A Soap Icon Reflects on Her Future

Sally Dynevor has been a fixture on Coronation Street for nearly four decades, but even she admits that her time on the cobbles is never guaranteed. Best known for playing Sally Metcalfe since 1986, the beloved actress opened up about her contract — and why she never takes her place on the show for granted.

Speaking on Matt Lucas and David Walliams’ podcast Making a Scene, Sally confirmed that she, like all her co-stars, works on a year-by-year contract. “I’m only contracted for a year,” she explained. “All of us. You always think, ‘This is the year…’ None of us are indispensable. There are always other people and other stories to be told.”

When Will Sally’s Contract End?

Pressed on when her current deal runs out, Sally revealed that her future will be decided soon. “Mine is at the end of January,” she admitted, adding that older cast members usually find out between November and January whether their contracts will be renewed. Laughing, she told Matt and David: “You don’t get much notice!”

The revelation means that, technically, Sally’s time on Coronation Street could end before she celebrates an extraordinary milestone — 40 years in Weatherfield in 2026.

Hopes for the Future

Despite the uncertainty of contracts, Sally has made no secret of her desire to remain part of the soap for as long as possible. Speaking earlier this year, she said: “I’m not a retiring person. I want to keep working, it’s good for my brain. So, if they still want me, maybe I’ll be in the show in my 70s and 80s. I’ll just keep going.”

She added that, even after decades, the role still brings her joy. “I’m not in it as much as I used to be, but I drove in the other day and, as the barrier went up, I just had this huge smile because it felt like I was home.”

Life Beyond the Cobbles

Turning 60 in 2023 gave Sally a new sense of freedom and balance. “I’m really enjoying this time of my life. In your 60s, you can just be yourself. You don’t have to worry about all those things that younger people fret about.”

She now enjoys a steady routine between filming, fitness, and family time. “On a day off, I’ll go to the gym or for a swim in the morning, then come back and have breakfast. I might go for a walk, and afterwards I’ll meet a friend.”

What’s Next for Sally?

Whether she’s working on new storylines or enjoying time away from the set, Sally Dynevor’s passion for Coronation Street remains clear. With her 40th anniversary looming, fans are hoping ITV will keep the iconic actress at the heart of Weatherfield for many more years to come.