The Untold Story of the 23 Coronation Street Stars Who Have Passed Away

Coronation Street has long held a special place in British hearts. Since its debut in 1960, this iconic soap opera has captivated audiences with its unforgettable characters and gripping storylines. Sadly, many of the beloved actors who brought these characters to life have passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans. In this article, we pay tribute to 23 stars of Coronation Street who are no longer with us, exploring their lives, careers, and the profound impact they had on the show.

Anne Kirkbride (Deirdre Barlow)

One of the most iconic characters in the history of Coronation Street, Anne Kirkbride’s portrayal of Deirdre Barlow made her a household name. Known for her complex relationships and emotional depth, Deirdre’s struggles mirrored Kirkbride’s own personal battles. Despite enduring a tumultuous marriage and health issues, she remained a beloved figure until her death in 2015 at the age of 60, following a battle with breast cancer.

 

Johnny Briggs (Mike Baldwin)
Johnny Briggs, who portrayed the charming yet complicated Mike Baldwin, played an integral role in Coronation Street from 1974 to 2006. Behind the scenes, Briggs faced personal hardships, including divorce and the tragic loss of his son. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy marked by memorable performances and a strong presence on screen.
William Tarmy (Jack Duckworth)
Known for his portrayal of the lovable, albeit flawed, Jack Duckworth, William Tarmy won the hearts of fans for over three decades. Despite facing health issues and a turbulent personal life, including heart problems, Tarmy’s portrayal of Jack remains unforgettable. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 71.
Betty Driver (Betty Turpin)

Betty Driver, who portrayed the sassy Betty Turpin, was a cornerstone of Coronation Street from 1969 to 2011. While Betty’s on-screen persona was full of wit and humor, Driver’s real life was filled with personal struggles, including financial difficulties. She passed away in 2011 at the age of 91 due to pneumonia.

Liz Dawn (Vera Duckworth) Another beloved Coronation Street character, Liz Dawn’s portrayal of Vera Duckworth resonated with audiences for her humor and relatable family struggles. Despite health challenges and the ups and downs of her personal life, Dawn’s legacy continues to live on. She passed away in 2017 at the age of 77 after battling empyema.
Roy Barraclough (Alec Gilroy) Roy Barraclough’s portrayal of Alec Gilroy, the charming but occasionally shady theatrical agent, was another iconic role in the show. Despite personal hardships, including a troubled marriage and the loss of family members, Barraclough’s career in theater and television remained strong. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 81.
Dorine Kio (Cona Whitt) A fixture of Coronation Street from 1960 to 1975, Dorine Kio’s character Cona Whitt brought joy to many viewers. Her later years were marked by personal struggles, including a troubled marriage. She passed away in 2017 at the age of 93.
Brian Mosley (Alf Roberts) Brian Mosley’s portrayal of Alf Roberts, the local businessman with a strong moral compass, made him an enduring figure in the soap. Mosley’s personal life was filled with heartache, including divorce and the pressures of fame. He died in 2019 at the age of 67 after a sudden heart attack.
Geoffrey Hughes (Eddie Yates) As Eddie Yates, Geoffrey Hughes brought both humor and heart to Coronation Street. Off-screen, Hughes faced personal challenges, including battling alcoholism and multiple failed marriages. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 68 after battling prostate cancer.
Jean Alexander (Hilda Ogden) Jean Alexander’s portrayal of Hilda Ogden, one of Coronation Street’s most iconic characters, left an indelible mark on the show’s legacy. Despite being adored by fans, Alexander’s personal life was marked by a series of failed relationships and a sense of quiet grief. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 90.

These 10 actors represent just a fraction of the talent that has graced the iconic set of Coronation Street. While their roles may have ended, their contributions to the British entertainment industry continue to inspire and impact audiences to this day. Each one faced their own personal challenges, and their journeys—both on-screen and off-screen—serve as a testament to their resilience and enduring legacies.

For fans of Coronation Street, the passing of these stars marks the end of an era. Yet, the characters they portrayed will forever live on in the hearts of viewers around the world. As we remember these talented performers, we reflect not only on their careers but also on the moments they shared with us through the magic of television.