Helen Worth surprised by Corrie cast and crew after wrapping time on soap
Helen Worth received a heartfelt farewell from numerous cast and crew members of Coronation Street, who honored her as she prepared to leave the show after spending five decades on the iconic streets.
The 73-year-old actress spoke her final lines as her character, Gail Rodwell, while surrounded by her television family in the Platt household's living room.
In her departure plot that aired on Christmas Day, Gail made the choice to leave Weatherfield behind for a fresh start in France. This followed her joyful conclusion, as she tied the knot with Jesse Chadwick, portrayed by John Thomson.
In her last scene on screen, she was shown driving away from the cobblestones. However, since the show is filmed non-sequentially, the very last scene she actually filmed took place in Gail's house.
In a video posted by the ITV soap, Worth appears emotional as the cast and crew give her a round of applause following the director's cue to stop filming her final scene.
She expresses to the Coronation Street crew, “The main reason I’ve stayed here for so many years – and it’s quite a long time, more than I can really wrap my head around – is because of all of you. Some of you have been around for the full 50 years, while others have been here for at least half that time.”
"I truly couldn't have accomplished any of this without your support. It's impossible to overstate how incredible this team is, and I'm genuinely grateful for each one of you. Thank you so much!"
Speaking to her fellow cast members, she added, "And as for you guys who kept this from me… Oh my gosh, I care about you all so deeply."
"I’m unsure how I'll manage in your absence. Still, I really appreciate all you've done."
Actress Sue Nicholls, known for her role as Gail's mother, Audrey Roberts, then leads the group in giving three cheers for Worth, while the rest of the TV family looks on with heartfelt emotions.
Looking back on the unexpected event, her on-screen son, David Platt, portrayed by Jack P Shepherd, remarked: “It meant a lot to all of us to be present for her final scene and to give her the farewell she truly deserves.”
“All the other filming crews that were present that day paused their work, and a large crowd gathered to bid farewell.”
Helen Worth was taken aback by the cast and crew of Coronation Street following the conclusion of her last scene. (ITV/PA)
Gail's last storyline was filled with suspense when her deceased ex-husband, the notorious serial killer Richard Hillman, portrayed by Brian Capron, attempted to prevent her from tying the knot with Jesse.
Since joining the show in July 1974, Worth's character has played a significant role in many dramatic storylines over the years, with her troubled romantic relationships becoming a defining aspect of her journey.
Throughout her 50 years on the program, she has experienced numerous marriages and is the mother of three children: two sons, David and Nick, and a daughter named Sarah.
In a video posted on social media following the episode, Worth expressed, “It’s been an amazing 50 years, and I want to extend my gratitude to all of you—especially those who might have been tuning in for the full five decades. Is there anyone out there? And to those of you who have been watching for a shorter time, thank you as well.”
"Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I've truly enjoyed every moment of it. It's been an amazing experience!"
