Emmerdale Star Lisa Riley Admits Job Uncertainty: ‘We’re All Chess Pieces!’

Lisa Riley, best known for playing Mandy Dingle on Emmerdale, has spoken out about the uncertainty surrounding job security in the soap industry. With recent announcements that both Emmerdale and Coronation Street will be cutting down their weekly episodes due to budget constraints, cast members are left wondering about their futures.

Riley revealed that no one in the cast ever feels completely secure in their role, explaining that they are all “chess pieces” on the producer’s board. Decisions about storylines and character arcs can change in an instant, making job stability unpredictable. She acknowledged that while the industry is tough, it’s also what keeps the show fresh and engaging for viewers.

Despite concerns over job losses, Riley remains passionate about Emmerdale and deeply appreciates the support from fans. She shared that people often approach her in public to express their love for the show, something she finds incredibly rewarding. However, she also highlighted the demanding nature of working on a soap, where filming schedules are relentless. “ITV makes big dramas that air over several weeks, but we film five episodes every week. The hamster wheel never stops,” she remarked.

Looking ahead, Riley teased an upcoming major storyline involving Mandy Dingle—a dramatic crash involving 18 characters that is set to shake Emmerdale to its core. With lives hanging in the balance, the question remains: will Mandy survive? The intense storyline promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats, proving once again why Emmerdale remains a must-watch.