Former Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh has said she wouldn't take the iconic part of Hayley Cropper if she were offered it today.
The actor shot to fame playing the first transgender character to appear in a British soap.
Julie Hesmondhalgh played the part of Hayley for 16 years but said, had she been offered the part today, she would not have taken it.
Speaking to presenter Lorraine Kelly on Good Morning Britain, Julie praised trans actors who are "coming through now" being cast in trans roles.
Julie said: "I feel really strongly about that.
"When I took that role in 1998, it was a different world... the way we talked about trans people, there was very little understanding and empathy for trans people.
"... All I could do at the time was to reassure the different trans groups... I just said... I'll be your ally."
She added: "It wasn't why I left but it was at the right time.
"... All these amazing trans actors are coming through now... it's wonderful to see this blossoming."
Lorraine said Julie had helped pave the way for the changes in the industry which have lead to more trans visibility.
*Good Morning Britain airs on ITV from 6am each weekday
