Emmerdale lands iconic TV icon for Christmas storyline cameo

Emmerdale is gearing up for a star-studded Christmas as a major TV icon is set to make a surprise cameo in the ITV soap. Former Neighbours heartthrob and Aussie legend Jason Donovan, who shot to fame in the 80s as Scott Robinson opposite Kylie Minogue, has filmed scenes that will air in December - and he will be playing himself.

The singer and actor secretly headed to the village set earlier this month for top-secret filming, which saw him pop up inside the iconic Woolpack pub to surprise Lydia Dingle, played by Karen Blick. The scenes form part of a festive storyline that sees superfan Lydia devastated after missing out on seeing Jason in concert, only for the villagers to step in and deliver the ultimate surprise. A source told Express.co.uk: "Everyone was really excited Jason was up for taking part.

"It was really fun, and Jason was a real pro, he enjoyed the cameo." Jason's guest role comes as his career continues to thrive both on stage and screen.

The 57-year-old is currently preparing for his Doin' Fine Encore Tour, which kicks off in early 2026 and will celebrate his decades-long music career with shows across the UK and Ireland.

Away from music, Jason has remained a familiar face on British TV, having appeared on This Morning, The One Show and Loose Women in the past year.

He also returned to acting with a role in Doctor Who: Tales of the TARDIS before heading back to soap country for his Emmerdale appearance.

And the showbiz talent clearly runs in the family - Jason's daughter, Jemma Donovan has followed in his footsteps, starring in both Neighbours and Hollyoaks.

Jason's cameo adds to a busy few months for Emmerdale, which has recently announced three standalone special episodes set to air this autumn.

One will finally unravel the mysterious disappearance of Bear Wolf, the estranged father of Paddy Kirk.

Another special will follow April Dingle as she faces a terrifying ordeal at the hands of gangmaster Celia.

The third episode will shine a spotlight on fan favourite Robert Sugden, teasing a dramatic twist for the character's legacy.

Jason has made regular appearances on UK television, including This Morning, The One Show, Loose Women and various radio interviews, often promoting his tours while reflecting on his early career and life in Australia.

At home, Jason has spoken openly about enjoying family life in London with his wife Angela Malloch, whom he married in 2008, and their three children.

He often shares glimpses of life off-stage on social media, from behind-the-scenes tour snaps to family moments and charity support, particularly mental health awareness, a cause close to him after his early struggles with fame.