Fact-Checking Policy

Last reviewed: 17 September 2026

What we check

Our fact-checking process focuses on the details most likely to affect a reader’s understanding: full names, actor and character identities, dates, episode times, storyline history, quotations, relationship descriptions and whether a development has actually been confirmed.

Source comparison

For current news, we look for the closest available primary source. This may include an ITV schedule, an official programme announcement, a verified cast account, an interview or a broadcaster press release. When only secondary reporting is available, we consider the publication’s proximity to the information and seek confirmation from another reliable source where practical.

Schedules and fast-changing details

Television schedules can change at short notice. Schedule articles should state the date to which the information applies and avoid implying that a normal broadcast pattern guarantees a particular episode. Readers should confirm last-minute changes using the broadcaster’s current listing.

Rumours and predictions

Viewer theories, tabloid claims and social-media discussion are not treated as confirmed facts. If a report cannot be independently verified, the article should use clear language such as “reported”, “not confirmed” or “speculation”. Predictions should be identified as analysis, not inside knowledge.

Historical character information

Character histories are checked for chronology, family relationships, marriages, exits, returns and the actor who played the role. Long-running serials can contain retcons and conflicting descriptions, so we give priority to on-screen events and official programme material.

Final review

Before publication, the writer or editor rereads the article for unsupported certainty, mismatched dates, misspelled names and statements that need attribution. Links are checked where practical. If reliable sources disagree, that disagreement should be explained instead of hidden.