Anne Kirkbride is set to quit her role as Deirdre Barlow in Coronation Street, it has been claimed.
The actress has played the character for over 40 years but took a three-month break from the show late last year due to “personal issues”.
She had been due to return to the Street but has reportedly asked producers to extend her absence while she considers her future on the show.
Fellow cast member Marc Baylis, who plays Rob Donovan, said that the actress had taken some time out as a result of exhaustion.
“There’s been a lot of material in the Barlow household. It involves long days of filming at least four days a week. It’s been exhausting, physically and mentally. Anyone of Anne’s calibre deserves a break. I’m looking forward to a rest – it’s been a huge challenge.”
However, The Sun is claiming that show insiders are unsure if the veteran actress will return.
“While she loves the show, she finds it very draining. In the weeks before she was written out, she would break down on set, crying that she couldn’t cope. She’s become increasingly worried about filming scenes with lots of people. Bosses tried to help but she’s still found it tough.”
