‘Coronation Street’s Anne Kirkbride dies, aged 60
By Will Stroude
Coronation Street
star Anne Kirkbride has died, aged 60.
In a statement, ITV said the actress passed away peacefully in a Manchester hospital earlier today (January 19) following a short illness.
Kirkbride – who played iconic Weatherfield character Deidre Barlow for 43 years from 1972 – had been on a leave of absence from the soap since October, but was expected to return to the show later this month.
Tributes have been paid to the late star, with ITV’s Director of Television Peter Fincham crediting Anne for creating a “unique and unforgettable character” in Deidre Barlow, ITV reports.
He said: “Anne has been a truly loyal servant to Coronation Street since joining the programme in the early 1970s.
“She created a unique and unforgettable character in Deirdre Barlow and she’ll be greatly missed on and off screen.
“Our sincerest condolences to Anne’s husband David and her family at this very sad time.”
More to follow.
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