It’s official: Emmerdale just landed a festive showstopper! Music and soap icon Jason Donovan is returning to UK television screens this Christmas in a special cameo guaranteed to light up the Woolpack—and possibly open new doors for the beloved Aussie star.

Jason, 57, will make a surprise appearance in a holiday episode of Emmerdale, performing his classic 1989 hit “Too Many Broken Hearts” for none other than superfan Lydia Dingle, played by Karen Blick. The performance unfolds inside the village pub, turning an ordinary Christmas gathering into an unforgettable event.

“It was a great day filming,” Jason shared in an interview with HELLO! magazine. “There’s a character called Lydia who’s a big fan of mine, and I end up singing at the Woolpack. It brought back a lot of memories.”

Back to His Soap Roots

Jason is no stranger to soaps. He became a household name as Scott Robinson in over 400 episodes of Neighbours between 1986 and 1989. This festive Emmerdale cameo marks a nostalgic full circle for fans who grew up watching him in Ramsay Street—and hearing his chart-topping pop hits on repeat.

Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw praised Jason’s performance, noting the joy it brought to the cast and crew. “We were delighted Jason agreed to join us. There was a real buzz on set. I hope viewers enjoy the episode as much as we did filming it.”

More Than a Cameo?

The cameo has reignited something in the actor and singer. “I feel I’ve got a little bit more to give, artistically,” Jason said. After this brush with Emmerdale, he’s eyeing more TV drama roles—and fans are already speculating about where he might pop up next.

Though acting remains a passion, Jason is clear about his priorities. “Work is important, but so is time to enjoy life,” he said. Married to Angela Malloch since 2008 and father to three children, including actress Jemma Donovan, Jason knows what really matters.

Still, he hasn’t ruled out more screen time: “It’s a great journey,” he said of his life and career. “I haven’t cracked parenthood either—it’s a long-distance run, not a sprint.”