Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Kirsty McCormack

Coronation Street fans emotional as Deirdre Barlow 'returns' in unexpected scene

Coronation Street fans were feeling emotional on Wednesday evening as Deirdre Barlow made a brief return.

The first of a double helping of the ITV soap began with Amy Barlow opening presents on the morning of her 18th birthday.

The teenager was delighted when she realised her dad Steve McDonald and mum Tracy had bought her a dress she wanted.

"I love it!" Amy (Elle Mulvaney) declared as Steve (Simon Gregson) replied sarcastically: "I should think you do after you sent me the link for it!"

Moments later she asked her folks: "Can I open Grandad's?" referring to another birthday present.

Reading out the label, she said: "Dear Amy, you have 10 driving lessons all paid for!" before opening the gift.

The present was a photo frame containing an old family photo, which included Ken's late wife Deidre.

"Grandma Deidre, I just wish she were here," Amy said as she looked at the picture.

"She would be so proud of you," Tracy replied, before adding: "Oh Steve, can you believe our baby is 18?"

Corrie fans were clearly feeling emotional at being reminded of Deidre and took to Twitter to comment.

One person posted: "omg deidre mentions. can't believe amy is 18!! #corrie."

Another tweeted: Awww Deirdre #corrie," alongside a crying face emoji.

A third person said: "Oh god that photo almost had me crying #corrie."

And a fourth soap fan added: "I miss Deirdre #Corrie."

Anne Kirkbride played the role of Deirdre for 42 years before sadly dying in January 2015 (ITV)

Anne Kirkbride played the role of Deidre for 42 years, but sadly the actress passed away in January 2015 at the age of 60 of breast cancer.

Anne's funeral was held on January 27 2015m, in a private ceremony and many of her Corrie co-stars were in attendance.

At the 20th National Television Awards, held two days after her death, her on-screen partner and close friend from Coronation Street, William Roache, paid tribute to Anne during the ceremony.

Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:30pm and 8:30pm on ITV.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.