Coronation Street fans have watched Debbie Webster’s journey take a heartbreaking turn in recent months, and now the actress behind the character has opened up about her time on the cobbles and the difficult reality of what lies ahead.
Debbie’s Worrying Symptoms
Earlier this year, viewers saw Debbie begin to panic about her memory after she noticed unusual lapses and growing confusion. Concerned, she arranged a consultation at a private clinic, fearing her issues might be linked to the menopause. But by the end of April, the situation escalated when doctors gave her a formal diagnosis. A neurologist explained that her condition had no available medication.
For longtime fans, the storyline carried added weight because Sue Devaney has played Debbie Webster since her teenage years. She first appeared in Coronation Street more than forty years ago, and her return in recent years cemented her as a familiar face in Weatherfield once again. Now, with the diagnosis, her character faces an uncertain road, and viewers know it will eventually lead to a permanent departure from the soap.
Coronation Street: Sue Speaks Out On Her Exit
At the National Television Awards, Sue revealed that she had been content working at Corrie. She explained that she had just married last year and didn’t want to tour anymore, so being on the show felt like the next best thing to a normal job where she could spend time with friends. But she added that life often “pulls you another way,” and when the producers offered her the storyline, she recognised it as an opportunity to really act.
She stressed that she loved her time at Corrie and had hoped to remain longer, but producer Kate Oates made it clear that the storyline required Debbie to take this path. Sue admitted she reflected on her role as an actor and decided she wanted to embrace the challenge. Although fans know Debbie’s exit is coming, Sue has reassured them that it won’t be immediate.
What Comes Next
Speaking previously on Lorraine Kelly’s show, the 57-year-old confirmed that Debbie will stay on-screen for the foreseeable future. She explained that the plan was to show the diagnosis first and then take viewers through the long journey of living with dementia. She insisted that her character is “not going anywhere yet” and revealed that the story would continue well into 2027.
Her words gave fans comfort, as it means they will still see plenty of Debbie’s presence on the cobbles. It also highlights Coronation Street’s commitment to telling the story with sensitivity and realism over an extended period. For now, Sue remains devoted to the role and to portraying such a serious issue. And while the news of her eventual exit has saddened many, she is determined to give the storyline everything. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest Coronation Street news and updates.