23 Coronation Street Actors: Cast Then and Now, What Happened to the Actors in 2025?

Coronation Street, a cherished British soap opera that has been gracing our screens since 1960, is renowned for its rich history and unforgettable characters. Over the years, many iconic stars have made their mark on the show. However, some of these beloved actors have sadly passed away or moved on from the spotlight. This article will take you on a journey through 23 talented performers, their roles, their impact on the show, and what has happened to them since their time on Coronation Street.

1. Kirkbride’s Lasting Legacy: A Heartfelt Farewell

Anne Kirkbride, who portrayed the beloved Deirdre Barlow, was a cornerstone of Coronation Street from 1972 until her tragic passing in 2015. Deirdre’s complex relationships and heartaches mirrored Anne’s own struggles, including a difficult marriage and health battles. Anne’s death, at the age of 60, was caused by breast cancer that had spread to her brain. Her net worth at the time was estimated at $1.5 million, and her legacy still resonates with fans today.

2. Johnny Briggs: Mike Baldwin’s Iconic Role

Johnny Briggs, who played Mike Baldwin from 1974 to 2006, was known for his complicated business dealings and relationships. Briggs’ personal life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of a son and a divorce, but his strong career and charismatic presence on screen left a lasting impact on the show. He passed away in 2021 from COVID-19 complications at the age of 85, leaving behind a net worth of around $3 million.

3. William Tarmey: Jack Duckworth’s Loyalty

William Tarmey, who portrayed the lovable Jack Duckworth from 1976 to 2010, had a long-running success on Coronation Street. Despite his fame, William faced health struggles and heart problems in his later years. His net worth was approximately $1 million, and he passed away in 2012 at the age of 71. Tarmey’s portrayal of Jack Duckworth continues to be a fan favorite.

4. Betty Driver: The No-Nonsense Betty Turpin

Betty Driver’s portrayal of Betty Turpin was a staple of Coronation Street from 1969 to 2011. Known for her wit and non-nonsense attitude, Betty’s off-screen life was filled with struggles, including financial difficulties and heartbreak. She passed away in 2011 at the age of 91 from pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy that fans still fondly remember.

5. Liz Dawn: The Beloved Vera Duckworth

Liz Dawn’s portrayal of Vera Duckworth was an integral part of Coronation Street from 1972 to 2008. Liz, like her character, faced personal battles, including health issues and family struggles. She passed away in 2017 due to empyema at the age of 77, leaving behind a net worth of approximately $1 million.

6. Roy Barraclough: Alec Gilroy’s Theatrical Charm

Roy Barraclough, who played Alec Gilroy from 1965 to 1998, was known for his charming yet occasionally shady character. Despite his fame, Roy faced personal challenges, including a troubled marriage and the loss of family members. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 81 from natural causes, leaving behind an estate valued at around $1 million.

7. Dorine Kio: Cona Hwit’s Cheerful Legacy

Dorine Kio, who portrayed Cona Hwit from 1960 to 1975, was a beloved figure on Coronation Street. Her personal life, however, was less publicly known, marked by a troubled marriage and a career decline after leaving the show. Dorine passed away in 2017 at the age of 93, with an estate valued at around $1 million.

8. Brian Mosley: Alf Roberts’ Enduring Presence

Brian Mosley, known for his role as Alf Roberts, was a fixture on Coronation Street from 1961 to 1999. His character became a symbol of authority and compassion. Mosley passed away in 1999 at the age of 67 from a heart attack, leaving behind a net worth of approximately $1 million.

9. Jeffrey Hughes: Eddie Yates’ Mischievous Charm

Jeffrey Hughes portrayed Eddie Yates, the lovable bin man, from 1967 to 1983. Despite his on-screen success, Jeffrey faced personal struggles, including failed relationships and battles with alcohol. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 68 from prostate cancer, leaving behind a modest estate valued at $1 million.

10. Jean Alexander: Hilda Ogden’s Unforgettable Presence

Jean Alexander portrayed the fiery Hilda Ogden from 1962 to 1987, a character that remains iconic in Coronation Street’s history. Jean’s personal life, however, was marked by romantic failures and grief. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 90 from natural causes, leaving behind a net worth of approximately $1 million.

11. John Savident: Fred Elliott’s Larger-than-Life Persona

John Savident, who played Fred Elliott from 1994 to 2006, was known for his sharp wit and larger-than-life personality. Despite the fame, Savident faced emotional struggles, including a turbulent divorce. He passed away in 2024 at the age of 86, leaving behind an estate valued at $2 million.

12. Patricia Phoenix: Elsie Tanner’s Resilient Spirit

Patricia Phoenix portrayed Elsie Tanner from 1960 to 1984, captivating audiences with her strong, independent character. However, Patricia’s personal life was filled with heartache, including the loss of a child and struggles with lung cancer. She passed away in 1986 at the age of 62, leaving behind a net worth of $1 million.

13. Peter Armitage: Bill Webster’s Dedication

Peter Armitage, who played Bill Webster from 1977 to 2011, was a beloved figure on the show. Despite a troubled personal life, including a divorce and family losses, Peter continued to work in the public eye. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 79, leaving behind an estate worth $1 million.

14. Fred Feast: Fred G’s Warm-Hearted Legacy

Fred Feast, known for his portrayal of Fred G at the Rover’s Return, was part of Coronation Street from 1970 to 1984. His life was marred by personal struggles, including a troubled marriage and a battle with cancer. He passed away in 1999 at the age of 69 from cancer, with a modest estate valued at $500,000.

15. Eileen Derbyshire: Emily Bishop’s Quiet Strength

Eileen Derbyshire, who portrayed Emily Bishop from 1961 to 2016, became an icon of British television. Her personal life, though, was marked by the unexpected loss of her husband and close family members. Eileen, now 94, continues to enjoy a quiet life with a legacy worth $1 million.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Talent and Heartache

These 23 actors and their memorable roles have shaped Coronation Street into the beloved show it is today. From tragic passings to personal struggles, their stories remind us of the price of fame, the challenges faced by public figures, and the enduring love fans have for these unforgettable characters. As we look back at their legacies, we celebrate both their successes and the difficulties they overcame.