The ITV soap series Coronation Street will bid farewell to the long-serving performer Helen Worth, who has played the role of Gail Rodwell. Formerly, the character was known as Gail Platt. The veteran actress has played the role for fifty years.
Some of the most significant plotlines in the history of Coronation Street can be found in Worth's plots. Her character, Gail, was once pushed down the stairs after taking her son's girlfriend to an abortion clinic.
Another time, she was mistakenly jailed on suspicion of murder after her husband's attempt to fake his death went wrong.
Additionally, she supported her daughter, who was 13 years old at the time, when she became pregnant. This plotline caused much controversy when it was broadcast in 2000.
Why is Helen Worth retiring from her role as Gail on Coronation Street?
Worth debuted as Gail in 1974 and is celebrating her golden anniversary this month, on the show. She has mentioned that having completed 50 years in Coronation Street, she feels this is the right time for her to step away from the role.
She will step down at the end of the year following what ITV has described as a "major storyline for the Platt family." The showrunners have confirmed that the exit will be a satisfying one and Worth's character will not be killed off.
"This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating fifty years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street," the actress remarked to ITV.
Fans and coworkers have shown much respect and love for her after the news of her exit was announced. Executive producer of Coronation Street, Iain Macleod, called her a "legend" and an "icon," pointing out how important she was to many of the most important parts of the show.
Macleod praised how she played Gail, who is a unique character with a life riddled with troubles and struggles, mostly due to her bad marriages and complicated family relationships. These plotlines add both serious and comic elements to the show.
Key plotlines in Coronation Street that made Gail Rodwell popular
The fact that Gail's daughter, Sarah, became pregnant at the age of thirteen was one of the most noteworthy and contentious plot developments. When it was first shown in 1999, this storyline was both revolutionary and immensely contentious since it addressed teen pregnancy and its impact on families and communities.
The relationship that Gail had with Richard Hillman, a serial killer, is another chapter in her life that is both crucial and controversial. Instead of being a suave businessman, Richard turns out to be a killer who finally attempts to kill Gail and her family by driving them into a canal. Richard's plan was ultimately unsuccessful.
Another tragic story has Gail falsely imprisoned for the murder of her husband, Joe McIntyre. Joe's plot is equally dramatic; he tries to fake his death to ensure that his life insurance is paid out to Gail.
However, he ends up actually killing himself while carrying out his plan at Lake Windermere. Gail was ultimately acquitted of the criminal charges.
Gail's feud with Eileen Grimshaw also offers many interesting scenes. Their conflicts over their children's relationships often gave the show humorous but tense moments by highlighting the conflict and competition neighbours might experience.
Gail Rodwell to receive legendary exit from Coronation Street
29th July 2024 marked 50 years since her debut episode in Coronation Street and ITV shared a throwback video of her very first appearance on the show on the official social media handles. Fans poured in their responses, congratulating her on a major milestone that few soap opera actors have achieved.
As Worth prepares to exit Coronation Street, fans can expect a storyline honouring her character's legacy.
The show has promised an emotional farewell that will see Gail and the Platt family at the centre of a major storyline, that will feature her reunion with Martin (played by Sean Wilson) who is set to return after six years on the show.
Helen Worth’s retirement is not just the end of Gail Rodwell’s saga but a significant moment in television history. Her portrayal has left an indelible mark on Coronation Street, and her departure will be felt deeply by the show's loyal audience.
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For fans looking to keep up with the latest drama from Weatherfield, Coronation Street airs on ITV in the UK and is available for streaming on ITV Hub. Episodes can also be watched on BritBox in the United States.
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