Coronation Street Icon Sally Ann Matthews Exits After 39 Years

Sally Ann Matthews, who has played Jenny Connor on Coronation Street for nearly 40 years, announced her departure from the ITV soap after unexpectedly extending her role from a planned five months to a decade. Matthews expressed gratitude for the memories and laughter, noting it is now time to pursue other acting roles she had hoped to play. Her exit follows a series of departures of other key cast members, including Sue Devaney and Helen Worth, stirring concern among fans about the future of legacy characters on the show. Reports suggest the decision was story-led by the producers, with Matthews reportedly devastated by the news, especially following previous frustrations voiced on social media. Fans and fellow actors, including Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies, have publicly expressed their sadness and support for Matthews. The soap is set to film her exit storyline soon, though specific plot details have not been disclosed.