A Coronation Street icon is set to be killed off in a dramatic twist airing next year.
Sue Devaney, who has portrayed Debbie Webster since 1984, will depart the show in a storyline that sees her character diagnosed with dementia. This heartbreaking plot will mark the end of a long-running role beloved by fans,
A source told the online publication: “It’s one of the show’s biggest storylines of the year, and a real chance for Sue to finally get her time in the spotlight – it will just be devastating for fans that it will effectively be her final storyline.
They added: “It’s one of many major storylines new boss Kate Brooks has in the bag, and there will not be a dry eye in the house.
“There is no doubt in the family that she will give the performance of a lifetime and make Debbie’s exit one to remember for years.”
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The character is beloved by many fans (Image: ITV)
Debbie Webster has been at the centre of many dramatic storylines over the years. She is known for being the owner of the Chariot Square Hotel and for her involvement with the evil businessman Ray Crosby.
Sue’s departure comes amid a wave of exits from , including Helen Worth and Sean Wilson, who was dropped from his role after returning to the set earlier this year. The exits are reportedly part of bosses’ ongoing changes, as the show continues to evolve.
Fans have been left heartbroken at the news. Taking to X – formerly Twitter – one disappointed fan wrote: “I don’t really watch much now. But when I do have it on, one of the few characters that makes me want to keep watching is Debbie Webster. Actually a crime that she’s leaving in this way.”
Viewers are not pleased (Image: ITV)
A second person chimed in: “Sue Devaney is a treasure. Debbie is one of the very few characters that are likeable and watchable. Ludicrous decision to write her out.”
“Can’t believe it’s been confirmed that Debbie Webster is set to get killed off in a new storyline in #. actually gutted as Sue Devaney is a good actress,” a third person commented.
Meanwhile, fans have theorised who is set to replace Debbie in her role as a hotel manager on the soap. On a fan page on Facebook, someone chimed in: “Who will run the Chariot Square when she’s gone?” One person chimed in: “Maybe Carla will buy it, she has an expanding property empire.”
Another fan speculated: “Rosie! Which ties in with her return,” while another viewer couldn’t help but write: “I can see this happening!”
The Express has reached out to ITV for comment.