1990 was Emmerdale's 19th year. production was overseen by producer Stuart Doughty.

102 episodes were broadcast during the year. Storylines included David Hughes' attempts to split up Kate and Joe Sugden, Elsa Feldmann falling pregnant by boyfriend Nick Bates, Pete Whiteley's hit and run death, the beginnings of Chris Tate and Kathy Merrick's relationship and Amos Brearly's stroke.