Jack Deslandes Emmerdale: A Rising Star in British Soap Writing
When discussing the vibrant world of British soap operas, few names come to mind as quickly as Jack Deslandes Emmerdale. This dynamic writer has quickly made a name for himself in the UK entertainment industry, starting as a Storyliner for Emmerdale before moving on to EastEnders. Known for his ability to craft gripping storylines filled with emotional depth and relatable characters, Deslandes has left a significant mark on the soap opera scene. In this article, we explore the journey of Jack Deslandes, his contributions to Emmerdale, his move to EastEnders, and how his career reflects the evolution of modern television storytelling.
Who is Jack Deslandes?
Jack Deslandes is a British scriptwriter and storyliner who quickly ascended the ranks of UK television. After graduating from the University of Bristol with a Drama, Theatre, Film, and Television degree, Deslandes applied his passion for storytelling to various media projects. He started his career as a freelance videographer and script reader, gaining valuable experience in the television and film industry. His first major break came when he joined Coronation Street as a researcher, where he played an integral role in crafting research for the soap’s 60th year—a year in which the show won a BAFTA.
Deslandes’ career truly took off when he moved to Emmerdale. His work there was instrumental in developing some of the show’s most memorable recent storylines. His talent and hard work did not go unnoticed, and he was soon recruited to work on another British soap staple, EastEnders, as an Assistant Script Editor.
Jack Deslandes and Emmerdale
The Impact on Emmerdale
Jack Deslandes’ tenure at Emmerdale lasted from June 2023 to December 2023, a relatively short period filled with powerful storytelling. As a Storyliner, he was responsible for some of the soap’s most intense and emotionally charged storylines, particularly in Emmerdale’s 50th year. His writing helped the show win the prestigious National Television Award (NTA) for Best Returning Drama in 2024. Key storylines that Deslandes worked on include:
- Matty and Amy’s Wedding: This groundbreaking plotline featured the soap’s first transgender wedding, offering an authentic and moving portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues.
- Chas’ Breast Cancer: In this storyline, Deslandes explores the sensitive and emotional topic of cancer through Chas’ diagnosis and journey, striking a chord with the audience.
- Pollard’s Alzheimer’s: This storyline sensitively depicted the emotional and practical challenges of living with Alzheimer’s, shedding light on an important issue.
- Charity, Mack, and Chloe’s Love Triangle: One of the more dramatic narratives, this story offered viewers intense drama as secrets and betrayals were unveiled.
Deslandes was also involved in other high-profile Emmerdale stories, such as Tom and Belle’s domestic abuse arc and Marlon and Rhona’s fight for their child, Ivy. His ability to craft engaging narratives that balance drama with heartfelt emotion made him an essential part of the Emmerdale team.
EastEnders: The New Chapter
In January 2024, Jack Deslandes moved to EastEnders, another British institution. As an Assistant Script Editor, Deslandes took his talent for drama and human emotion to a new set of characters and storylines. While his role at EastEnders differs from his position at Emmerdale, it offers him new creative challenges and opportunities to grow as a writer and editor.
Deslandes has expressed his excitement about the transition, citing the fast-paced environment of EastEnders as an exciting challenge. He credits his experience at Emmerdale for preparing him to handle the demands of EastEnders, where he now contributes to crafting the show’s signature mix of gritty realism, family drama, and shocking twists. While it’s still early in his career at EastEnders, industry insiders are excited to see how Deslandes’ storytelling will continue to evolve.
Writing Style and Approach
Jack Deslandes’ writing style is characterized by its emotional depth and relatability. Whether dealing with family issues, love triangles, or health crises, Deslandes’ storylines often resonate with viewers because they are grounded in the human experience. His approach to soap writing focuses on the dramatic moments and the smaller, quieter moments that add layers of complexity to his characters.
Deslandes is also known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to work quickly and efficiently under pressure. In an industry with tight deadlines, his ability to create well-rounded, multi-dimensional characters and plots that fit seamlessly into the larger narrative has made him a standout figure in British television.
The Legacy of Jack Deslandes in Emmerdale
While his time at Emmerdale was brief, Jack Deslandes made a lasting impact on the show. His storylines during the soap’s 50th anniversary year were entertaining and dealt with important social issues, such as LGBTQ+ rights and health crises, in a sensitive and nuanced manner. This has contributed to Emmerdale’s continued relevance in the ever-changing world of television.
Deslandes’ work helped the soap gain recognition and win awards, and his legacy at Emmerdale continues even after his departure. Fans of the soap are sure to remember the storylines he crafted for years to come.
What’s Next for Jack Deslandes?
Jack Deslandes shows no signs of slowing down with his new position at EastEnders. As he continues to build on his impressive career, we’ll likely see more groundbreaking and thought-provoking storylines from him. His move to EastEnders opens up new possibilities for creative exploration, and it will be fascinating to see how his unique storytelling voice influences the show’s future direction.
Conclusion
Jack Deslandes has established himself as a talented and versatile writer in the world of British soap operas. From his early work as a researcher for Coronation Street to his role as a Storyliner for Emmerdale and now as an Assistant Script Editor for EastEnders, Deslandes has consistently demonstrated his ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. His work at Emmerdale, particularly during its 50th anniversary year, was instrumental in the show’s continued success, and his move to EastEnders promises even more exciting developments.
As Deslandes continues to build his career, one thing is certain: his contributions to British television will be felt for years. His ability to blend drama with emotional depth and social relevance makes him one of the most promising writers in the industry today. Whether you’re a fan of Emmerdale, EastEnders, or British television in general, keep an eye on Jack Deslandes—his work will continue making waves in soap operas.
