A hard-hitting storyline will play out on screen
Sally Dyvenor has been part of Coronation Street for almost four decades(Image: ITV)
Sally Dyvenor has sent her support to Sue Devaney as she embarks on a powerful storyline on the ITV soap. Sue will bid farewell to her character Debbie Webster after she was diagnosed with vascular dementia – a degenerative condition that causes a decline in thinking, memory, and reasoning skills.
Debbie first graced the Cobbles in 1984 as Kevin’s sister, played by Michael Le Vell. After departing in 1985, she made a dramatic comeback in 2019. Taking the reins of the Chariot Square hotel not long ago, Debbie has quickly become a beloved character with viewers.
The next few months will see Debbie embark on her own health journey as she comes to terms with the diagnosis and what it will mean for her and her family. In recent episodes, Debbie was forced to finally reveal her secret to Abi and Kevin, who have offered their support.
Sue Devaney has been supported by her Coronation Street co-stars(Image: ITV)
Over the weekend, Sue Devaney shared a statement on Instagram as she discussed her “important” storyline. She wrote: “At the moment I am playing Debbie in Corrie, and my character has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia.
“This story is such an important one to tell and shows how it truly does take a society to beat dementia. Alzheimer’s Society is a proud partner of @CoronationStreet, highlighting that help is available every step of the way… thank you so much if you’re watching and joining me on Debbie’s journey @alzheimerssoc.”
A number of Sue’s Coronation Street co-stars added to the comment to support the star on her grueling storyline. Sally Dyvenor, who portrays Sally Metcalfe on the soap, wrote: “You are wonderful Sue. Love you xxxx.”
Gareth Pierce, who plays Todd Grimshaw said: “Subtle, brilliant and truthful every step of the way. Big love, Sue.” Cait Fitton who plays Lauren Bolton also added: “And you’re doing it sensationally.”
Vinta Morgan who plays Ronnie Bailey added red love heart emojis while Sally Carmen who portrays Abi Webster said: “I love you my beautiful, wonderful friend x.”
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Several Coronation Street fans also rushed to the comments on social media. One said: “You’re doing an incredible job!!” and another wrote: “Well it must have been difficult playing this part but you are an amazing actress. Well done Sue.”
Soap fans have not been afraid to express their disappointment over the character’s heartbreaking departure. Sue recently opened up about her exit storyline in an interview with Lorraine.
The 57-year-old actress spoke about the “slow burn” storyline of Debbie’s journey living with dementia. The actress hopes to help other people start the conversation.
Speaking about the hard-hitting storyline, she said: “I didn’t know a lot about it [dementia] and it’s only now that it’s brought it to me, what it’s about and also the different kids of dementia.”
Viewers have two more years of Debbie gracing our screens. Sue said: “I love playing her she’s outrageous.” The soap star added: “The story is going to go on well into 2027 so Debbie’s not going anywhere.”
Coronation Street producers are working closely with Dementia UK on this long-term storyline which will explore the effects of young-onset dementia on Debbie and those close to her.
Sue Devaney has spoken about her character’s fate, as she said: “It is an honour and privilege to be given this sort of storyline. A lot of people are saying, Why give it to Debbie? She’s so vibrant, and she’s so full of life.
“But I think that is where a good story lies because it’s somebody that has everything, and also words are important to Debbie. She has a quick wit, and everything is so important – money and success. She’s been dealt this hand of this illness, and it is going to be interesting to follow her journey.”
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1