaks, received the Outstanding Achievement award for her four-decade career in soap operas. Emmerdale star Claire King was inducted into the Inside Soap Awards Hall of Fame, celebrating 30 years since her initial wins at the first ceremony.
Diane Parish of EastEnders was named Soap Superstar of 2026 by readers for her performance as Denise Fox, particularly her handling of the character's blood cancer storyline. Ellis noted that the "hard-hitting storylines offer our favourite actors the chance to do some of their most powerful work" and that readers were actively engaging with these performances, contributing to a record number of votes.
The Inside Soap Awards, celebrating its 30th anniversary, recognized the continued strength and impact of British soap operas.