Coronation Street's Tina O'Brien details emotional exit which was ‘really hard’ to watch

Over the years, Tina O’Brien of Coronation Street has been at the center of some of the most terrifying plots in the soap opera.

This month marks Tina O’Brien’s 25th year as Sarah Platt on Coronation Street, where she first appeared in 1999 at the age of 16.

She has played a major role in several dramatic plots over the years, such as those involving an unplanned teenage pregnancy, internet grooming, passionate relationships, and tragic miscarriages.

Along with saying farewell to a number of close characters, she will soon be leaving Weatherfield, including her on-screen mother Gail Platt (played by Helen Worth).

The Platt family bid a final goodbye to Uncle Stephen Reid (Todd Boyce) a year ago, and fans witnessed the malevolent figure meet a horrific end.

Viewers witnessed the Canadian entrepreneur go on a violent spree on the cobblestones in 2023 and then try to flee as his misdeeds caught up with him.

The villagers watched in horror as Jenny Connor (Sally Ann Matthews) was held captive, worrying for her safety.

But in order to save Jenny, Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) ran over Stephen, which caused him to escape the street in a body bag.

The impact of witnessing her on-screen grandma Audrey Roberts (Sue Nicholls) witness her son’s death was discussed by actress Tina O’Brien last year, as well as her poignant farewell moments.

The soap star said, “She always does, I mean there was a scene on the street when she’s crying at the end,” in response to the question of if Sue’s performance moved her.

“It was incredibly difficult for me to watch; the filming was lengthy, and by the end, you’re kind of giddy. And then to see Sue, who is really incredible and such a professional.

Indeed, it has been quite depressing to witness; it simply proves that she is one of those individuals who can accomplish anything. She is capable of comedy, but when it comes to sensitive subjects, she can really hit you in the breast.”

Unfortunately, the Platt family is getting ready to bid goodbye to Gail once more with much sadness.

Although the long-running character’s leaving date has not yet been confirmed, ITV executives have stated it will occur at the end of the current year.

Could Jesse Chadwick (John Thomson), who has been absent from the soap opera for 15 years, have anything to do with Gail’s departure given that he recently revealed a hidden bond with her?

“This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world,” Helen stated in reference to her departure.

“I met with the producers at the beginning of the year and made the decision; they were really understanding and nice. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have worked with outstanding performers, directors, and crew members, as well as to have consistently been offered the most amazing screenplays.

“The past 50 years have flown by and I don’t think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet.”