Several Coronation Street favourites have been spotted out and about on Canal Street, and they’re clearly having a ball. All we see is big laughs, emotional moments, and a few surprise faces. But the question is what exactly is going on?
Corrie’s Connection to Canal Street Goes Way Back
Long-time Corrie viewers will remember that this isn’t the first time the show has visited Manchester’s famous Canal Street. Known as the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, the area has featured in other popular shows too like Queer as Folk, Bob and Rose, and Cucumber, all written by Russell T Davies. Coronation Street used to film there more regularly back in the 2000s. But the last time the Weatherfield gang made an appearance on-screen was way back in 2013.
That changed last year when ITV confirmed they had to pull out of the Pride parade because of budget cuts. Still, Corrie legend Barbara Knox, kept the show’s spirit alive by performing show tunes live on the Alan Turing Stage. She also received a ‘Your Manchester Icon’ award from drag performer Belinda Scandal and Deputy Lieutenant Mark Llewellin, who was the partner of late Corrie actor Roy Barraclough, known for playing Alec Gilroy.
Coronation Street Filming Returns to Canal Street After 12 Years
Now, after more than a decade, the Coronation Street cast and crew have returned to Canal Street to film a new set of scenes. Photos from the location show a group of characters walking down the street, laughing and joking. Next, they head into Bar Pop, which has been made over to look like a fictional pub for the show.
Sean Tully and Todd Grimshaw are front and centre, joined by Mary Taylor, who looks delighted to be part of it. They’re also seen with Theo Silverton and James Bailey, who’ve both been involved in a storyline that’s shaping into a love triangle.
With Todd stuck between Theo and James in recent episodes, fans will no doubt be wondering if this night out adds fuel to the fire. Whether it’s flirty tension or a messy fallout, something’s definitely brewing.
Also spotted in the group are Glenda Shuttleworth and Christina Boyd, who’s already made news since coming back. Everyone looks like they’re in high spirits, and the excitement around the set suggests something big is about to happen.
Pride Vibes and Big Emotions On Set
While ITV hasn’t confirmed the exact reason for this storyline trip to Canal Street, the background details offer strong clues. In one sweet moment caught on camera, Mary is seen wiping away a tear as Glenda tries on a cowboy hat. So it’s not just about partying; there’s a bit of heart in it too.
Behind the scenes, production staff were hard at work keeping the area clear. There were security stopping fans from getting too close and a crew member taking continuity shots on a tablet. Coronation Street usually films six to eight weeks in advance, which means these scenes will likely air around Manchester Pride in late August. That timing makes sense, especially given the location and atmosphere on set.
We still don’t know exactly what brings the Weatherfield bunch together for this moment. But whether it’s love, friendship, or celebration, it’s bound to come with a few twists and turns. For all the latest Coronation Street spoilers, returns, and behind-the-scenes scoops, stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily.