Coronation Street Celebrates 65 Years: Barbara Knox Steals the Spotlight in Magical ‘Audience With’ Event
A Night of Nostalgia for Corrie Fans
Coronation Street has always been more than just a soap. For millions, it’s a tradition passed down through generations. From the drama of the Duckworths to the menace of Richard Hillman, the cobbles of Weatherfield have delivered stories that gripped the nation.
Now, as the show marks 65 years, An Audience With Coronation Street brings the history, laughter, and heart of the soap straight to its loyal fans. Hosted by This Morning’s soap expert Sharon Marshall, the event gathers beloved stars, unforgettable clips, and personal stories from the cast.
For Corrie fans in Salford Quays’ The Lowry, just minutes from the real set, it felt like stepping right into Weatherfield.
Stars Share Memories and Laughter
Jack P. Shepherd kicked off the afternoon to cheers, entering the stage to The Wannadies’ You & Me Song — the same track used in Richard Hillman’s infamous canal scene. He joked about once “hating” the choice but admitted it grew on him. Jack also revealed that his character, David Platt, almost didn’t survive past 2007. Writers planned to kill him off, but a powerful scene with Gail Platt redeemed him and saved his place on the Street.
Next came Julia Goulding, who plays Shona Platt. A self-confessed Corrie superfan, Julia delighted the crowd with playful anecdotes, including her on-screen crush on Simon Gregson’s Steve McDonald. Her lighthearted banter, mixed with behind-the-scenes tales, kept the audience laughing.
Rob Mallard, who plays Daniel Osbourne, followed with stories about auditioning as “the Ken factor,” comparing his hair quiff to William Roache’s. He even demonstrated his “creaky knees,” which hilariously interrupted a tense hospital scene with Charlotte Jordan (Daisy Midgeley).
Samia Longchambon (Maria Windass) shared her childhood impression of Corrie’s Phyllis Pearce — a performance that led to drama school and, eventually, the cobbles. Clips of her early days with Andy Whyment (Kirk Sutherland) drew smiles and warm applause.
Barbara Knox Brings the House Down
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly Barbara Knox MBE, the legendary Rita Tanner. Draped in a golden cape, Barbara admitted she felt nervous but was quickly embraced by the cheers of the crowd.
Reflecting on her first appearance in 1964, she spoke fondly of working alongside icons like Violet Carson. With humor and wit, she shared memories of her long friendship with Thelma Barlow, who played Mavis Wilton. The two even got banned from rummaging through scarves during a shopping trip — a story that had the audience roaring with laughter.
Barbara’s warmth shone through as she praised Jack P. Shepherd’s acting talent and reminisced about decades of storytelling. The crowd responded with affection, knowing they were witnessing a living legend celebrate her golden years.
A Celebration of Past and Future
The evening ended with playful nostalgia. Samia donned a Bet Lynch wig, Julia wore Jack Duckworth’s taped glasses, and Jack P. Shepherd carried Fred Elliott’s famous meat cleaver. Together, the cast brought iconic Corrie moments back to life.
Finally, Sharon Marshall surprised Barbara with flowers. Standing arm in arm with her fellow cast members, Barbara led the audience in a heartfelt rendition of We’ll Meet Again. The theatre erupted into cheers and a standing ovation.
A Night to Remember
An Audience With Coronation Street wasn’t just a celebration of 65 years of television history — it was a love letter to the fans. From long-serving legends to newer faces, every story, every laugh, and every memory reminded the audience why Coronation Street remains a national treasure.
For Barbara Knox, who summed it up best with her words, “I was so lucky,” it was a night of gratitude and joy. For the fans, it was proof that the magic of Weatherfield is as strong today as it was in 1960.