Emmerdale topped Tuesday's soap ratings (August 25) with Ross Barton's return from the dead, overnight figures show.5.34m (28.1%) tuned in at 7pm on ITV and 320k (1.6%) on +1 as an hour-long episode ended with the revelation that Ross is still alive and recovering in hospital following his violent clash with his brother Pete.
Inevitably, EastEnders took a dip due to its clash with Emmerdale and the rival soap's head-start, bringing in 4.45m (22.2%) at 7.30pm on BBC One as Shabnam caught Masood and Carmel in bed together.
During the 30-minute head-to-head period itself, Emmerdale was down to 5.17m (25.9%) - suggesting that the soap clash may have dented both shows on the night. BBC Three's repeat screening of EastEnders had 697k (4.2%) at 10pm.
Holby City attracted 4.04m (20.6%) at 8pm on BBC One as Guy was confronted by a face from his past.
Hollyoaks entertained 883k (5.2%) at 6.30pm on Channel 4 as the battle for baby Curtis led to a huge car chase and crash (+1: 58k / 0.3%), while E4's first look followed with 576k (3.2%) at 7pm and 137k (0.7%) on +1 as the Gloved Hand Killer struck again.
Neighbours interested 692k (8.7%) at 1.45pm and 662k (5.1%) at 5.30pm on Channel 5 as Toadie was left paralysed following his shock bouncy castle accident.
Doctors aired to 1.31m (16.4%) at 1.45pm on BBC One as the police were ambushed while transporting Weston to a safe house.
Home and Away managed 268k (3.4%) at 1.15pm and 561k (3.6%) at 6pm on Channel 5, while 5*'s first look had 357k (2.1%) at 6.30pm.