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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Entertainment
Jessica Knibbs

Stephanie Beacham set to break hearts again as she returns to Coronation Street

Stephanie Beacham returns to the cobbles as Martha Fraser 12 years after her first appearance

(Picture: ITV/Coronation Street)

Stephanie Beacham will make a triumphant return to the cobblestones of Coronation Street after a 12-year hiatus.

The 75-year-old actress from Barnet is known for her television roles, including in hit BBC drama Tenko, about a woman’s Japanese internment camp during the war.

But it was her glamorous turn as Sable Colby in the ABC series Dynasty, including its spin-off The Colbys, that made her a household name on both sides of the Atlantic.

Coronation Street shared a small peek of the actress’s surprise comeback, teasing fans with her new dramatic storyline.

Stephanie Beacham on Coronation Street

Back in 2008, it was announced that Stephanie will be joining the cast of ITV’s Coronation Street, where she played the character Martha Fraser.

Martha was the love interest of Ken Barlow and graced the screen from January 26, 2009, until May 4, 2009.

Once again, it seems the character, Martha, is embroiled in a new love triangle, making a shocking return to Weatherfield after her previous infamous affair with Ken Barlow (Bill Roache) while he was still married to Deirdre (Anne Kirkbride).

Coronation Street storyline with Stephanie Beacham

As fans are aware, Ken has been attending rehearsals for the upcoming community centre play.

In new scenes, Ken, alongside Nigel (Richard Ellis), are told a new actress friend is due to replace Mary Taylor (Patti Clare).

It is later decided a better option is to get someone in to help coach Mary rather than replace her.

This is when Nigel, unbeknownst to Ken, suggests his ex, Martha.

The storyline is set for fireworks, as Nigel introduces his friend to the group, with Ken finally clocking his blast-from-the-past.

“I am delighted that Martha has returned to Weatherfield. It is an absolute joy to be working with Bill again,” Beacham recently said.

While Loache added, “When I found out that Martha was going to make a return I was thrilled, but I fear heartache may be round the corner once more for Ken now he has found himself in another love triangle.”

To find out whether Martha feels the same towards Ken and how he will react when he sees Martha after all these years, tune in to ITV1 on Wednesday, November 23.

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