Coronation Street viewers were left stunned after learning the real name of soap legend Helen Worth. The television favourite first graced the cobbles in 1974, taking on the role of Gail Platt and quickly becoming one of the show's most cherished and iconic figures. Moreover, Gail, who has been notoriously unlucky in love, has been at the heart of some of the soap's most dramatic storylines.
Her tumultuous romantic history includes five husbands, four of whom have tragically passed away. Notably, her entanglement with Richard Hillman, who attempted to murder her and her entire family in 2003, is unforgettable. For her portrayal of Gail, Helen was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Inside Soap Awards in 2006, and again at the British Soap Awards 2014, marking her 40th year on the programme.
However, earlier this year, it was announced that Helen would be leaving the soap after a remarkable 50-year stint. Her exit was confirmed in June, with the initial departure storyline set to feature Gail's ex-husband Martin Platt, played by Sean Wilson. Yet, it was reported that Sean had departed the show - despite having already filmed several weeks' worth of scenes.
Consequently, the soap brought back former star John Thomson, who portrays Jesse Chadwick, to play a part in Gail's farewell. Fans of the soap were left gobsmacked this week as it emerged that Coronation Street legend Helen Worth is not all she appears the actress, famed for her long-standing role as Gail .