Yes, Maureen Lipman, who plays Evelyn Plummer on Coronation Street, is set to take a break from the ITV soap this year. She plans to step away temporarily to focus on other projects and commitments. Fans will certainly miss her character’s presence on the cobbles during her absence, but she is expected to return after completing her other ventures.
Maureen Lipman, a beloved Coronation Street legend, has shared insights into the behind-the-scenes atmosphere of the soap as she prepares for a break from the drama of Weatherfield. Maureen Lipman, known for her role as Evelyn Plummer, first appeared on the cobbles 22 years ago as Lillian Spencer, hired by Fred Elliott (portrayed by John Savident) at the Rovers Return.
In her reflections, Maureen likely highlighted the camaraderie and challenges of working on such a long-running and iconic show. Her character Evelyn Plummer has become a fan favorite, known for her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude. Fans will miss her presence during her hiatus, but her contributions to the show have undoubtedly left a lasting impact.
Yes, Maureen Lipman made a significant return to Coronation Street in 2018 as Evelyn Plummer, the long-lost grandmother of Tyrone Dobbs (played by Alan Halsall). Since her comeback, Maureen has been candid about the challenges of working on the soap, noting that it is “a tough job” due to the lack of rehearsal time available now.
The fast-paced nature of soap opera production often requires actors to quickly adapt to new scripts and scenes with minimal preparation. Despite these challenges, Maureen has delivered memorable performances, endearing her character to fans. Her experience and dedication continue to shine through, even as she prepares to take a temporary break from the show.
Maureen Lipman shared her insights on how the production dynamics of Coronation Street have evolved over the years. She revealed:
“It didn’t use to be like that. Coronation Street used to have a fully planned-out run by producers, but now you’re in and out. I mean, it sorts the weak from the strong, because you’ve got to be able to do that. It’s pretty scary when you start, but it’s fine, it’s good for you. As a young actor, you’ve got to be on fire, and as a writer, you’ve got to be pretty quick off the mark, and sometimes it could be better.”
This reflects the fast-paced and demanding environment of soap operas today, requiring actors and writers to be highly adaptable and quick-thinking. Despite the challenges, Maureen acknowledges that this process can be beneficial, particularly for young actors and writers, pushing them to deliver their best under pressure.
The 78-year-old Maureen Lipman mentioned that while the hectic schedule of Coronation Street doesn’t allow much time for socializing away from the scenes, she has formed close bonds with her fellow cast members. She is particularly friendly with David Neilson, who plays Roy Cropper; Alan Halsall, her on-screen grandson Tyrone Dobbs; and Jennie McAlpine, who plays Fizz.
She added in an interview with Best Magazine:
“They’re a nice group of people but I don’t see them socially, unless maybe David or Alan.”
This highlights the camaraderie and friendships formed on set, even if the opportunities to socialize outside of work are limited due to the demanding nature of their roles.
Maureen Lipman shared more about the off-screen life of Coronation Street cast members, noting:
“There is no social life at Coronation Street. Everyone goes home to their kids and their mortgages, but it’s still a family,” she reported to the Mirror.
When she’s not working on the famous cobbles, Maureen enjoys spending time with her new partner David Turner, whom she met through mutual friends, and her beloved children and grandchildren. She expressed her gratitude, saying:
“I’m very lucky that I’ve got my kids and grandkids and I’ve got a lovely man in my life, so what’s to complain about,” she gushed to the publication.
Later this year, Maureen will likely have more time with her loved ones as she takes on a dazzling new pantomime role in “Beauty and the Beast,” offering her a well-deserved break from the soap’s demanding schedule.
Maureen Lipman will be sharing the stage with Pete Firman for a four-week run in “Beauty and the Beast,” which will mean a brief break from her role in Weatherfield. A Coronation Street spokeswoman confirmed:
“Dame Maureen is taking a sabbatical from Coronation Street towards the end of the year. We look forward to seeing her back on the cobbles in 2025.”
Maureen herself expressed her excitement about the pantomime gig, saying:
“They asked me to do Panto and I said ‘Oh no I can’t’. They said ‘OH YES YOU CAN’.”
This playful exchange highlights her enthusiasm for the upcoming role and her readiness to embrace this new opportunity. Fans can look forward to her return to Coronation Street in 2025 after her panto stint.
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