Fans of the long-running ITV soap Emmerdale often wonder about the personal lives of their favourite cast members. When it comes to the actors who bring Eric Pollard and Brenda Walker to life, the answer is a resounding yes. Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop are happily married away from the cameras, sharing a real-life romance that spans well over a decade.
While their characters have experienced plenty of turbulent plotlines, dramatic breakups, and emotional twists in the fictional Yorkshire village, off-screen stability defines the veteran actors' relationship. Their journey from co-stars to husband and wife remains one of British television's most heartwarming behind-the-scenes stories.
How Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop Met on Set
Actors Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop first crossed paths when Lesley joined the cast of Emmerdale in 2008 as Brenda Walker. Chris had already been a fixture on the show for decades, having debuted as the entrepreneurial and often cunning Eric Pollard back in 1986.
Despite working in the same studios, the pair surprisingly hadn't crossed paths during their early careers. Workplace proximity quickly turned into friendship, and friendship blossomed into romance. They kept their relationship relatively low-profile during the initial stages, allowing their bond to grow away from intense tabloid scrutiny.
Their Cornish Wedding and Married Life
After dating for several years, the couple took the next step in their relationship. Chris proposed, and the pair tied the knot in June 2016.
They chose a picturesque setting for their special day, marrying at St Peter's Church in the fishing port of Coverack, Cornwall. The intimate ceremony was attended by close family, friends, and a few familiar Emmerdale co-stars who made the trip down to celebrate with them.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance has been key to their successful marriage. In past interviews, Chris mentioned that they consciously avoid talking about work once they step through their front door at home. Leaving the drama of the dales behind helps keep their personal relationship grounded and separate from their demanding shooting schedules.
Filming Together During the Pandemic
An unexpected perk of being a real-life couple came to light during the global health restrictions. When television productions resumed under strict safety guidelines, romantic and close-contact scenes posed major hurdles for soap opera crews.
Because Chris and Lesley already shared a household, they formed an automatic support bubble. This unique circumstance allowed Eric and Brenda to continue sharing intimate scenes and kissing on screen without breaking production rules or risking the safety of the wider crew. Viewers got an authentic glimpse of their real-life chemistry translating directly onto television screens during a time when other actors had to rely on clever camera angles or social distancing.
Family Background and Prior Relationships
Before finding happiness together, both actors built rich personal and professional lives. Lesley has two daughters, Daisy and Rosie, from her previous relationship with actor Christopher Guard. Chris was previously married to Caroline Hunt, with whom he shares two children, a daughter named Rebecca and a son named Ben.
Blended family life has suited them well, and they enjoy spending their downtime quietly, far removed from the hectic pacing of television production. Chris holds the title of the longest-serving cast member in Emmerdale history, cementing his legacy on the ITV network, while Lesley's extensive television career includes memorable roles in classic British dramas like Where the Heart Is.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Chris Chittell and Lesley Dunlop get married?
The couple got married on June 18, 2016, during a ceremony held at St Peter's Church in Coverack, Cornwall.
Do Eric Pollard and Brenda Walker stay together in Emmerdale?
Their fictional relationship has faced numerous trials, including dramatic breakups, health scares, and shifting loyalties, keeping viewers guessing about their on-screen future.
How long has Chris Chittell been on Emmerdale?
Chris joined the cast of the soap opera in 1986, making him the longest-serving continuous actor on the program.
Do they have children together?
They don't share any children together, but they each have two children from their previous relationships.
