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The actress recently became the latest signing of the drama's series producer Gavin Blyth, who has been steering an ongoing revamp of the programme since taking office in January 2009.
In December, Blyth explained that he felt proud of a ratings boost which started after his changes began to play out on screen. A month later, the show received some of its best viewing figures in years as the climax to the Wylde-Lamb saga aired.
Speaking to DS about Emmerdale's change in fortunes, Shaw commented: "It's stepped its game up so much in the last year. No longer should it be the underdog!"
She continued: "There's such an excitement buzzing through the studio at the minute because the programme's been doing so well. You can really feel the atmosphere."
Shaw will be seen making her debut as Edna Birch's (Shirley Stelfox) flirtatious granddaughter Eve Jenson next week.
> Click here to read our interview with Suzanne Shaw
