Turning 40 is a landmark—and for Coronation Street actress Julia Goulding, it proved to be a birthday full of warmth, friendship, and glowing tributes from her nearest co-stars. The actress, who has played Shona Platt for years, celebrated the milestone not only with a party but also with warm messages from her co-stars, who evidently love her.
Georgia Taylor Heads Up the Emotional Birthday Tributes
Georgia Taylor, better known to viewers as Toyah Battersby, was among the first to publicly congratulate Julia. Posting a carousel of private photos of the two of them together, Georgia called Julia “an absolute rock star” and said she was the perfect dressing room companion she could have ever asked for. Georgia said Julia makes her happy every single day and really “lights up her life.”
The birthday affection did not cease there. Jack P. Shepherd, the actor who portrays Julia’s television spouse, David Platt, left a sweet and straightforward homage through his Instagram stories. He included a selfie of Julia accompanied by a cozy”Happy birthday, Mrs Platt.” And it wasn‘t just the long-standing cast members who got in on the act.
Coronation Street: Julia Looks Back on Long-Term Friendships and a Joy-Filled Birthday
New cast member Farrel Hegarty recently signed up for the soap as Lou Michaelis—a problematic neighbour on screen—also turned to Instagram to share a cheeky photo of the pair out for the night. She sent Julia a “Happy 40th” and described her as a “gorgeous human,” stating her love for her pal.
The parties were not limited to social media circles. Julia had previously organized a birthday party to celebrate the day, and Ferrell was in the midst of it. While discussing their friendship, Julia revealed that she and Farrell have a long history. She said that they have been friends for almost twenty years.
Farrell had gone to drama school with Julia‘s Manchester best friend, and when Julia herself went to London for her own drama school experience, their cliques blended. She reminisced about those initial days as belonging to a huge, good-humored gang. For Julia, having Farrell now on Corrie feels fantastic.
Julia also shared with fans how her family celebrated her special day. In a lighthearted Instagram post, she posted a picture of a cake with candles covering it entirely. She joked that the 40 candles nearly set off a fire, saying that her man “nearly set the house on fire.”
From tight-knit cast members to friends and family for life, Julia‘s 40th birthday evidently wasn‘t all about cake and candles—it was about love, appreciation, and being around people who truly care. We will keep you posted about Julia’s upcoming storyline next. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily!
