Marking its 65th anniversary this month, Coronation Street, the longest-running TV soap opera globally, might witness the demise of a significant character, based on circulating rumors.
The iconic show, affectionately known as ‘Corriedale,’ is set to feature a groundbreaking crossover with Emmerdale in a New Year special, a first in television history.
Throughout its history, Coronation Street has propelled actors like Bill Roache as Ken Barlow and Barbara Knox as Rita Tanner to stardom, while also welcoming various celebrities onto its cobbled streets, from Suranne Jones to Dame Joanna Lumley and singer Michael Ball.
Reflecting on the show’s evolution since its premiere on December 9, 1960, The Mirror revisits some of the notable personalities who have graced Coronation Street over the years.
Although renowned for her portrayal of Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous, Joanna Lumley also charmed viewers as Elaine Perkins, Ken Barlow’s romantic interest, during an eight-episode stint in 1973, rejecting his marriage proposal and labeling him a “provincial twit.”
Before gaining fame with Phoenix Nights, Peter Kay appeared in Coronation Street in 1997 as a shopfitter and later returned in 2004 as Eric Gartside, sharing a memorable encounter with Shelley Unwin and Jack Duckworth.
Prior to his Oscar-winning role in Gandhi, Sir Ben Kingsley portrayed a fireman on Corrie, attending a call at Len Fairclough’s residence in 1967, reminiscing fondly about his brief but impactful appearance on the show.
Although remembered for his roles in Porridge and Rising Damp, Richard Beckinsale graced Coronation Street as PC Wilcox in a single episode in 1969, debuting by arresting Ena Sharples during a protest outside Weatherfield Town Hall.
Celebrated actor Sir Ian McKellen appeared on the show for ten episodes in 2005 as Mel Hutchwright, a “dodgy novelist” who captured the hearts of Weatherfield residents before his true intentions were uncovered by Ken Barlow.
Making his TV debut on the cobbles as a fireman in 1967, Sir Patrick Stewart credits Coronation Street with kickstarting his illustrious acting career, leading to iconic roles like Captain Picard and Professor X.
In the late 1960s, Martin Shaw appeared on Coronation Street as Robert Croft, a hippy commune leader, before achieving fame with roles in The Professionals and Judge John Deed.
Known for her comedic talents as Hyacinth Bucket, Patricia Routledge briefly starred on Coronation Street as cafe owner Sylvia Snape before