Who is Claire Sweeney? Coronation Street Star and Ricky Hatton’s Former Girlfriend
A Star of Stage and Screen
Claire Sweeney is a celebrated British actress and television personality, best known for her role on the long-running soap Coronation Street. With a career spanning decades, she has made a name for herself in acting, singing, and musical theatre. From early roles in the 2000s to high-profile appearances on reality TV, Sweeney has remained a familiar face on British television, admired for her talent and charisma. Despite her public career, she has generally preferred to keep her personal life private.
The Secret Romance with Ricky Hatton
Fans were surprised to learn that Sweeney once shared a romantic connection with Ricky Hatton, the former world boxing champion famously nicknamed “The Hitman.” The relationship reportedly began quietly behind the scenes of Dancing on Ice, where both appeared as contestants. Although Hatton was eliminated early from the competition, followed shortly by Sweeney, the experience rekindled a friendship that had lasted over 25 years, which blossomed into a romantic bond.
Sources at the time noted that the pair “vibed” immediately on set, sparking chemistry that grew as the show went on. The couple initially kept their romance under wraps, enjoying private dates and even a holiday together in Tenerife before appearing publicly at events. Their first public appearances together included the Co-op Live welcome ceremony and the Sedulo Colour Ball in 2024, where their relationship became more visible to fans.
A Relationship That Ended, But Friendship Remained
Although their romantic relationship did not last, Sweeney and Hatton remained on good terms. Claire later emphasized that there were no hard feelings and that they continued to maintain a friendship after their brief romance ended. For Sweeney, the connection with Hatton was one chapter in a long, busy life—both as a performer and as someone who experienced a meaningful relationship with a high-profile figure.
Claire Sweeney’s Career Highlights
Claire Sweeney’s professional journey is impressive. She gained early fame for her acting in Coronation Street and went on to develop a robust career in musical theatre and television. Her versatility as a singer and actress has earned her critical praise and a loyal fanbase. Over the years, she has appeared in a wide range of roles, solidifying her status as a household name in the UK entertainment scene.
Her work on Dancing on Ice showcased a different side of her talents, blending performance with competition and connecting her to a broader audience. It was in this setting that her personal life intersected with that of Ricky Hatton, adding a layer of public curiosity to her otherwise private life.
The Legacy of the Connection
The recent news of Ricky Hatton’s untimely death at the age of 46 has brought renewed attention to his past relationships, including the brief but notable romance with Claire Sweeney. While their time together was short, it was a meaningful part of both their lives. For Hatton, it highlighted another side of the champion boxer beyond the ring; for Sweeney, it remains part of her personal history alongside a career filled with professional accomplishments.
Though their romantic flame extinguished, the friendship endured, underscoring Sweeney’s ability to maintain personal bonds even amid the pressures of fame and public scrutiny. The story reminds fans of the humanity behind celebrity relationships, showing that even high-profile figures experience ordinary connections, love, and friendship.