ITV Coronation Street’s Sally Ann Matthews issues statement following soap axe 39 years after debut
Coronation Street stalwart Sally Ann Matthews has announced her exit from the ITV show.
The Jenny Bradley actress, 54, has been a staple character on the soap on and off since 1986, but will soon be waving goodbye to Weatherfield.
Taking to Instagram on Friday, August 1, Matthews confirmed her time on the soap had come to an end following a 10-year stint.
Sharing a snap of herself in character as Jenny, she wrote: “I was supposed to stay for five months but ended up doing an extra ten years because I loved it so much!
“It’s time though to play those parts I always hoped I would when I’d ‘grown up.’ Thanks Trafford Wharf Rd for the memories and endless laughter x.”
A current plotline in the soap has seen Jenny meeting a potential new love interest, but it seems there could be issues ahead.
Matthews made her debut on the soap as Jenny back in 1986 and remained in the role until 1991, briefly returning two years later.
However, it seems her latest, decade-long stint might be her last following the actress’ poignant post.
Fans have flooded the post with comments, admitting they are “gutted” to hear the news.
One wrote: “You’re leaving the cobbles? There’s going to be nobody left.”
“I wish they would leave legacy characters alone, first Sue Devaney, now you… We are going to end up stuck with a load of newbies we care nothing about, for the sake of the budget,” a second penned.
“You’ve been absolutely wonderful!” a third enthused, while another wrote: “You know how much we absolutely adore you, absolutely gutted to see you go. thank YOU for all the memories, you have my support forever and ever.”
“One of my favourite characters. She is Corrie old school honesty and humour and will be missed,” someone else added.
Another commented: “Aww no Sally [crying face emoji] you are one of the characters that brings the comedy to Corrie.” (sic)
While details of Matthews’ exit haven’t been confirmed, it comes amid a flurry of recent cast exits, with many having been axed.
Executive Producer Kate Brooks, who warned late last year: “There are a few exits this year, and some unexpected ones that will send shockwaves.”
Helen Worth ended her remarkable 50-year run as Gail Platt during the Christmas period.
Sue Cleaver also departed from her role long-term role as Eileen Grimshaw, which she had played for more than two decades.
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Colson Smith also left the cobbles earlier this year, after 14 years in the role of PC Craig Tinker.
Smith, who joined the long-running series in 2011 when he was just 11 years old, made his departure in May.