She portrayed Sarah Platt’s closest friend.
Nikki Sanderson has hinted at the possibility of returning to Coronation Street – 20 years after her departure.
The actress portrayed hairdresser Candice Stowe on the ITV soap from 1999 to 2005. After leaving, she went on to play Maxine Minniver in the rival soap Hollyoaks from 2012 to 2025.
Now, following the announcement of her exit from Hollyoaks, Nikki has teased that a return to Corrie might be in the works…

Nikki Sanderson teases Coronation Street return
In a recent interview, Nikki described her departure from Hollyoaks as “an incredibly difficult decision.”
“It wasn’t a decision I made quickly or overnight; it took me a long time to come to terms with, and I really wrestled with it. But I’m fortunate to have been able to speak to those around me and get their advice,” she shared with OK!.
When asked about the possibility of returning to Corrie, Nikki gave a rather mysterious reply.

‘You just never know’
“I have a great fondness for Candice and Coronation Street, so I’d never rule out a return if they wanted me back in the future. That’s the exciting part of doing what I do,” she explained.
The actress continued, “You just never know what opportunities might come up next.”
Candice on Coronation Street
Nikki was part of several significant storylines while playing Candice on Coronation Street.
She was Sarah Platt’s (Tina O’Brien) best friend and also the godmother to Sarah’s daughter, Bethany (Lucy Fallon).
Candice also had multiple unsuccessful relationships during her time in Weatherfield, including romances with Nick Tilsley (Ben Price) and brothers Jason Grimshaw (Ryan Thomas) and Todd (Bruno Langley).
Nikki on quitting Hollyoaks after 13 years
After deciding to leave Hollyoaks, Nikki told the publication that she has “to accept the uncertainty of not knowing what’s next.”
The TV star also revealed that turning 40 last year influenced her choice.
“I know I’m getting older, and time is moving quickly, but I want to embrace it and feel excited about my forties,” she said.
“I’m more confident and at ease with who I am than I was before, and I want to make the most of whatever exciting opportunities come my way,” Nikki added.
- James Patrick Stuart on Returning to General Hospital
- General Hospital Spoilers 3/27/25: “I’ve Got a Lead”
- General Hospital Spoilers: Week Of March 31- Unraveling the Car Wreck Aftermath – Kristina’s Guilt and Lucky’s Dark Secret
- General Hospital Spoilers: Nina Reeves Needs A Romance – 4 Possible Love Interests
- General Hospital Spoilers: Lucas Isn’t the Only Person Who’ll Cross Paths with Marco Soon